Cake Mix Monster Cookies are a fun, colorful, and irresistibly chewy treat that combines the ease of cake mix with the classic elements of monster cookies. Packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and candy-coated chocolates, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from bake sales to holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Using cake mix simplifies the baking process, cutting down on prep time.
- Soft and chewy – The combination of cake mix and oats results in a perfectly textured cookie.
- Packed with flavor – A delicious mix of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and M&M’s makes every bite exciting.
- Customizable – Easily swap out mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for any occasion – These cookies are a hit at parties, school events, or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Yellow or white cake mix
- Quick oats
- Eggs
- Peanut butter
- Butter, melted
- Vanilla extract
- Brown sugar
- Baking soda
- Chocolate chips
- M&M’s
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, mix the cake mix, oats, baking soda, brown sugar, melted butter, peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Fold in mix-ins – Stir in chocolate chips and M&M’s.
- Shape cookies – Scoop out dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool – Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Different Cake Mixes: Try chocolate or funfetti cake mix for a twist.
- Add-Ins: Mix in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or mini marshmallows.
- Healthier Version: Use natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar slightly.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
FAQs
How do I keep my cookies soft and chewy?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly chewier.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free oats.
What can I use instead of M&M’s?
Try Reese’s Pieces, chopped chocolate bars, or white chocolate chips.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, chilling isn’t necessary, but it can help prevent spreading.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, it adds extra texture to the cookies.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to use melted butter that has cooled slightly before mixing.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Butter gives a better flavor, but you can use vegetable oil if needed.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
Cake Mix Monster Cookies are an easy, fun, and delicious treat that brings together all the best cookie ingredients in one bite. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try different mix-ins to make them your own and enjoy every chewy, chocolatey bite!
PrintCake Mix Monster Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cake Mix Monster Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter, chocolate chips, and colorful M&M’s! Using cake mix makes them extra easy to whip up, and they have the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft center. Great for parties, bake sales, or just a fun treat!
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup quick oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup M&M’s
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix together the cake mix, melted butter, peanut butter, eggs, vanilla, and baking soda in a large bowl until well combined.
- Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, and M&M’s until evenly distributed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy! Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
- You can swap yellow cake mix for chocolate or funfetti cake mix for a different flavor.
- Use mini M&M’s for even more candy in every bite!
- If you prefer crunchy cookies, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
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