If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, this Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up irresistibly soft, chewy cookies with that signature crinkled topping that looks as charming as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight treat or a special gathering, these cookies come together quickly and offer endless flavor possibilities, thanks to the versatility of cake mix. Let’s dive into why this recipe has captured hearts and ovens everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible ingredients make this Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe a breeze to prepare, each playing a crucial role in creating those perfect cookie bites. From the flavorful cake mix base to the powdered sugar that creates stunning crinkles, every component enhances taste, texture, and visual appeal.
- Cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): The foundation of flavor and color—choose your favorite like chocolate, red velvet, or lemon for different vibes.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind the dough and provide structure for chewy cookies.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cookies moist and tender without overpowering the cake mix flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements almost any cake mix flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): For rolling—this creates the distinctive cracked, snowy coating on each cookie.
How to Make Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and keeps the cookies from sticking, making cleanup much easier after your cookies come out perfect.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your chosen cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Stir everything until you get a thick, smooth dough. It should be slightly sticky but hold together well. This quick mix creates the perfect texture without fuss.
Step 3: Shape and Coat
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball with your hands. Then, generously coat each ball by rolling it in powdered sugar until fully covered. This step is essential—it not only adds sweetness but also helps develop that iconic crinkled surface as the cookies bake.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookie edges are set and the tops have those beautiful cracks. Once done, let them cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. This brief rest helps the cookies firm up just right.
How to Serve Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are stunning on their own, you can add a sprinkle of extra powdered sugar for an elegant snow-dusted effect or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a luscious touch that makes them even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair your crinkle cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert sandwich or serve alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk to complement their sweet, rich flavor and tender crumb.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, arrange the cookies in a decorative tin layered with parchment paper, or stack them on a pretty platter with fresh fruit and edible flowers for an eye-catching treat display that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay wonderfully soft and fresh for up to five days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies longer, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag after cooling. They freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to three months, making them an excellent make-ahead sweet treat.
Reheating
To bring your cookies back to that freshly-baked warmth, pop a few in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This gives you a soft, comforting cookie experience anytime you crave one.
FAQs
Can I use any flavor of cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe is its versatility. Whether chocolate, red velvet, lemon, or any other flavor, each will bring its own unique twist to your cookies.
Do I have to use powdered sugar for rolling the dough balls?
Powdered sugar is key to creating the cookie’s signature crinkled appearance and a subtle sweetness on the outside, so it’s highly recommended for the best results.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a bit of citrus zest can elevate the cookies and make them your own special treat.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be set and the tops cracked, but the cookies will still be soft in the middle. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender and chewy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as your cake mix and other ingredients don’t contain animal-derived additives.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyful about baking a batch of these Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe treats. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get wonderfully chewy, sweet cookies that bring smiles and a little sparkle to any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how effortless and delightful baking can be when you’ve got a trusted recipe like this one in your kitchen arsenal.
Print
Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies are a quick and easy dessert made from a box cake mix, eggs, and oil. They have a soft, chewy texture with a beautiful cracked powdered sugar coating that makes them perfect for any occasion, especially holidays. This versatile recipe allows for any cake flavor to be used and can be enhanced with extra add-ins like chocolate chips or citrus zest.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 box (15.25 oz) cake mix (any flavor, such as chocolate, red velvet, or lemon)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Coating
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract if using. Stir the mixture until a thick dough forms, making sure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated, giving the cookies their signature crinkle appearance once baked.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops have developed a crinkled texture.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set properly without breaking.
Notes
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors like chocolate for classic crinkles, lemon for a bright citrusy twist, or red velvet for festive treats.
- Add mix-ins such as chocolate chips or citrus zest to boost flavor and texture.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy inside.
- Roll dough balls generously in powdered sugar for the best crinkle effect.
