Cake Mix Christmas Cookies

When it comes to holiday baking, simplicity can be just as magical as an intricate recipe. These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are a festive, fun, and foolproof treat that even the busiest holiday schedules can accommodate. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you’ll have soft, chewy cookies packed with holiday cheer.

As a mom and grandma, these cookies have become a holiday staple in our home. They’re easy enough for little hands to help with, and the colorful sprinkles make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re adding them to a cookie platter or gifting them to friends, these cookies will spread joy with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and effort make this recipe perfect for last-minute baking.
• Customizable: Swap sprinkles, add mix-ins, or change the cake mix flavor to suit your mood or holiday theme.
• Soft and Chewy: The cake mix creates a wonderfully soft texture with a hint of vanilla flavor.
• Festive Appeal: The red and green sprinkles give these cookies a cheerful, holiday-ready look.

Recipe: Cake Mix Christmas Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 (15.25 oz) box white or vanilla cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup holiday sprinkles (red and green)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms.
3. Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls with your hands.
2. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear soft but will firm up as they cool.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Add Festive Finishing Touches

1. If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.

Tips for Success

1. Mix It Up: Try red velvet, chocolate, or spice cake mix for a new flavor variation.
2. Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when slightly underbaked for a soft, chewy texture.
3. Add Flair: Stir in white chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or dried cranberries for extra holiday pizzazz.
4. Chill the Dough: If your dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
5. Gift-Worthy Presentation: Pack these cookies in holiday tins or wrap them in clear bags tied with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Why These Cookies Are a Holiday Must-Have

These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies deliver maximum festive impact with minimal effort. The vibrant sprinkles, buttery flavor, and soft texture make them an instant favorite at cookie swaps, holiday parties, or cozy nights by the fire. Their versatility also means you can personalize them to suit any holiday or occasion.

What makes this recipe even more special is how much fun it is to make with kids or grandkids. Watching little ones scoop, roll, and decorate with sprinkles is a memory-making activity in itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A1: Absolutely! Red velvet, chocolate, or even lemon cake mix are delicious alternatives.

Q2: How do I store these cookies?
A2: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A3: Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping.

Q4: How can I make the cookies less sweet?
A4: Reduce the sugar by omitting the powdered sugar dusting or choose a less-sweet cake mix.

Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
A5: Yes, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free variety for a delicious gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer with minimal effort. They’re festive, delicious, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for any holiday celebration or gift-giving occasion.

Whether you’re baking with family, preparing a last-minute treat, or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness!

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