The holidays simply aren’t complete without a batch of Cake Mix Christmas Cookies! These cheerful, melt-in-your-mouth cookies blend the convenience of boxed cake mix with festive sprinkles and just the right hint of vanilla (and maybe almond, if you’re feeling fancy). Whether you’re a novice baker or the reigning cookie swap champion, you’ll love how quick, colorful, and utterly irresistible these treats are. Cake Mix Christmas Cookies promise minimal fuss and maximum holiday spirit — perfect for family gatherings, gifts, or a cozy night in with a mug of cocoa.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of pantry staples and a few festive extras come together to make these special little holiday gems. Each ingredient plays its own beloved role, giving these cookies their signature flavor, chewy texture, and eye-catching sparkle.
- Boxed Vanilla or White Cake Mix (15.25 oz): The shortcut secret behind these cookies, giving them that classic sweet crumb and soft bite.
- Large Eggs (2): The binder that helps everything come together into a scoopable, chewy dough.
- Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and ensures every bite stays soft without getting greasy.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A warm, aromatic boost that makes these cookies taste bakery-fresh.
- Almond Extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a sweet, nutty undertone for extra holiday magic (totally optional, but delightful!).
- Red and Green Sprinkles (1/2 cup): The instant holiday upgrade—every bite carries a joyful crunch and a pop of color.
- Mini White Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup, optional): Subtle creamy bursts that contrast perfectly with the soft dough (use them if you’re craving extra indulgence).
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional): A light and snowy finish for that classic Christmas cookie look.
How to Make Cake Mix Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Baking Sheet and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, which not only guarantees the cookies won’t stick but also makes cleanup a breeze. Getting everything ready before you start mixing keeps things stress-free in the kitchen!
Step 2: Mix Up the Dough
In a big mixing bowl, combine the entire box of cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Don’t be afraid if it looks thicker than traditional cookie dough—that’s exactly how Cake Mix Christmas Cookies should start out!
Step 3: Add Sprinkles and Goodies
Gently fold in those festive red and green sprinkles, plus the mini white chocolate chips if you’re including them. Stir just until they’re evenly distributed; overmixing can take away that pretty marbled look and festive pop you want in each cookie.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop dough mounds onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. For an extra festive presentation, you can even roll the dough balls in colored sugar before baking—your secret trick for picture-perfect cookies every time.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. You’re aiming for set edges with tops that look just a little underdone; they’ll firm up as they cool, staying ultra-soft and delicious. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Step 6: The Finishing Touch
If you want your Cake Mix Christmas Cookies to look extra magical, sift a little powdered sugar over the tops while they’re still slightly warm. This adds a snowy, classic Christmas morning touch that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Cake Mix Christmas Cookies
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a hit, but you can also drizzle them with melted white chocolate or add a pinch more sprinkles on top while they’re warm. If you’re feeling creative, tiny edible gold stars or silver dragees make every batch look like a winter wonderland.
Side Dishes
Serve your cookies alongside a cozy mug of hot cocoa, coffee, or even warm spiced apple cider. These cookies also play well on a holiday platter, nestled next to chocolate crinkle cookies, gingerbread men, or buttery shortbread for a stunning dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer your Cake Mix Christmas Cookies in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for the sweetest edible gifts. For parties, stack them on a vintage cake stand, alternating layers of cookies and holiday candies for a showstopping centerpiece. Or, tuck a few into festive mugs with a sachet of cocoa mix for an adorable neighborly gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days. Be sure to layer parchment or waxed paper between the layers if you’ve dusted them with powdered sugar, to prevent sticking and smudging.
Freezing
Cake Mix Christmas Cookies freeze beautifully! After they’ve cooled completely, layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep their magical flavor and soft texture for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature—no baking required.
Reheating
If you crave that just-baked warmth, pop a few cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. They’ll soften up and the white chocolate chips (if you used them) will get a little gooey, which nobody can resist!
FAQs
Can I use other flavors of cake mix for Cake Mix Christmas Cookies?
Absolutely! Try chocolate, red velvet, or even spice cake mix for a fresh spin on the classic. Just match your mix-ins and sprinkles to the flavor for a fun, festive variety on your cookie tray.
How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Using parchment paper helps, but you can also chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking if your kitchen is especially warm. This helps hold the cookie shape and keeps them thick and soft.
Can I make Cake Mix Christmas Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free cake mix from your favorite brand, and check that your mix-ins are gluten-free as well. The results are just as tasty and tender as the original.
What if I don’t have a cookie scoop?
No problem! A tablespoon works perfectly. If your dough is sticky, lightly oil your spoon or hands to help shape the cookies with less mess.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
You sure can. Mix up the dough and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours. You might need to let it warm at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping since the dough will firm up in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are the kind of effortless, joy-sparking treat that turns even ordinary days into something special. With every bite, you’ll taste a little bit of holiday magic. If you try just one new sweet this season, make it these cookies — they’re pure, festive fun for everyone!
Print
Cake Mix Christmas Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are a quick and easy way to make festive treats for the holiday season. Using a box of cake mix simplifies the process, resulting in soft and delicious cookies that everyone will love. Customize with your favorite mix-ins and decorations for a fun and colorful batch of cookies.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles
- 1/2 cup mini white chocolate chips (optional)
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix cookie dough: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until a soft dough forms. Fold in sprinkles and white chocolate chips.
- Bake cookies: Drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set. Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Optional step to dust cookies with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for variety.
- Roll dough in colored sugar for a more festive look.
- Cookies stay soft for several days and can be frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
