If you’re looking for a delightful treat that encapsulates the sweet and tangy essence of strawberries, these Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies are perfect for you! Bursting with flavors and a rich, creamy texture, these cookies are not only simple to make but also require minimal ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The vibrant pink hue and the addition of white chocolate chips and M&Ms make these cookies a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with the unmistakable taste of strawberries complemented by creamy notes of cream cheese, all laced with sweetness from chocolate treats. These cookies are bound to impress your family and friends at any gathering!
The best part? This recipe requires just a few steps and a short prep time, giving you more time to enjoy the delicious results. Perfect for birthday parties, picnics, or just an afternoon treat, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch of these Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies. Plus, with every bite, you’ll experience a taste of summer, no matter the season! Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that blends convenience with amazing flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies
- Quick and Easy: Uses cake mix for a fast, hassle-free baking experience.
- Flavorful: Combines the fruity taste of strawberries with creamy cream cheese and the sweetness of chocolate.
- Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy cookies that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, holidays, or simply treating yourself!
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe that kids can help with, making baking a family activity.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you embark on the sweet journey of whipping up these Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies, it’s vital to set the stage for a successful bake. Start by ensuring your kitchen is clean and your countertop clear of any clutter to provide a spacious workspace as you mix your ingredients together.
You’ll need some essential tools: a large mixing bowl for combining your dough, a measuring cup for accurate ingredient measurements, a spatula for mixing, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It’s also recommended to have an oven thermometer on hand to check that your oven reaches the correct temperature, as even a small variance can affect the outcome of your cookies. Furthermore, it’s crucial to have butter and cream cheese at room temperature to blend smoothly into the batter, ensuring your cookies are light and fluffy.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces strawberry cake mix
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup white chocolate chips
- ¾ cup M&Ms
Instructions
Step 1: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining melted butter, room-temperature egg, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese. Use a spatula or whisk to mix these ingredients until they are well incorporated and form a smooth, creamy mixture. This step is crucial as it sets the base for the cookies, ensuring a rich texture and delightful flavor.
Step 2: Adding Cake Mix
Next, gradually add the strawberry cake mix to the wet mixture. It’s advisable to add half of the cake mix at a time, mixing thoroughly before adding the next half. This method helps in preventing clumps and ensures an even distribution of ingredients. Your cookie dough should be soft and slightly sticky at this stage, which is perfectly normal.
Step 3: Mixing In the Sweet Additions
Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and M&Ms using a spatula. Ensure that the candies are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating pockets of sweetness in every bite. This step not only adds flavor but also gives your cookies a lovely colorful appearance.
Step 4: Chilling the Dough
Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling the dough is essential because it allows the flavors to meld and gives the cookies a better shape while baking. If you’re short on time, chilling for 30 minutes should suffice, although longer is better for optimal results.
Step 5: Baking the Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Scoop out the cookie dough and roll it into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each. Bake these beauties in the preheated oven for about 9 to 10 minutes. Watch closely — the tops should not brown, but the bottoms may be lightly golden. After baking, be sure to let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Protein: Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded zucchini for added moisture and nutrients.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm flavor note.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, ensure all dairy products are at room temperature before starting.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic comfort treat.
- Serve as a fun dessert at kids’ birthday parties or summer picnics.
Tips
- Experiment with different brands of cake mix for varied flavors.
- Try adding a dash of lemon juice for a refreshing zing to balance the sweetness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
- Protein: 2 grams
- Sodium: 100 milligrams
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes! You can easily substitute the strawberry cake mix with any other flavor, like vanilla or chocolate, for a delicious twist.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Just scoop out the dough balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but be aware that it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies are not just simple to make; they’re bursting with delightful flavors that everyone will love! Whether you’re indulging in them yourself or sharing them at a gathering, each bite brings joy and the taste of homemade goodness. Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own, and don’t forget to share the love by encouraging your friends and family to try them as well! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, and happy baking!
Print
Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 16 ounces strawberry cake mix
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup white chocolate chips
- ¾ cup M&Ms
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, start by combining melted butter, room-temperature egg, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese. Use a spatula or whisk to mix these ingredients until they are well incorporated and form a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Next, gradually add the strawberry cake mix to the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and M&Ms using a spatula.
- Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), scoop the dough into balls, and bake for about 9 to 10 minutes.
Notes
For best results, ensure all dairy products are at room temperature before starting, and store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Protein: 2 g