Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are a fast, fuss-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Using boxed cake mix as a base, these cookies come together in minutes and bake into soft, chewy perfection. Whether you’re baking with kids, short on time, or just want something quick and chocolatey, this recipe is a delicious solution that never fails. The beauty of cake mix cookies lies in their simplicity—you only need a handful of ingredients, and there’s no need to cream butter or sift flour.

These cookies are incredibly versatile, too. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, candies, or even swirl in peanut butter or cream cheese for an indulgent twist. They’re perfect for last-minute desserts, cookie swaps, bake sales, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing treat in a pinch. Despite their simplicity, they taste just like homemade cookies—with a soft, brownie-like texture and deep chocolate flavor. If you’ve never turned cake mix into cookies before, prepare to be amazed. This easy shortcut will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish with minimal prep.
2. Foolproof for Beginners – No baking experience needed; cake mix does the hard work for you.
3. Incredibly Soft and Chewy – The texture is like a cross between a brownie and a cookie.
4. Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or candy pieces.
5. Minimal Cleanup – Fewer ingredients and less mess make it perfect for busy days.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Chocolate cake mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Optional: chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, M&M’s, chopped nuts, sprinkles

Variations

Double Chocolate Chip

Stir in dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor.

Mint Chocolate

Add peppermint extract and white chocolate chips for a minty twist.

Peanut Butter Swirl

Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter before baking.

Rocky Road

Add chopped marshmallows, nuts, and chocolate chunks.

Stuffed Cookies

Scoop dough around a mini peanut butter cup or caramel candy for a gooey center.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and oil. Stir until a thick dough forms. Fold in any desired mix-ins.

Step 3: Scoop the Dough

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Do not overbake.

Step 5: Cool

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overmix – Just stir until combined to keep the cookies tender.
• Slightly underbake – They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet, keeping them soft and chewy.
• Use parchment paper – Makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
• Chill the dough – For puffier cookies, chill the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking.
• Make a cookie sandwich – Spread frosting or ice cream between two cookies for a decadent treat.

How to Serve

Serve these cookies warm with a cold glass of milk, crumble them over ice cream, or package them up for gifting. They’re also perfect for lunchboxes, dessert platters, or quick weeknight treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake frozen dough directly—just add an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

Microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and softness.

FAQs

1. Can I use any flavor of cake mix?

Yes! This recipe works with any cake mix—try vanilla, red velvet, or spice for different variations.

2. Do I need to follow the directions on the box?

No, just use the dry cake mix and follow the cookie recipe’s ingredient list.

3. Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter can be used for a richer flavor, though the texture may be slightly different.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.

5. Why are my cookies flat?

The dough may be too warm. Try chilling it before baking. Also, don’t overbake.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.

7. Can I add frosting?

Absolutely! Frost with chocolate or vanilla buttercream or drizzle with melted chocolate.

8. How many cookies does this recipe make?

Usually about 18–24 cookies, depending on size.

9. Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! It’s very kid-friendly and a great way to get little hands involved in baking.

10. Do these cookies taste like boxed cake?

No—they taste like rich, chewy cookies with a deep chocolate flavor.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate shortcut to a decadent dessert. With just a few ingredients and barely any prep time, you’ll have soft, chewy cookies that taste homemade without the hassle. Perfect for busy bakers, spontaneous cravings, or simple joy, this recipe proves that you don’t need to start from scratch to bake something truly delicious. Keep a box of cake mix in your pantry—you’ll be surprised how often you come back to this go-to treat.

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