These strawberry cake mix cookies are soft, chewy, and beautifully pink, made with just a handful of pantry staples. Using a boxed cake mix as the base keeps things quick and easy while still delivering bakery-style cookies that look festive and taste delicious. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple sweet craving, this recipe proves that homemade treats don’t have to be complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe comes together with minimal effort and very little prep time. There’s no need to measure flour or sugar, and the dough is mixed in one bowl. The cookies bake up tender and chewy with a gentle strawberry flavor and a fun pop of color. They’re easy to customize with mix-ins or toppings, making them great for any occasion, from casual snacks to special celebrations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 package strawberry cake mix (15.25 ounces)
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, add the strawberry cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until a thick, smooth dough forms and no dry streaks remain.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and stay soft and chewy.

Once chilled, scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Gently flatten each mound of dough using your fingers or the lightly greased bottom of a measuring cup. Sprinkle the tops with sprinkles if using.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are just set and the centers look slightly soft.

Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chilling time.
Bake time is 10 to 12 minutes per batch.
Total time is about 50 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

For extra sweetness, mix in 1/2 cup of white or milk chocolate chips before chilling the dough.
To make crinkle-style cookies, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking.
For a chocolate-strawberry twist, dip the cooled cookies halfway into melted chocolate and let them set.
You can also top the cooled cookies with a light layer of strawberry frosting for a more decorative dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary, but a few seconds at room temperature will soften them nicely.

FAQs

Can I use a different brand of strawberry cake mix?

Yes, any standard 15 to 16-ounce strawberry cake mix will work well in this recipe.

Do these cookies taste strongly like strawberry?

The flavor is mild and sweet with a gentle strawberry note rather than an overpowering taste.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and keeps them soft and chewy.

Can I skip the sprinkles?

Absolutely. The sprinkles are optional and only for decoration.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be set while the centers still look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add food coloring to make them pinker?

Yes, a few drops of pink food coloring can be mixed into the dough if you want a brighter color.

Are these cookies crunchy or soft?

They are soft and chewy with a tender center.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches as needed.

Do these cookies need frosting?

No, they’re delicious on their own, but frosting can be added for a more decadent treat.

Conclusion

Strawberry cake mix cookies are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a standout dessert. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and endless customization options, this recipe is ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Soft, colorful, and crowd-pleasing, these cookies are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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