Ingredients
- White or Yellow Cake Mix (1 standard box)This provides the necessary foundation for the cookies, ensuring structure and sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup)Adding extra flour thickens the batter, shifting the texture from cake-like to a chewy cookie consistency.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted)Melting the butter helps create that signature moist and rich texture, but ensure it is slightly cooled before use.
- Large Eggs (2 standard size)Eggs bind the ingredients together and add richness and structure to the finished cookie.
- Non-Alcoholic Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)Enhances the overall sweet flavor profile; use a quality extract for the best taste.
- Milk (2 tablespoons, dairy or non-dairy)A small splash of milk ensures the dough is moist enough without becoming too sticky to scoop.
- Christmas Sprinkles (1/2 cup + extra for topping)Use festive red, green, and white sprinkles or jimmies for the ultimate visual flair.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Oven and PanPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
- Step 2: Combine Dry IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the entire box of cake mix and the extra half cup of all-purpose flour. This step guarantees the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, leading to consistent cookie texture.
- Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients and Form the DoughPour the cooled melted butter, eggs, and non-alcoholic vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until a thick dough forms, scraping down the sides as necessary. Stir in the two tablespoons of milk if the dough appears too dry. Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles by hand, ensuring they are evenly incorporated without overmixing.
- Step 4: Scoop and DecorateUse a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) to drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Take a few extra sprinkles and gently press them onto the top surface of each dough ball for maximum color payoff.
- Step 5: Bake and CoolBake for 9 to 12 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges look lightly set and slightly golden, but the centers still appear slightly soft. Remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Keep these cookies fresh for up to 5 days by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring layers are separated with wax paper if stacked.
- If you crave that gooey, fresh-baked center, pop a single cookie in the microwave for 8 to 10 seconds just before enjoying.
- Serve these festive cookies alongside a steaming mug of rich hot chocolate or paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the perfect holiday treat.
- To guarantee thick, chewy cookies, ensure your melted butter is completely cooled before mixing it with the eggs, which prevents premature spreading in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American