Name: Box Cake Mix Cookies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 15.25 oz Box Cake Mix (1 Standard Box) (See Notes below for varieties); 1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil; 2 Large Eggs

Jump to Recipe

These Box Cake Mix Cookies might feel a little like cheating, but since we don’t all have the same 24 hours in a day, sometimes we need a quick option. These cookies only need a box of cake mix, vegetable oil and eggs. I cannot stress just how easy these are. Perfect if you have a box of cake mix sitting around in the pantry, or maybe you have surprise guests and want to serve something sweet super quickly. This is the recipe.

Of course, there are plenty of from scratch cookie recipes out there, including many on my website. That said, sometimes we just need something that comes together without much thought and in no time. Maybe surprise guests are turning up in 20 minutes. Perhaps the kids just mentioned a bake sale tomorrow at school. Or, you just want some cookies but don’t want to make a long recipe. I totally get it.

This recipe only requires three ingredients. There is a suggested chill time but that really is only guidance if you have the time. If you’re in a rush, skipping this step won’t lead to bad results. This is a really versatile recipe, feel free to use any box mix you like – the same recipe applies!

INGREDIENTS REQUIRED

There are no specialist ingredients or equipment required for this bake. I can find everything I need at my local supermarket or grocery store. Also, I use a standard large baking tray/cookie sheet. Bake across two pans as the cookies spread while baking.

Cake Mix (Any brand/variety/flavor)
Large Free Range Eggs
Vegetable Oil

Boxed Cake Mix: A Brief History

Early 20th Century Innovation: Boxed cake mixes emerged in the early 20th century as a convenient solution for home baking.
1920s Development: The first commercially produced cake mix was introduced in the 1920s by the company Betty Crocker (General Mills), initially offering just a few basic flavors.
Post-World War II Boom: Boxed cake mixes became extremely popular in the post-World War II era due to their convenience and time-saving benefits, aligning with the rise of convenience foods.
Technological Advances: Advances in food processing and packaging technologies contributed to the development and distribution of boxed cake mixes on a larger scale.
Marketing Strategies: Companies like Duncan Hines and Pillsbury further popularized boxed cake mixes through extensive marketing campaigns, often emphasizing ease of use and consistent results.
Cultural Impact: Boxed cake mixes became a symbol of modernity and convenience in American households, reflecting broader societal shifts towards convenience and time efficiency.
Evolution of Flavors and Varieties: Over time, boxed cake mixes expanded to include a wide range of flavors, catering to diverse consumer tastes and preferences.
Nutritional Concerns and Revisions: In response to changing consumer preferences and health concerns, some companies have revised their formulations to include healthier ingredients or fewer artificial additives.
Continued Popularity: Despite the availability of homemade recipes and gourmet alternatives, boxed cake mixes continue to be popular for their convenience and reliable results in home baking.

Tips for the Best Box Cake Mix Cookies

Mix: Feel free to use any cake mix you like or have to hand.
Add-ins: Jazz up your cookies with add-ins like chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit. Really anything you like for a little extra bite of texture or flavor.
Chill Time: This really does help to make the best cookies! 15-20 minutes is great if you have the time. If not, the cookies will still be great.

You could try:

Red Velvet with White Chocolate Chips
Yellow Cake with Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Funfetti with Extra Sprinkles
Chocolate with Chopped Peanuts

Chill Time: This really does help to make the best cookies! 30 minutes is the minimum to let the dough form up, meaning the butter doesn’t ‘leak’ whilst baking. If you are making ahead, overnight is great!

STORAGE FOR MY Box Cake Mix Cookies

When it comes to storing fresh cookies, it’s essential to maintain their texture and flavor. Here are a few tips to help you store your cookies effectively:

Pantry: As these cookies don’t require refrigeration, place them in an airtight container in a cool place like your pantry or cupboard.
Freezing: Cookies can generally be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag with layers separated by parchment paper. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. Only do this with the dough before baking. Once baked, you can freeze, but not with the frosting!

By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your freshly baked cookies for an extended period without compromising on quality.

I bake these Box Cake Mix Cookies on classic sheet pans (like these). For more baking inspiration, head on over to my Instagram. For more cookie ideas, check out these Chai Latte Cookies!