Cake Batter Christmas Cookies: The Best Holiday Treats to Share

Name: Cake Batter Christmas Cookies: The Best Holiday Treats to Share
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box cake mix; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sprinkles

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Ilyanna A.

Published:

December 17

Introduction to Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

When the holiday season rolls around, it’s all about indulging in those delicious treats that fill our homes with warmth and flavor. One standout contender is none other than cake batter Christmas cookies. These delightful bites blend the nostalgia of cake batter with the festive spirit of Christmas, creating a cookie that’s not only easy to make but also irresistibly delicious.

Why Cake Batter Christmas Cookies are a Holiday Treat

You might ask, what makes cake batter Christmas cookies so special during the holidays? For starters, they embody the essence of celebration. The moment you crack open a jar of sprinkles or the sweet scent of vanilla wafts through the kitchen, it instantly elevates your mood and sets the stage for festive baking.

Quick and Easy: With a recipe that requires minimal ingredients, these cookies are perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. Imagine whipping up a batch while catching up on your favorite holiday movie—sounds delightful, right?
Customization: Whether you prefer chocolate chips, festive red and green sprinkles, or even a dash of peppermint extract, the options are endless. You can easily tailor these cookies to suit your taste. For a great guide on cookie variations, check out resources from The Spruce Eats.
Family Fun: Baking together with friends or family brings about a sense of community that’s especially cherished during the holiday season. What better way to bond than over a bowl of colorful batter and laughter?

A little magic happens when you bake these cookies—the combination of cake mix and cookie dough creates a chewy, soft texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, the vibrant colors make them a hit at any holiday gathering.

And for those who are conscious about their ingredients, you can easily swap traditional elements for healthier alternatives or even make these cookies gluten-free. The beauty of cake batter Christmas cookies is their versatility, making them a wonderful choice for festive celebrations.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create your own batch of cake batter Christmas cookies. After all, the joy of baking is just as sweet as the treats you’ll enjoy!

Ingredients for Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

Creating delicious cake batter Christmas cookies is not just about following a recipe; it’s about gathering the right ingredients that bring joy to your holiday baking. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch that’ll dazzle friends and family:

1 box of cake mix: Choose your favorite flavor, but vanilla or funfetti adds a festive touch.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for that perfect blend.
2 large eggs: They help in binding the cookie mixture together.
1 cup chocolate chips: Go for semi-sweet for that rich, sweet contrast.
Sprinkles: A splash of color that screams festive cheer!
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm flavor that enhances the cake batter taste.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Ensures your cookies rise beautifully.

These simple yet delightful ingredients pave the way for cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. For further inspiration and tips, you can check out resources like the Baker’s Association or Food Network. Happy baking!

Preparing Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

The holiday season is the perfect time to get your baking game on, and what could be more festive than a batch of delicious cake batter Christmas cookies? These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them a delightful treat for any holiday gathering. Let’s walk through the steps to create these scrumptious cookies that will not only fill your home with a wonderful aroma but also spread joy to everyone who gets a taste!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into mixing, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a nice touch!)
4 cups cake mix (your favorite flavor will do)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups mix-ins (chocolate chips, sprinkles, or festive candies)

Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial, as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour. This ensures that every cookie rises perfectly and has an even flavor.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The creaming process is essential, as it incorporates air into the mix, helping your cake batter Christmas cookies become airy and soft.

Add the Egg and Extracts

Once your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed, it’s time to add the eggs and extracts. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully mixed, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. The extracts will layer in flavor, adding a lovely aroma to your cookies.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to denser cookies.

Fold in the Mix-ins

Now comes the fun part—adding your mix-ins! Whether you choose chocolate chips, festive candy pieces, or colorful sprinkles, fold them in gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chill the Dough

For the best texture, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill your cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to solidify the fats in the dough, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Cookie Sheets

As the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and cleanup.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Once chilled, scoop the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place them on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, keeping in mind that cookies continue to bake on the sheet after they come out of the oven.

Cool and Prepare the Frosting

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare your favorite frosting. A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting works great!

Frost the Cookies When Cooled

Once the cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to frost them! Spread a generous amount of frosting over each cookie and top with extra sprinkles or festive decorations for that holiday cheer.

And just like that, you’ve made a batch of delightful cake batter Christmas cookies! Share them with friends, family, or coworkers and bask in the holiday spirit. Happy baking!

