Easy 3 Ingredient Cake Mix Cookies with Butter Recipe
3 ingredient cake mix cookies with butter: a simple recipe yielding soft, buttery cookies, perfect for quick baking and satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.
Equipment
- The preparation of 3 ingredient cake mix cookies with butter requires minimal equipment, making it accessible to most home bakers.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium to large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
- Electric Mixer (optional): An electric mixer can expedite the mixing process, but a sturdy spoon or whisk works as well.
- Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring the cake mix and butter.
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet, preferably with a non-stick surface.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent cookies from sticking.
- Cookie Scoop (optional): A cookie scoop helps to create uniform cookies.
- Wire Rack: For cooling the baked cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) cake mix (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cake mix. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend the ingredients until a crumbly mixture forms. Add the eggs and continue mixing until a smooth, uniform dough is achieved. Ensure that all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Shape the Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading. For uniform cookies, consider using a cookie scoop.
- Step 4: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers appear set. Baking time may vary depending on the oven and altitude, so keep a close watch.
- Step 5: Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these cookies can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to a week. For added flavor, consider incorporating 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts into the dough before baking. Alternatively, substitute vegetable oil for butter (using 1/4 cup), bearing in mind that this will impact the texture and richness of the cookies.
Notes
Variations
The inherent simplicity of 3 ingredient cake mix cookies with butter invites creative adaptation. The base recipe is readily modified to suit diverse tastes, dietary requirements, or seasonal themes.
- Ingredient Swaps: For a healthier alternative, applesauce can replace half the amount of butter. This reduces fat content while maintaining a moist texture. Vegetable oil can also substitute for butter, though the flavor profile will be less rich.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating spices common in regional baking traditions can elevate the cookies. A dash of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, spiced cookie reminiscent of autumn flavors. A pinch of cardamom introduces an exotic, aromatic note.
- Dietary Adjustments: Gluten-free cake mixes allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this recipe. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free. Egg replacements, such as flax eggs, can accommodate vegan dietary needs, although this may slightly alter the texture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Extract infusions can elevate the flavor. A teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract intensifies the existing flavors, creating a gourmet-tasting cookie. Zests from lemons, oranges, or limes add bright, citrusy notes.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of 3 ingredient cake mix cookies with butter makes them suitable for various occasions.
- Casual Snacking: Serve warm, fresh-from-the-oven cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a simple yet satisfying snack.
- Dessert Pairing: Complement these cookies with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an easy dessert.
- Party Favors: Package the cooled cookies in cellophane bags tied with decorative ribbons for party favors or gifts.
- Holiday Treats: Adapt the recipe with holiday-themed sprinkles or flavors for festive gatherings. Decorating the cookies with royal icing adds a personal touch.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to preserving the freshness and flavor of 3 ingredient cake mix cookies with butter.
- Airtight Container: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.
- Layering: Place parchment paper or wax paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored cookies will remain fresh for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies can last up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use a sugar-free cake mix? The use of a sugar-free cake mix is permissible, though it may impact the overall sweetness and texture of the cookies. Consider adjusting the amount of butter or adding a sugar substitute to achieve the desired result.
- Question 2: Can I use margarine instead of butter? Margarine can substitute for butter, but the cookies’ flavor and texture will differ. Butter provides a richness and flavor that margarine may lack.
- Question 3: Why are my cookies flat? Flat cookies can result from using melted butter or overmixing the dough. Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, and mix only until the ingredients are combined.
- Question 4: Can I add chocolate chips? Adding up to 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking will not affect the structure of this recipe.