Name: Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix; 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 70 reviews

If you are searching for a fun, simple, and utterly delicious treat, the Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies take the beloved flavors of yellow cake and transform them into soft, chewy cookies with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. With just a few pantry-friendly ingredients, you can whip up a batch that boasts a beautiful golden color, a tender crumb, and endless versatility for sweet add-ins. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or an easy weekday indulgence, these cookies bring classic comfort and baked-goods bliss to any occasion.

Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses simple, staple ingredients that work in harmony to create the perfect cookie texture and flavor. From the rich yellow cake mix to the smoothness of oil or butter, every element has a role in making these cookies truly special.

Yellow cake mix: The base of the cookies, providing sweetness and that iconic yellow cake flavor and tender crumb.
Vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds moisture and richness; butter gives a deeper flavor while oil keeps the cookies softer.
Eggs: Act as a binder and give structure, offering just the right chewiness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake mix’s flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
Chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts (optional): Personalize your cookies with mix-ins that add bursts of flavor and textural interest.

How to Make Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake from the moment your cookies go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Together Your Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you see a thick, cohesive dough forming. This dough is what will give you those tender, cake-like cookies you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Fold in Your Favorite Add-Ins

If you want to jazz things up, now’s the time to fold in chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts. These add a personalized touch and extra bursts of flavor and texture that make each bite exciting.

Step 4: Scoop and Space Out Your Dough

Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out your dough. Place the scoops about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet; this spacing lets the cookies spread just enough without merging together.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. You’ll want to catch them as soon as the edges turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft, ensuring that perfect chewy-soft texture.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes. This resting time lets them set so they don’t crumble. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before diving in.

How to Serve Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies sparkle with their own golden charm, adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can make them feel extra festive and irresistible, great for special occasions or gifting.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or milk creates a comforting duo that fits perfectly into any dessert lineup or afternoon snack break.

Creative Ways to Present

Package these cookies in colorful tins or wrap them up with ribbon for a homemade gift. Or stack them alongside a layered trifle or dessert platter to show off their buttery, soft texture and inviting yellow hue.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and delicious for several days, making them a perfect ready-to-eat snack for the week ahead.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before baking (freeze dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a container) or after baking. When frozen properly, they maintain texture and flavor for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked softness, warm your cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for a few minutes. It’s like enjoying them fresh out of the oven every time.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix instead of yellow?

Absolutely! Chocolate, red velvet, or spice cake mixes work beautifully and give your cookies a completely new flavor profile to enjoy.

What if I don’t have vegetable oil or butter?

These fats are essential for moisture and softness. However, you could try melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a healthier twist, but results may vary with texture.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies usually mean the dough is too warm or overmixed. Chill your dough briefly or mix just until combined to keep cookies tender and thick.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You could use a gluten-free yellow cake mix, but be sure to check that your add-ins are gluten-free as well for a safe and tasty treat.

How do I make the cookies more cakey?

Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dough can boost cakeyness, or simply bake them a bit less to keep centers soft.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about turning a simple yellow cake mix into soft, chewy cookies that feel homemade and special. This Yellow Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is a total winner for anyone craving a quick but thoroughly delightful dessert. I encourage you to whip up a batch, get creative with your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy the little moments of happiness these cookies bring to your day.