Name: Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15.25 oz chocolate cake mix (dry, no added ingredients); ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for chewier texture)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and effortless cookie recipe that still delivers rich chocolate flavor and a soft, chewy texture, these Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are exactly what you need. Using a boxed chocolate cake mix as the base makes this recipe a fantastic shortcut without compromising on taste. With just a few additional ingredients, you can whip up a batch of indulgent cookies that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an after-school treat, a party snack, or a simple dessert to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving, ideal for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. The vegetable oil keeps the cookies moist, while the eggs bind everything together perfectly. Adding semi-sweet chocolate chips boosts the chocolate experience with melty bursts of goodness in every bite. If you prefer an even chewier texture, the optional cornstarch is a simple trick to enhance softness and give the cookies a tender bite. These cookies bake quickly, making them a great last-minute dessert or snack option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Super Easy and Fast

Only a few ingredients and minimal prep time needed.

2. Rich Chocolate Flavor

Using cake mix and chocolate chips creates deep, chocolatey cookies.

3. Soft and Chewy Texture

Optional cornstarch adds chewiness; otherwise perfectly tender.

4. Great for Beginners

No complicated steps, perfect for novice bakers or kids.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Add nuts, different chips, or drizzle with frosting if desired.

Ingredients

Chocolate cake mix (dry, do not add box ingredients)
Vegetable oil

Large eggs
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cornstarch (optional)

Variations

Nutty Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies

Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

White Chocolate Chip

Swap semi-sweet chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.

Peanut Butter Swirl

Add dollops of peanut butter into the dough before baking for a marbled effect.

Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make the cookies gluten-free.

Frosted Cookies

Once cooled, top with your favorite frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the dry chocolate cake mix and cornstarch if using.

Step 3

Add vegetable oil and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Step 6

Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers still look soft.

Step 7

Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overmix the dough to keep cookies tender.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Slightly underbake for softer cookies; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Refrigerate dough if it feels too soft before baking to prevent spreading.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor if desired.

How to Serve

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage like coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with ice cream for a simple dessert treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven to soften.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, vanilla or red velvet cake mixes also work well.

2. What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Cornstarch is optional; the cookies will still be soft without it.

3. Can I substitute vegetable oil with butter?

Butter can be used but may change the texture slightly.

4. How big should I make the cookie dough balls?

About one tablespoon-sized scoops work best for even baking.

5. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely, nuts, different chips, or dried fruit are great additions.

6. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Chill the dough before baking or reduce the oil slightly.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.

8. How do I store the cookie dough?

Wrap tightly and refrigerate up to 3 days before baking.

9. Can I make these dairy-free?

Check your cake mix ingredients; substitute oil with dairy-free options as needed.

10. Are these cookies chewy or cakey?

They have a soft, chewy texture, especially if cornstarch is added.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are a quick, delicious way to satisfy your chocolate cravings without the fuss of a complicated recipe. Using pantry staples and a boxed cake mix, you can create soft, chewy cookies packed with chocolate chips that everyone will love. Perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs, these cookies combine convenience and flavor effortlessly.