Cake Mix Christmas Cookies

Introduction

This holiday season, I found myself on the lookout for a quick and festive cookie recipe that would bring joy not just to my taste buds but also to my family gatherings. Enter the Cake Mix Christmas Cookies! With their vibrant colors and delightful flavors, these cookies have quickly become a staple in my household. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute baking sessions. My family couldn’t get enough of these chewy treats, and I loved how easy they were to prepare. If you’re in search of a holiday cookie that’s both simple and delicious, this recipe is for you!

Ingredients

• 1 box white or vanilla cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red and green sprinkles or colored sugar
• Optional: White chocolate chips or festive M&M’s

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
4. Gently fold in half of the red and green sprinkles, white chocolate chips, or festive M&M’s into the dough.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls.
6. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten the dough balls slightly with your palm.
8. Sprinkle additional red and green sprinkles on top of each cookie for extra holiday cheer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies chewy.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, serve your festive cookies on a platter or package them as holiday gifts!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: 120

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes

How to Serve

• On a Platter: Arrange cookies on a festive platter for a holiday gathering.
• Gift Wrapping: Package them in cellophane bags tied with ribbons for thoughtful gifts.
• With Hot Cocoa: Serve alongside mugs of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• As a Dessert Table Addition: Include them in a dessert table spread for parties.
• With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for a delicious twist.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Cake Mix: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality brand of cake mix.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before scooping.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Try using different cake mix flavors like chocolate or red velvet for variety.
4. Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts for an extra crunch and flavor.
5. Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Version: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of white or vanilla for a rich twist.
• Peppermint Delight: Add crushed peppermint candies to the dough for a refreshing flavor.
• Nutty Cookies: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Fruity Flair: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of sweetness.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Coffee Companion: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Holiday Parties: Serve at holiday parties alongside other treats like brownies and fudge.
• Dessert Bar: Include them in a dessert bar with various toppings and dips.
• Kids’ Parties: Perfect for children’s holiday parties as a fun, colorful treat.
• Bake Sale: Great option for bake sales—easy to make and appealing to all ages!

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

• Yes! Chocolate, lemon, or red velvet cake mixes work wonderfully.

1. Do I need to chill the dough?

• Chilling is optional, but it can help if the dough is too sticky.

1. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. Can I add more sprinkles?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add as many sprinkles as you like for extra color.

1. What if I don’t have vegetable oil?

• You can substitute melted butter or another neutral oil like canola oil.

1. How can I make these cookies chewy?

• Be careful not to overbake them; they should be soft in the center when you take them out.

1. Can I use mini chocolate chips?

• Yes! Mini chocolate chips will melt beautifully into the cookies.

1. How long do these cookies last?

• They can last up to a week at room temperature if stored properly.

1. What’s the best way to package cookies for gifts?

• Use clear bags tied with festive ribbons or decorative boxes for an attractive presentation.

1. Can I make these cookies vegan?
   • Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a vegan cake mix and oil.

Conclusion

These Cake Mix Christmas Cookies are not just simple to make; they are a delightful way to add some holiday spirit to your festivities. With their chewy texture and colorful sprinkles, they are sure to bring smiles to your family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cookie swap, or simply to enjoy at home, this recipe is a keeper. So gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite holiday music, and start baking these cheerful cookies that are bound to become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking!

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