Cake Mix Cookie Bars Recipe

These Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a quick, easy, and delicious dessert made with just a few ingredients! Soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips (or your favorite mix-ins), these cookie bars come together in minutes and are perfect for parties, bake sales, or a simple sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy – Uses a cake mix for a foolproof recipe.
• Soft and chewy texture – Perfectly baked cookie bars every time.
• Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles.
• Quick prep – Just 5 minutes of prep and no chilling required.
• Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, parties, or an easy dessert.

Ingredients

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

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips (or mix-ins of choice)

Optional Mix-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• ½ cup M&M’s or sprinkles
• ½ cup white chocolate or peanut butter chips
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm flavor twist)

Directions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Mix the batter:

• In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
• Stir until a thick dough forms (it will be thicker than regular cake batter).
• Fold in chocolate chips or any desired mix-ins.

3. Assemble and bake:

• Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool and serve:

• Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12–16 bars
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Cake Mix Bars: Use a devil’s food or chocolate cake mix for a rich, fudgy version.
• Funfetti Bars: Use a Funfetti cake mix and add extra sprinkles for a colorful treat.
• Peanut Butter Lover’s: Add ½ cup peanut butter chips and drizzle with melted peanut butter.
• Holiday-Themed Bars: Mix in red and green M&M’s for Christmas, or pastel sprinkles for Easter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! Vanilla, chocolate, Funfetti, or even red velvet all work well.

How do I make the bars extra chewy?

Slightly underbake them and let them cool in the pan before cutting.

Can I make these with oil instead of butter?

Yes, substitute ½ cup vegetable oil for the melted butter.

Can I add frosting?

Absolutely! A layer of buttercream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache would be delicious.

How do I prevent the bars from being too dry?

Do not overbake! Check at 20 minutes, and remove once the center is just set.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger pan (11×17-inch) and adjust the baking time as needed.

What can I serve with these bars?

They pair perfectly with ice cream, whipped cream, or a glass of milk.

Can I use homemade cake mix?

Yes! Just use about 2 ½ cups of homemade dry cake mix in place of the boxed mix.

How do I make these bars thicker?

Use a 9×9-inch pan for thicker bars and bake an extra 5 minutes.

Can I add oats for a cookie-like texture?

Yes! Add ½ cup quick oats for a more textured bar.

Conclusion

These Cake Mix Cookie Bars are the ultimate easy dessert—soft, chewy, and packed with flavor! Whether you customize them with chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple homemade treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy a delicious, effortless dessert!

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