Cake Mix M&M Cookies

Soft, chewy, and bursting with color, these Cake Mix M&M Cookies are the ultimate shortcut dessert. Made with a box of vanilla or white cake mix and studded with festive red and white M&M candies, they’re perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Quick to make and impossible to resist, these cookies are as fun to bake as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies offer the ideal combination of ease and indulgence. Using cake mix as a base eliminates the need to measure out multiple dry ingredients, making this recipe perfect for beginner bakers, busy parents, or last-minute dessert needs. The cookies come out soft, chewy, and deliciously sweet, with pops of color and crunch from the M&M candies. Versatile and customizable, they’re great for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• vanilla or white cake mix (15.25 oz box)
• vegetable oil
• eggs
• vanilla extract
• red and white M&M candies (or any color of choice)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms.
3. Gently fold in the M&Ms, reserving a few to press onto the tops of the cookies before baking.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
5. Press a few of the reserved M&Ms into the tops of each dough ball to enhance appearance.
6. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked but still soft.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 20 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per cookie

Variations

• Chocolate Version: Use chocolate cake mix and regular M&Ms for a richer flavor.
• Seasonal Colors: Customize the M&M colors to match holidays like Halloween (orange & black), Christmas (red & green), or Easter (pastels).
• Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed pretzels for added texture.
• Frosted Finish: Drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate once cooled.
• Mini Cookies: Use a smaller scoop to make bite-sized cookies and reduce bake time by 1–2 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Reheating: To revive the soft texture, warm a cookie in the microwave for 5–10 seconds before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other cake mix flavors?

Yes, chocolate, funfetti, and red velvet cake mixes work beautifully with this recipe and offer new flavor combinations.

Why is my dough sticky?

Cake mix dough tends to be thick and a bit sticky. Lightly greasing your hands can help with rolling the dough into balls.

Can I chill the dough?

Yes, chilling for 15–30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better during baking, though it’s not required.

What kind of oil is best?

Use a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil for the best results without altering the flavor.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.

How do I keep the M&Ms from cracking?

Gently press the M&Ms onto the dough rather than mixing too vigorously, and avoid overbaking, which can cause cracking.

Can I use mini M&Ms?

Absolutely. Mini M&Ms distribute more evenly throughout the dough and create a colorful, speckled appearance.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be set, and the centers may look slightly soft—that’s ideal for chewy cookies. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Are these cookies suitable for mailing?

Yes, they hold their shape well and stay soft, making them a great option for care packages or cookie exchanges.

Can kids help make these cookies?

Definitely. This recipe is simple and fun, making it a great activity for children to help with mixing, shaping, and decorating.

Conclusion

Cake Mix M&M Cookies are the perfect blend of convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of colorful, soft, and chewy cookies that are great for parties, holidays, or everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe offers a foolproof way to create something festive and delicious.

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