Patriotic Cake Mix Cookies

Patriotic Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate quick and easy treat for your 4th of July, Memorial Day, or Labor Day celebrations. Made with just a few ingredients, these soft and chewy cookies use a box of cake mix as the base and are decked out in red, white, and blue candies or sprinkles. They’re festive, delicious, and perfect for whipping up in a pinch when you want something sweet and celebratory.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only a handful of ingredients needed
• Super quick to make—no chilling or complicated steps
• Soft and chewy texture with cake-like richness
• Fun and festive with patriotic colors
• Great for kids to help mix, scoop, and decorate

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White or vanilla cake mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Red, white, and blue M&Ms or chocolate candies
• Optional: patriotic sprinkles or sanding sugar
• Optional: vanilla extract for added flavor

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Fold in red, white, and blue M&Ms or candies.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
5. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
6. Gently press additional M&Ms or sprinkles onto the tops for a decorative touch.
7. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are soft.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 9–11 minutes
• Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Use red velvet, funfetti, or strawberry cake mix for a different base color
• Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and contrast
• Use patriotic sprinkles only, or combine with M&Ms
• Turn into cookie sandwiches with frosting in the middle
• Make mini cookie versions for a bite-sized party platter

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, let cookies cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. These cookies don’t need reheating, but a 5-second microwave warm-up brings back a fresh-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I use any cake mix flavor?

Yes, white and vanilla are classic for patriotic themes, but red velvet, lemon, or funfetti cake mixes also work great.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is required—this dough is ready to bake as soon as it’s mixed.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cake mix and follow the same directions.

What can I use instead of M&Ms?

Try red, white, and blue sprinkles, white chocolate chips, or candy-coated chocolate pieces.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe easily doubles. Use two baking sheets and bake in batches.

Are these cookies chewy or cakey?

They’re soft and chewy, with a slightly cakey texture thanks to the cake mix.

Can kids help make these?

Absolutely! Kids can mix the dough, scoop cookies, and decorate with sprinkles or candies.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

They’re best within 3–5 days when stored in a sealed container at room temperature.

Can I add extract for extra flavor?

Yes, a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract adds a boost of flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes. Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Conclusion

Patriotic Cake Mix Cookies are a quick, easy, and festive dessert that’s perfect for any red, white, and blue occasion. With minimal prep and big visual impact, they’re ideal for busy bakers and party hosts alike. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or just want a colorful treat, these cookies will bring cheerful flavor to your celebration.

Print