The Easiest Cookies Ever: Cake Mix Cookies – Your New Go-To Treat!

  Who doesn't love a warm, chewy, freshly baked cookie? But let's be honest, sometimes the idea of pulling out all the ingredients and going through a multi-step baking process feels like a bit too much effort. What if I told you there's a ridiculously easy way to get delicious, soft-baked cookies with minimal fuss and maximum flavor? Enter the magic of Cake Mix Cookies!

Yes, you heard that right! Your favorite box of cake mix isn't just for cakes anymore. It's the secret ingredient to creating an endless variety of quick, flavorful, and incredibly simple cookies. This hack is a dream come true for busy bakers, beginner cooks, or anyone who just wants a sweet treat without all the fuss.

The beauty of cake mix cookies lies in their simplicity and versatility. With just a few extra ingredients, you can transform a humble box of cake mix into chewy, soft, and utterly delightful cookies that taste completely homemade. Plus, the flavor possibilities are endless – simply pick your favorite cake mix flavor and let your creativity (and cravings) guide you!

Get ready to whip up a batch of these unbelievably easy and delicious cookies. They're about to become your new go-to recipe!

Here's how to make your new favorite easy treat:

Yields: Approximately 2 dozen cookies Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended) Bake time: 8-10 minutes per batch

Ingredients:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) cake mix (any flavor: vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, lemon, funfetti, etc.)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but enhances flavor)
• Optional add-ins: 1 cup chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit, M&Ms, etc.

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) or sturdy spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

Instructions:

1.    Preheat Oven & Prep Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2.   Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

3.   Add Cake Mix, Eggs & Vanilla: Add the entire box of cake mix to the bowl. Crack in the two eggs and add the vanilla extract (if using).

4.   Mix Until Combined: Beat on low speed until the cake mix is mostly incorporated, then increase to medium speed and mix until a soft, uniform dough forms. It will be thick and sticky.

5.   Stir in Add-ins (Optional): If you're using chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, or other add-ins, gently fold them into the dough now.

6.   Chill Dough (Optional but Recommended): For easier handling and to prevent excessive spreading, cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This step isn't strictly necessary but does improve the cookie texture.

7.   Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.

8.   Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set (they might look slightly undercooked, but will firm up as they cool). Do not overbake!

9.   Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Flavor Combinations to Try:

• Chocolate Chip: Use a yellow or vanilla cake mix and add chocolate chips.
• Red Velvet Crinkle: Use a red velvet cake mix, and before baking, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar.
• Lemon Burst: Use a lemon cake mix, and optionally add lemon zest or a drizzle of lemon glaze after baking.
• Funfetti Celebration: Use a funfetti cake mix and add extra sprinkles!

These Cake Mix Cookies are a revelation – so simple, so versatile, and absolutely delicious. They're perfect for satisfying a sudden sweet craving, a quick treat for a bake sale, or a fun baking project with kids. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to the easiest cookies you'll ever make!

Happy baking!