Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cake Mix Recipe
Chocolate chip cookies with cake mix: a delightful shortcut to soft, chewy cookies. This easy recipe creates a treat perfect for quick baking or simple desserts.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. A set of various sizes accommodates different stages of preparation.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results.
- Electric Mixer (optional): A stand or hand mixer expedites the mixing process, but it can be done manually.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides a flat surface for the cookies to bake evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents cookies from sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop (optional): Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Oven: A calibrated oven is necessary for consistent baking temperatures.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) cake mix (vanilla, yellow, or chocolate)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step ensures the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
- Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and eggs until well combined. Ensure the butter has cooled slightly before adding the eggs to prevent them from cooking. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
- Step 3: Add Cake Mix: Pour the cake mix into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tougher cookies. The batter will be thick.
- Step 4: Stir in Chocolate Chips: Add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract (if using) to the batter. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Ensure an even distribution for consistent flavor in each cookie.
- Step 5: Drop onto Baking Sheet: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes. These cookies spread slightly while baking.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Baking time may vary depending on the oven. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture.
- Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy. Tips: For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of melted butter. Substitute different types of chocolate chips or add nuts, sprinkles, or other mix-ins for variations.
Notes
Variations
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Cake Mix: Chocolate, strawberry, or red velvet cake mixes can replace vanilla or yellow cake mix for different flavors.
- Chocolate Chips: White chocolate, dark chocolate, or peanut butter chips can be substituted for semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Add-ins: Nuts, dried fruit, pretzels, or sprinkles can be added for added texture and flavor.
- Regional Twists:
- Mexican Chocolate Cookies: Add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Cookies: Use lemon cake mix and add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy flavor.
- Peanut Butter Cup Cookies: Use chocolate cake mix and add mini peanut butter cups to the batter.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter alternatives and chocolate chips.
- Vegan: Substitute the eggs with applesauce or flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar-free cake mix and sugar-free chocolate chips, though texture and flavor may be affected.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate chip cookies with cake mix are versatile and suitable for various occasions. They can be served as a casual snack, a simple dessert after a meal, or as part of a larger dessert spread. These cookies pair well with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea. For a more indulgent treat, they can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They are also an excellent addition to party platters, bake sales, or as a homemade gift.
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, chocolate chip cookies with cake mix should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored cookies will remain fresh for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh slightly stale cookies, warm them in the oven at 300F (150C) for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use oil instead of butter?Answer: Yes, vegetable oil or coconut oil can be used as a substitute for melted butter, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cookies.
- Question 2: Can I freeze the cookie dough?Answer: Yes, the cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
- Question 3: Why are my cookies flat?Answer: Flat cookies can result from using melted butter that is too hot, overmixing the batter, or using too little flour. Ensure the butter has cooled slightly before mixing and avoid overmixing.
- Question 4: Can I use a sugar-free cake mix?Answer: Yes, a sugar-free cake mix can be used, but it may alter the texture and sweetness of the cookies. It is recommended to monitor the baking time closely to avoid overbaking.