These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are a festive and easy way to create delicious holiday treats with minimal effort. By using a boxed cake mix, you can whip up a batch of soft, chewy cookies in no time—perfect for busy holiday schedules! These cookies are endlessly customizable with different mix-ins, colors, and decorations, making them a fun project for the whole family.
With a few simple ingredients, you can transform a regular cake mix into a delightful batch of cookies that are perfect for gifting, sharing at parties, or just enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire. Whether you want to add colorful sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even crushed candy canes, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or crushed candy canes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the holiday sprinkles and any additional mix-ins, such as white chocolate chips or crushed candy canes.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press down on each ball to slightly flatten it.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are just starting to crack.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional)
- Once the cookies are completely cool, you can drizzle them with melted white chocolate or add extra sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Cake Mix Flavor: You can use any flavor of cake mix for this recipe—vanilla, yellow, red velvet, or even chocolate. Adjust the mix-ins to complement the flavor.
- Do Not Overbake: These cookies are best when they are soft and chewy, so be careful not to overbake them. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Chilling the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Recipe Variations
- Red Velvet Christmas Cookies: Use a red velvet cake mix and add white chocolate chips for a festive twist.
- Peppermint Crunch Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes to the dough for a peppermint flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies: Use a chocolate cake mix and add dark chocolate chips for an extra rich cookie.
- Nutty Christmas Cookies: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed.
Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use oil instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can substitute the melted butter with 1/2 cup of vegetable oil if you prefer. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.
These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are a quick and easy way to add some festive cheer to your holiday baking. With just a few ingredients, you can create soft, chewy, and colorful cookies that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking with kids, making a batch for a cookie exchange, or simply want a fun and delicious treat, these cookies are the perfect solution. Get creative with your mix-ins and decorations, and enjoy the joy of holiday baking with these easy and delightful cookies!
