Introduction

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and of course, delicious cookies. This year, let cake mix take your Christmas cookie game to a new level. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these festive chocolate chip cake mix cookies are bound to become a seasonal favorite.

Using cake mix as a base not only saves time in the kitchen but also ensures a soft, tender texture that’s hard to beat. Whether you're baking for a holiday party or preparing cookie boxes for neighbors, these delightful treats offer the perfect blend of nostalgia and festive cheer.

Add in seasonal sprinkles or holiday-themed chocolate chips for an extra touch of whimsy. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so simple yet utterly delightful, ensuring you can savor every moment spent in the kitchen and out.

Ingredients

1 box cake mix (15.25 oz)
The cake mix serves as the primary base for your cookies, creating a soft and chewy texture while imparting rich flavors. Opt for a classic vanilla or chocolate mix to suit the festive spirit.
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Vegetable oil adds moisture to the cookies, preventing them from becoming dry. It also aids in achieving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
2 large eggs
Eggs provide structure to the cookie dough, helping it bind together while also contributing to a tender texture. Additionally, they enhance the flavor of the cookies.
1 cup chocolate chips
Chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness and richness that perfectly balance the flavors of the cookies. You can mix it up using dark, semi-sweet, or even festive-colored chocolate.
1/2 cup holiday sprinkles (optional)
Sprinkles not only add color and visual appeal to your cookies but also a bit of additional sweetness. They make the cookies feel extra festive and perfect for the holiday season.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is essential for even baking. It ensures that your cookies begin to bake as soon as they hit the pan, resulting in a perfect golden exterior and soft interior.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs.

Mixing the dry and wet ingredients first allows for a smoother cookie dough. The cake mix's dry elements blend well with oil and eggs, creating a thick, consistent batter.

Step 3: Fold in the chocolate chips and sprinkles (if using).

Gently folding in the chocolate chips ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step also helps maintain the fluffiness of the batter, resulting in delightful bites.

Step 4: Scoop dough onto a lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Spacing your cookies approximately two inches apart allows them to spread without sticking together. This prevents messy cookies and ensures an even bake.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set.

Monitoring the cookies closely during baking is crucial; pulling them out when the edges are just set ensures they will remain soft while cooling. Overbaking can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Allowing the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet helps them firm up, making it easier to transfer without breaking. Moving them too soon can result in crumbling.

Festive Cake Mix Christmas Cookies step photo

Why Cake Mix Cookies Are a Holiday Favorite

The beauty of cake mix cookies lies in their simplicity and versatility. Cake mixes come in a variety of flavors, allowing you to customize your cookies to suit the festive mood. Plus, they require minimal measuring and mixing, making them a quick choice for busy holiday bakers.

Add a Personal Touch with Mix-Ins

While chocolate chips are a classic choice, the real fun comes from experimenting with different mix-ins. Consider adding crushed candy canes, nuts, or festive-shaped sprinkles to the dough. These additional touches not only elevate the flavor but also personalize the cookies for your holiday celebrations.

Perfect for Gift Giving

Baked goods have always been a beloved choice for holiday gifts, and these cake mix cookies are no exception. Their cheerful appearance and delightful taste make them ideal for cookie tins or gift boxes. Wrap them up neatly, and they fulfill the perfect heartfelt gesture for friends and neighbors.

FAQs

What can I do if my cookie dough is too thick?

If the dough seems too thick and difficult to scoop, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. This will help the ingredients blend together better.

What if I want a more festive flavor?

Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a seasonal twist. You can also consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Can I use other types of cake mix?

Absolutely! Experimenting with different cake mix flavors, such as funfetti, red velvet, or lemon, can create unique holiday cookies that keep things interesting.

How can I ensure my cookies are chewy?

Make sure not to overbake them. Remove the cookies when the edges are set but the center looks slightly soft, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?

Check your baking soda measurement and refrigerator time for the dough. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help control spreading.

Can I substitute the oil for butter?

Yes, but keep in mind that butter will create a slightly richer flavor and denser texture. If using butter, ensure it is softened for easy incorporation.

Conclusion

These festive cake mix Christmas cookies prove that delicious baking doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’re on your way to creating sweet treats that spread holiday cheer.

Embrace the joy of baking this Christmas, and don't hesitate to get creative with flavors and decorations. Share these delightful cookies with friends and family, making your holiday season even more special.

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