Cake Mix Cookies are a wonderfully simple treat that comes together fast and tastes like a little bit of cake and cookie magic all in one bite. Using a box of cake mix as the base, these cookies are soft, slightly chewy, and full of flavor—plus you can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to make them your own.
I love making these when I want an easy dessert that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or time. The cake mix does most of the work, so all you need to do is stir in a few extras and bake. It’s one of those recipes where I feel like I’m getting away with something because it’s so quick but still feels special.
My favorite way to serve them is warm right out of the oven with a glass of milk. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or packing in a lunchbox. Whenever I’m asked to bring cookies to a gathering, these always get the thumbs up because they’re soft, colorful if you add sprinkles, and just plain fun to eat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: This is the heart of the recipe. I like using white or yellow cake mix for a sweet, light flavor. If you prefer chocolate, that works too! Just expect a chocolatey cookie. Gluten-free cake mixes can be swapped in for dietary needs.
Butter: Softened unsalted butter adds richness and tenderness. If you’re short on butter, margarine or coconut oil are okay substitutes but can slightly change texture and flavor.
Egg: It binds the dough and gives the cookies structure. For an egg-free version, try a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flax + 3 Tbsp water) but the texture might be a bit different.
Vanilla Extract: A small but key ingredient for adding depth to the flavor. You can skip this if you don’t have any, but I recommend it for that classic cookie taste.
Rainbow Sprinkles: These bring color and fun. If you don’t have sprinkles, chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit work great too.
How Can I Make Sure My Cake Mix Cookies Stay Soft and Don’t Spread Too Much?
Getting that soft, thick cookie texture can be tricky when baking with cake mix. Here’s what helps me every time:
- Use softened butter, not melted. Softened means room temperature—this helps the dough hold its shape better.
- Don’t overmix once you add the dry cake mix. Mix until just combined to keep the dough light.
- Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls and space them a couple of inches apart. This avoids cookies merging as they bake.
- Bake just until the edges look set but the centers still look a little soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Following these tips should give you thick, soft cookies packed with sprinkles and a tender crumb. Letting them cool briefly on the baking sheet helps them finish cooking gently without becoming crispy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – provides a flat surface for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to mix all ingredients comfortably without spills.
- Hand mixer or wooden spoon – makes mixing the dough easy, but a spoon works fine if you prefer.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – helps you portion cookies evenly for consistent baking.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips – add classic melty chocolate for extra sweetness and texture.
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) – bring a nice crunch and deeper flavor.
- Mini M&Ms – fun, colorful, and candy-coated for extra texture and taste.
- Replace sprinkles with shredded coconut – adds a subtle chew and tropical twist.
How to Make Cake Mix Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white or yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8 to 10 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5 minutes for cooling. Overall, you’ll have fresh cookies ready in about 20 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Baking Sheet Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and egg until creamy. Then, add the cake mix and vanilla extract. Stir everything together with a hand mixer or spoon until the dough is soft and well combined.
3. Add the Sprinkles
Gently fold in the ½ cup of rainbow sprinkles, making sure they’re spread evenly through the dough for that pretty confetti effect.
4. Shape and Bake the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet. Space each about 2 inches apart so they don’t spread together. If you like, press a few extra sprinkles on top for a colorful touch. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges look set but the centers are still soft.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your soft, sweet, and festive cake mix cookies!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! You can use chocolate, red velvet, or any other cake mix you like. Just keep in mind the flavor of the mix will change the taste of your cookies.
How Should I Store Cake Mix Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins Instead of Sprinkles?
Yes! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit all make delicious additions. Just fold them in gently before baking.
What If I Don’t Have Butter?
You can substitute melted coconut oil or margarine in equal amounts. Keep in mind this might slightly change the flavor and texture of the cookies.
