How to make Cake Mix Cookies
If you ever find yourself craving cookies but are short on time and ingredients, then you’re in for a treat! Cake mix cookies are a whimsical and easy solution to satisfy your sweet tooth without the usual hassle of baking from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies that are sure to impress. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to make cake mix cookies, from the ingredients to the baking process, and even some fun variations.
Why This Recipe Works
Cake mix cookies are a game-changer for busy bakers or anyone looking for a quick dessert fix. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using cake mix as the base means you skip the measuring and mixing of flour, sugar, and leavening agents, allowing you to focus on the fun part: the add-ins! The result is a soft, chewy cookie that’s bursting with flavor, and you can customize it to fit your taste preferences.
Ingredient Rundown
To make these delightful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 113g unsalted butter (melted or softened): This adds richness and moisture to your cookies, creating a delightful texture.
- 15.25-ounce box cake mix (any flavor; see notes): The star of the show! Choose your favorite flavor to customize your cookies.
- 2 large eggs: These help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ structure.
- 1 cup mix-ins (see notes for variations): Get creative! Options include chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits.
Equipment Breakdown
Before you start baking, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Whisk or electric mixer: For mixing the batter smoothly.
- Baking sheet: A flat surface to place your cookies while they bake.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: To portion out your cookie dough evenly.
Mastering How to make Cake Mix Cookies: How-To
Follow these simple steps to create your cake mix cookies:
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare your baking sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or simply grease it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted or softened butter, the box of cake mix, and the eggs. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend until everything is fully combined and forms a thick dough.
Step 4: Add the mix-ins
Fold in your choice of mix-ins. Whether you’re going for chocolate chips, nuts, or a combination, make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Scoop the dough
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to mix up your cake mix cookies:
- Chocolate Cake Mix: Add chocolate chips for a double chocolate treat.
- Red Velvet Cake Mix: Incorporate white chocolate chips and crushed walnuts.
- Lemon Cake Mix: Add dried cranberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Funfetti Cake Mix: Toss in rainbow sprinkles for a festive touch.
Testing Timeline
When it comes to baking, timing is everything! Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
To ensure your cookies stay fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- Cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
- Storing: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Rewarming: For a warm treat, pop cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Common Questions
Can I use any flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! The beauty of cake mix cookies is their versatility. Choose any flavor that you love, and feel free to get creative with your mix-ins.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg in the recipe.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I make my cookies thicker?
To achieve thicker cookies, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. You can also reduce the amount of butter slightly for a firmer texture.
Desserts to Finish
If you love baking, here are some desserts that you might enjoy trying:
Hungry for More?
If you’re always on the lookout for quick and delicious recipes, don’t forget to explore more dessert ideas and baking tips. Whether it’s classic recipes or innovative twists, there’s a world of culinary delights just waiting for you to discover.
Baking cake mix cookies is not only simple but also a delightful way to create something delicious with minimal effort. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make these cookies a go-to recipe for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the sweet, warm, and inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. Happy baking!
How to make Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted or softened butter, the box of cake mix, and the eggs. Mix until fully combined and forms a thick dough.
- Fold in your choice of mix-ins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scoop.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look underbaked but will cook as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a warm treat, microwave cookies for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
