Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate shortcut treat—soft, chewy, and rich in chocolate flavor with just a handful of ingredients. Using a boxed cake mix as the base, these cookies come together in minutes and are perfect for when you need a quick dessert fix with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly easy—no need to measure out flour or cocoa powder. With a boxed chocolate cake mix, a few pantry staples, and endless mix-in options, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies ready in under 20 minutes. They’re great for holidays, bake sales, or anytime chocolate cravings strike.

ingredients

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

• Chocolate cake mix (any brand, standard 15.25 oz box)
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, M&M’s, chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and oil. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Fold in any desired mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
6. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 cookies
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Use a devil’s food or fudge cake mix for extra chocolatey cookies
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for contrast
• Stir in crushed peppermint for a holiday version
• Mix in mini marshmallows and graham cracker bits for s’mores cookies
• Use different cake mix flavors like red velvet or yellow cake for variety

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place cooled cookies in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Reheat briefly in the microwave (about 8–10 seconds) for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use any brand of cake mix?

Yes, any standard 15.25 oz box of chocolate cake mix will work.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter gives a slightly richer flavor and firmer texture.

Are these cookies soft or crispy?

They’re soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges when baked just right.

Can I refrigerate the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and intensify the flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and double-check your add-ins.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Bake until the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft—they’ll continue cooking as they cool.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use two boxes of cake mix and double the eggs and oil.

Do I need to use a mixer?

No, this dough can easily be mixed by hand with a spatula or spoon.

Can I make cookie bars instead of cookies?

Yes, press the dough into a greased 9×13 pan and bake at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, scoop dough into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. With rich flavor, soft texture, and endless customization options, they’re a go-to recipe for beginner and experienced bakers alike. Whip up a batch in no time and enjoy warm, chocolatey cookies with minimal fuss.

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