Cake mix cookies have become a favorite go-to treat for those who want to enjoy homemade cookies with minimal effort. By using a box of cake mix as a shortcut, you can create soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies in no time. This recipe is popular because it allows you to customize your cookies with various add-ins, making it easy to cater to different tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. Whether you’re baking for a party, school bake sale, or just a snack, cake mix cookies offer a delicious and versatile solution.
Ingredients
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1 box of cake mix (any flavor – chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, etc.)
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2 large eggs
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½ cup of vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer taste)
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1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
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Optional add-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, or dried fruit)
Possible Substitutions:
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For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
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If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all additional ingredients are gluten-free.
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For lower sugar, you can choose a sugar-free cake mix or reduce the amount of sugar you add.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined into a thick dough.
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Add any extras: If you’re adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins, fold them into the dough using a spatula.
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Form the cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls about 1-2 inches in diameter and place them on the baking sheet. Be sure to leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake.
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Cool down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t overmix the dough, as it can lead to tough cookies.
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Avoid overbaking; the cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Soft & Chewy Texture: For soft and chewy cookies, don’t overbake them. Underbaking slightly can result in a perfect chewy center.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Use room-temperature eggs to help the dough mix more evenly.
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Chill the Dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
Variations and Customizations
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and make sure your mix-ins are also gluten-free.
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Low-Carb: Try a sugar-free or low-carb cake mix, and replace the sugar with a low-carb sweetener like Stevia or erythritol.
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Fun Flavors: Play with flavor combinations by choosing different cake mix flavors like lemon, strawberry, or spice cake, and match them with corresponding add-ins (e.g., white chocolate chips for lemon).
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Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flax egg and use a vegan cake mix for a fully vegan version.
Serving Suggestions
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Serving Ideas: Serve these cake mix cookies with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
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Pairings: These cookies go great with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie):
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Calories: 140
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Protein: 1g
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Carbs: 20g
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Fats: 7g
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Sugar: 10g
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Fiber: 0g
Nutritional values are based on a typical recipe and may vary depending on the cake mix and add-ins used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use other types of cake mix?
Yes! You can use any flavor of cake mix, such as chocolate, vanilla, or even red velvet, to create a variety of delicious cookies.
Q2: How do I store the cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them on a baking sheet and bake as usual—no need to thaw!
Closing Thoughts
Cake mix cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that anyone can make, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner. Experiment with different cake mix flavors and add-ins to find your perfect combination. These cookies are sure to be a hit with friends and family! Don’t forget to share your baking results or ask questions if you need help.
