Cake Mix Monster Cookies

Cake Mix Monster Cookies are a fun and easy twist on classic monster cookies, made with a boxed cake mix, peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and colorful candies. These soft, chewy cookies are packed with flavor and perfect for parties, bake sales, or a quick sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with a cake mix shortcut
• Soft, chewy, and loaded with mix-ins
• Perfect for customizing with your favorite candies and chocolate chips
• Great for parties, holidays, or anytime snacking
• Kid-friendly and fun to make together

Ingredients

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

• 1 box yellow or white cake mix (15.25 ounces)
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup candy-coated chocolates (like M&M’s)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oats, peanut butter, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and a thick dough forms.
3. Add Mix-Ins:
   • Gently fold in the chocolate chips and candy-coated chocolates until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   • Scoop dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop and place on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will set as they cool.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24-30 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Different Cake Mix Flavors: Try using chocolate, funfetti, or spice cake mix for a twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and omit nuts.
• Add-Ins: Mix in raisins, coconut flakes, or chopped nuts for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free oats.
• Holiday-Themed: Swap out the candy colors to match holidays like red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their softness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter work well, or use a nut-free alternative if needed.

2. Do I have to add oats to this recipe?

The oats add texture and help make the cookies chewy, but you can omit them if needed.

3. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?

Yes, adjust the size of your cookie scoops and monitor the baking time accordingly.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

5. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of extra texture to the cookies.

6. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can use a nonstick baking sheet or lightly grease your baking sheets instead.

7. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

8. Can I use mini candy-coated chocolates instead of regular-sized ones?

Yes, mini candies work great and can help ensure you get candy in every bite.

9. How do I make the cookies more festive for holidays?

Use seasonal M&M’s or sprinkle festive-colored sprinkles over the cookie dough before baking.

10. Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Butter adds flavor and helps with texture, but you can use 1/2 cup of vegetable oil as a substitute.

Conclusion

Cake Mix Monster Cookies are a quick and fun treat that combines the ease of a cake mix with the chewy goodness of monster cookies. With endless options for mix-ins and flavors, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from school lunches to holiday cookie exchanges. Whip up a batch of these colorful, chewy cookies and watch them disappear!

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