Christmas Cake Mix Cookies

Last Sunday morning, as I was sipping coffee and lazily browsing cookie recipes, Sarah came up with a spark in her eyes and asked if we could whip up some festive cookies. The thing is, Christmas isn’t just a day—it's a whole season of cozy moments and sweet treats that we all look forward to. These Christmas Cake Mix Cookies fit wonderfully into our lazy holiday baking traditions. They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and have this eye-catching burst of color that always puts a smile on Alex's face. Plus, the secret ingredient? Soda! It’s our little Manhattan twist on a classic.

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Why you'll love this recipe
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Recipe tips & variations
Storage & reheating
FAQs
Recipes you may like
Christmas Cake Mix Cookies

Check out these Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies for another fun take on holiday treats!

Why you'll love this recipe

These cookies are super easy to make, thanks to the cake mix base. They're perfect for those moments when you need delicious treats fast—like surprise visits from friends or family. The combination of M&Ms and white chocolate chips makes every bite a delightful crunch of sweetness. And if your holiday schedule is as packed as ours, you’ll appreciate their 15-minute prep time!

Ingredients

15.25 ounce box white cake mix
2 large eggs
⅓ cup clear soda (like lemon-lime soda, Ginger-Ale, or club soda)
¾ cup red and green M&Ms
½ cup white chocolate chips
Optional garnishes: sprinkles, red or green food coloring

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two sheet pans with parchment paper.
Mix the white cake mix, eggs, clear soda, and optional red or green food coloring together until fully combined.
Fold in the red and green M&Ms and white chocolate chips.
Use a 2-inch cookie scoop to drop batter onto the prepared sheet pans, leaving 2-inches of space between each cookie. Add sprinkles on top if desired.
Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the cookies are set and the edges are lightly golden.
Let them cool for 10 minutes on the pan before transferring them to a plate and serving.

Recipe tips & variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different cake mix flavors for a twist. Lemon cake mix can add a zesty punch that pairs nicely with the M&Ms. Remember, if you prefer softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on them—they should just begin to turn golden at the edges.

Storage & reheating

Keep these cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Christmas Cake Mix Cookies with different flavors of cake mix?

Absolutely! Try chocolate, vanilla, or even spice cake mix for unique flavor variations. Just match the mix with complementary garnishes for festive flair.

Why do these Christmas Cake Mix Cookies use soda instead of oil or butter?

We use soda to keep the cookies light and fluffy, plus it’s a fun and easy swap that’s perfect for those who want to cut back on butter without sacrificing flavor.

How do I keep Christmas Cake Mix Cookies soft and fluffy after baking?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread will help maintain moisture, keeping your cookies satisfyingly soft.

Can I freeze Christmas Cake Mix Cookies for holiday prep?

Yes, indeed! Freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time straight from the freezer.

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Explore other tasty creations to keep your oven busy this season: