Name: Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix ((15.25 ounce)); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 large eggs ((room temperature)); to taste powdered sugar ((optional for dusting))

There’s something undeniably delightful about cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with citrusy flavor. If you’re looking for a quick and easy treat that will make your taste buds sing, look no further than these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies! With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms a simple box of cake mix into a batch of cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering or just craving a sweet indulgence, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but they also deliver a bright and refreshing flavor that is hard to resist. The cake mix provides a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, while the added lemon zest takes the flavor to the next level. Plus, they require minimal ingredients and can be made in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Trust me, once you make these cookies, they will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire!

What’s in the Bowl

To create these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix – This is the star of the show, providing sweetness and flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps give the cookies that perfect rise.
½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cookies moist and soft.
1 tablespoon lemon zest – Adds an extra kick of lemony goodness.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Binds the ingredients together.
Powdered sugar (optional for dusting) – For a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

What’s in the Gear List

Before diving into the baking process, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
Whisk or spatula – To mix everything together smoothly.
Baking sheet – A sturdy surface for baking your cookies.
Parchment paper – Optional, but makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Cookie scoop or tablespoon – To portion out your cookie dough evenly.

From Start to Finish: Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies

Making these delicious Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to bake your batch:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon cake mix and baking powder. This will help to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the mix.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the vegetable oil, lemon zest, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or whisk to combine everything until you have a smooth dough. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch them closely, as you want the edges to be set while the centers remain soft.

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Year-Round Variations

These Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies are versatile and can be customized for any season or occasion. Consider trying these variations:

Add a Glaze – Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra burst of flavor.
Incorporate Berries – Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Mix in White Chocolate Chips – For a decadent touch, add some white chocolate chips to the dough.
Use Dried Orange Slices – Enhance the citrus flavor by incorporating Dried Orange Slices into the batter.

Little Things that Matter

When making these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, there are a few little tips that can enhance your baking experience:

Room Temperature Eggs – Using eggs at room temperature helps to create a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix – Mixing just until combined ensures that your cookies stay tender.
Experiment with Zest – Feel free to add more lemon zest for a stronger lemon flavor.
Use Fresh Lemons – Freshly grated lemon zest will always yield better flavor than pre-packaged options.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment:

Storing Cookies – Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing Dough – You can freeze cookie dough balls for up to three months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
Baking from Frozen – If baking from frozen, add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for lemon cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or orange for a unique twist.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when the edges appear set and lightly golden, while the centers should look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your cookie dough is too sticky to work with, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and handle.

Can I omit the powdered sugar dusting?

Yes, the powdered sugar dusting is optional. Feel free to skip it or substitute with a light glaze for added sweetness.

Desserts to Finish

If you love these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, you might also enjoy these delightful desserts:

Dark Chocolate Orange Cookies – A rich and zesty chocolate treat.
Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe – A bright and buttery dessert with a tart kick.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, it’s time to share them with friends and family. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served at a gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to savor the moment—each bite is a little piece of sunshine!

Indulge in the soft, chewy texture and bright citrus flavor that makes these cookies so special. Happy baking!