Name: Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies – Soft, Chewy Delights in Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 box Cake Mix (Any flavor, e.g., chocolate or lemon); 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with melted coconut oil); 2 large Eggs (For vegan option, use flax eggs); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can swap for finely granulated sugar)

As I pulled my batch of cookies from the oven, the rich, sweet aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my childhood. Welcome to the world of Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies! These delightful treats are the epitome of quick and easy baking—perfectly soft, chewy, and beautifully cracked on the outside, all ready in under 20 minutes. The magic begins with just a box of cake mix, a few eggs, and some oil, making them a fantastic budget-friendly choice for any home chef craving a sweet fix. Plus, their customizable nature means you can mix and match flavors to keep things interesting. What flavor combination are you thinking of trying first?

Why Choose Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies?

Quick and Easy: With just a box of cake mix, these cookies come together in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules or those sudden sweet cravings.

Customizable Flavors: From chocolate to lemon, you can tailor each batch to your liking! Why not try a zesty citrus or a funfetti addition for a festive touch?

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, these treats keep your wallet happy without sacrificing flavor.

Delightful Texture: Expect a satisfyingly chewy interior with a crisp exterior, offering a delightful bite that feels both homely and indulgent.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for everything from casual gatherings to celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Pair them with coffee or tea for a delightful treat!

These cookies may remind you of our Strawberries Cream Cake or Vanilla Waffle Cookies for more sweet inspirations!

Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Cake Mix – The essential ingredient that delivers flavor and sweetness; experiment with different flavors like chocolate or lemon for unique twists.
Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness to the cookies; can also be replaced with melted coconut oil for a fun variation.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together; for a vegan option, use flax eggs instead.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar – This sugary dusting gives the cookies their characteristic crackle and sweetness; swap with finely granulated sugar if you’re seeking a coarser texture.

Feel inspired to create your own Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies, tailored to your taste bud adventures!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies won’t stick during baking. This setup helps create an effortless cookie experience, so your sweet treats come out perfectly crisp on the edges and soft in the center.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir the mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies. Aim for a thick, sticky dough that’s well-blended but retains some lumps to keep your Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough Balls
Using your hands or a scoop, roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. This method helps ensure your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful crinkle effect. Once rolled, place the dough balls onto a plate or a clean surface to prepare for the next step of coating.

Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Generously roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until completely covered. This sweet coating not only adds flavor but also contributes to the iconic crackled appearance of the Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies as they bake. Make sure the balls have a nice, thick layer of sugar for the best visual effect and taste.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Transfer the coated dough balls to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. This space allows the cookies to spread without merging, ensuring the perfect shape. Be mindful of your placement, as neatly arranged cookies will create a beautiful batch that’s ready for baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for about 10 minutes. Watch for the edges to firm up while the tops become beautifully cracked. The moment you see those telltale cracks, you’ll know your Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies are ready to come out for that irresistible, soft texture.

Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This resting period helps them firm up slightly and makes transferring to a wire rack much easier. After a brief cooling, move the cookies to the rack to finish cooling completely, enhancing their delightful chewy texture.

How to Store and Freeze Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your leftover Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Dough Storage: If you want to prep ahead, you can chill the dough in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months before baking.

Reheating: To enjoy soft cookies again, simply microwave the thawed or room temperature cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey delight!

Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful cookies to match your tastes!

Chocolate Delight: Swap vanilla cake mix for chocolate to create rich, fudgy cookies. They’ll be a chocolate lover’s dream!
Zesty Lemon: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to vanilla cake mix for a refreshing citrus burst. Perfect for brightening up your cookie plate!
Funfetti Magic: Mix in colorful sprinkles for a funfetti twist; it adds a playful touch and makes any occasion feel festive—ideal for birthday celebrations!
Nuts Galore: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch and flavor. The contrast with the chewy interior is simply divine.
Coconut Bliss: Use a coconut-flavored cake mix and fold in shredded coconut to turn your cookies into a tropical treat. A delightful escape from the ordinary!
Spicy Pumpkin: Try using spice cake mix combined with pumpkin puree for a cozy fall-inspired cookie. These will wrap you in warmth with every bite!
Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute nut-bearing ingredients for seeds or coconut to cater to dietary restrictions without losing flavor—almond extract works wonders here!
Chocoholic Boost: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for an extra layer of indulgence. The gooey pockets of chocolate take these cookies to the next level—perfect for dessert lovers!

Explore these variations to create your very own signature Cookie! For more sweet inspirations, consider trying our Vanilla Waffle Cookies or the luscious Pink Lemonade Cake!

What to Serve with Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies

There’s something special about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere with delightful treats that complement your baking.

Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy beverage enhances the cookie’s sweetness, making each bite feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla provides a cool, smooth contrast that perfectly balances the softness of the cookies. Pairing these two will take you straight to dessert paradise!
Fruity Yogurt Parfait: Layering fruity yogurt with granola and fresh berries brings a bright, fresh element to your dessert table, creating a lovely contrast with the cookies’ chewy texture.
Coffee or Tea: Enjoy your cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a soothing end to the day. The warmth of the drink enhances the cookies’ inviting aroma.
Homemade Fruit Compote: A dollop of sweet peach or berry compote adds a luscious fruity note that sings alongside the rich flavors of the cookies. Feel free to get creative with seasonal fruits!
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea, offering a nice contrast to the sweet cookies, and perfect for gatherings or summer days.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a truly indulgent experience, drizzle or dip your cookies in warm chocolate sauce. The richness of chocolate elevates their irresistible charm!
Baked Fruit Crisp: Serve warm cookie alongside a fruit crisp, like apple or peach, to add another layer of warmth and texture to your dessert spread—a nostalgic classic!

Expert Tips for Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies

Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the dough until just combined helps maintain the cookies’ delightful softness; overmixing can result in dense cookies.
Chill for Perfection: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling. It helps create a better texture and prevents excessive spreading.
Sugar Coating Secrets: Ensure to coat the dough balls generously with powdered sugar to achieve that signature crackle—this is a crucial step for beautiful Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies.
Baking Time Matters: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake; they’re done when the edges are firm but the centers remain soft—a common mistake is leaving them in too long.
Taste Variations: Don’t hesitate to add in extras like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra flavor boost; it’s a great way to customize your Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into balls, coating each in powdered sugar, and then refrigerating them. This way, you’ll have your cookie dough ready to go for a quick treat whenever the sweet tooth strikes. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls in an airtight container for up to 3 months—just make sure to space them out to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This method ensures your cookies are just as delicious, with that delightful crackled finish and soft, chewy texture!

Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix works best for Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of cake mix, such as chocolate, vanilla, lemon, or red velvet. Each brings its unique twist to the cookies. I favorites chocolate for a rich indulgence and lemon for a refreshing zing.

How long can I store Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious. If you have extras, be sure to keep them sealed to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! To do so, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them, so you know what’s inside!

How should I store the cookie dough if I want to prepare it ahead of time?
If you plan on making the dough in advance, you can chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze it in pre-formed balls for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Are Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies safe for those with allergies?
Be mindful of dietary restrictions! Traditional recipes use eggs and possibly allergens like gluten and dairy (depending on the cake mix). For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Always check labels to ensure your chosen cake mix aligns with your dietary needs.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much or aren’t crinkling?
If you notice your cookies spreading too thin, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will firm it up a bit and help the cookies maintain their shape. Make sure you’re also generously coating the dough with powdered sugar before baking, as this is key to that signature crinkle effect!