Looking for a quick dessert that’s festive, fun, and irresistibly chewy? This Cake Mix Cookie Cake is the ultimate celebration treat that comes together in no time using a box of cake mix! With gooey chocolate chips, bright rainbow sprinkles, and a rich chocolate frosting border, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite perfect for quick dessert ideas, birthday parties, or just because. Whether you’re in need of a quick bake, easy cookie cake recipe, or a new birthday cake idea, this one checks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and style.
This delightful dessert not only saves you time but packs in a whole lot of fun too. Its vibrant colors and enticing chocolatey goodness make it a must-have for any occasion. Imagine a cake bursting with flavor, boasting a soft and chewy texture that just melts in your mouth. The addition of chocolate chips and sprinkles creates a delightful surprise in every bite, ensuring that each slice is as joyful as the last. It’s perfect for those last-minute celebrations or as a sweet indulgence after dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Cake Mix Cookie Cake
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to whip up, making it an excellent choice for busy bakers or last-minute dessert needs.
- Customizable: Switch up the cake mix flavor or add different mix-ins to suit your preference.
- Kid-Friendly: This is a fun baking activity that children will love, especially with the colorful sprinkles and delicious frosting.
- Festive Appearance: It’s visually appealing and perfect for birthday parties or holiday gatherings.
- Deliciously Chewy: The cookie cake stays soft and gooey, providing a delightful texture that everyone enjoys.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making this delightful cake, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the sides of the pan to ensure the cake easily releases after baking.
You’ll need basic baking tools such as a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula for folding in the chocolate chips and sprinkles, and an electric mixer for the frosting. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and fun. Be sure to have some extra sprinkles on hand for decoration! It’s also a good idea to have all your ingredients at room temperature before you start. This helps in mixing and achieving the perfect consistency for your cookie cake.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper. Lightly grease the sides of the pan to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for a smooth release after baking, ensuring your cookie cake retains its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the box of yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed to combine ingredients until just mixed. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If the dough seems dry, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve a moist, cohesive mix.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles
Next, fold in your chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles. Take your time with this step to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The colors of the sprinkles and the melty chocolate chips will make every slice extra delicious and visually appealing!
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Once your dough is ready, press it evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to spread it out to the corners so you have a uniform cookie cake. Place it in the preheated oven to bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn golden brown and the center is just set. Remember not to overbake; you want to maintain that perfect chewy texture!
Step 5: Cool and Prepare Frosting
After baking, allow your cookie cake to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial because adding frosting to a warm cake can cause it to melt. While it cools, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter with an electric mixer until fluffy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once the cookie cake is completely cool, pipe the frosting around the edges for a decorative touch. You can use a piping bag or simply spread it with a spatula. For an extra festive look, sprinkle more rainbow sprinkles on top of the frosting. Finally, slice the cookie cake into wedges and serve to your delighted guests!
Variations
- Protein: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Vegetables: Try adding shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spices: Enhance the flavors by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Cooking Notes
- Don’t overbake! The center should be just set to keep it soft and chewy.
- Always cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting.
- You can easily swap cake mix flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla, depending on your preference.
- This cookie cake can also be made in a rectangular baking dish for a different presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Tips
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought frosting instead of making your own.
- Store leftover cookie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This cake can also be frozen for later enjoyment; just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer!
- Experiment with themed sprinkles for holidays or special occasions to make it extra festive!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 290 per slice
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chocolate, vanilla, or even a funfetti cake mix for different flavor profiles.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cookie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week.
Can I freeze the cookie cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie cake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I substitute for the eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/4 cup of yogurt per egg. This will help retain moisture.
Conclusion
This Cake Mix Cookie Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a festival of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the sprinkles combined with the rich chocolatey goodness creates a moment of joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to share your creations, try out variations, and most importantly, enjoy this delightful cookie cake with family and friends. Whether for a birthday celebration, a get-together, or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit!
Print
Cake Mix Cookie Cake
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Cake Mix Cookie Cake is a fun and festive dessert that combines gooey chocolate chips and bright rainbow sprinkles for a delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until just mixed.
- Fold in chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the cookie cake cool completely and prepare the frosting by mixing softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cookie cake and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 per slice
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 2 g