Variations on Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

When the holiday season rolls around, cake batter Christmas cookies can become a delightful staple in your baking repertoire. But why stop at just one version? Let’s explore some scrumptious variations that put a spin on the classic recipe!

Chocolate Chip Cake Batter Cookies

Who can resist the comforting combination of chocolate chips and cake batter? To make chocolate chip cake batter cookies, simply fold in a generous cup of your favorite chocolate chips into the batter before baking. These cookies will have that rich, sweet flavor profile that chocolate lovers crave, plus a lovely chewy texture that feels like biting into a soft cloud of holiday magic.

Gluten-Free Cake Batter Cookies

For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences, rest assured: you can still enjoy cake batter Christmas cookies with a gluten-free twist! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free blend. Make sure to check that your sprinkles—those colorful festive gems—are gluten-free as well. You won’t miss the gluten at all; these cookies will be just as delicious and festive as their traditional counterparts.

Red Velvet Cake Batter Cookies

Last but not least, how about trying red velvet cake batter cookies? This option brings a lovely holiday spirit with its vibrant red hue. Use red velvet cake mix instead of the standard yellow or vanilla for this variation. A dash of cocoa powder and a sprinkle of white chocolate chips will perfectly complement the red, creating a visually stunning treat that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Incorporating these variations into your baking plans can lighten the holiday stress while still leaving you with a plateful of joy! So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let the holiday baking begin!

Baking Notes for Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

Importance of Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough before baking your cake batter Christmas cookies is a crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked. By allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, you help the flavors meld together and prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. This simple addition to your baking routine results in thicker, softer cookies that maintain their delightful shape. It’s like giving your dough a little timeout to reflect on its delicious potential!

Perfect Baking Time for Chewy Cookies

For cookies that strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft, aim for about 10 to 12 minutes in a preheated oven. Keep a close eye on them! They may look slightly underbaked when you take them out, but they’ll continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet. If you want to ensure that each batch comes out just right, consider rotating your baking sheets midway through for even baking. A little patience goes a long way in achieving that dreamy, gooey center!

For further baking tips, check out Baking Techniques and explore insights on achieving the ultimate cookie texture.

Serving suggestions for Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

Create Festive Cookie Platters

One of the joys of the holiday season is assembling colorful cookie platters, and cake batter Christmas cookies are perfect for this! Imagine vibrant cookies adorned with sprinkles, stacked amongst other festive treats like gingerbread or peppermint bark. For an added touch, consider using seasonal themed trays – think snowflakes or Christmas trees! You can even wrap them in cellophane and tie them with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful gift or party treat. Not only will this delight your guests, but it’s also a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering.

Perfect Pairings with Hot Cocoa or Milk

What’s better than enjoying your cake batter Christmas cookies alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa or a classic glass of milk? The rich flavors of your cookies perfectly complement the creamy textures of these beverages. For a fun twist, try adding marshmallows or whipped cream to your cocoa. This dynamic duo can elevate your cozy evening, making every bite and sip a little more indulgent. Want to learn how to make the perfect hot cocoa? Check out this comprehensive guide by The Kitchn for delicious variations.

So, gather your friends, whip up some of these delightful cookies, and enjoy the sweet moments of the festive season!

Tips for Making Perfect Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

Using High-Quality Chocolate Chips

When it comes to making your cake batter Christmas cookies stand out, the chocolate chips can make all the difference. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips—go for brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard, which offer rich flavor and smooth texture. Did you know that semi-sweet chocolate chips tend to melt beautifully and create lovely swirls in your cookie batter? If you’re a fan of variety, mix in some white chocolate or even dark chocolate chunks for that gourmet touch. This little twist transforms your cookies from good to extraordinarily delicious! For tips on selecting the best chocolate, check out resources from Serious Eats.

Customizing Sprinkles for a Festive Touch

Sprinkles are an easy way to add that holiday sparkle to your cake batter Christmas cookies. Instead of generic sprinkles, consider customizing your mix with fun shapes, like stars or Christmas trees. Look for natural, colorful options that won’t just look good but also taste great. A dash of edible glitter can catch the eye and elevate your cookie aesthetics. Remember, presentation is just as important as taste! The best part? You can express your holiday spirit in whatever colors you choose. So whether you’re baking for a party or just treating yourself, let those sprinkles shine! For some great ideas on festive baking, visit Martha Stewart.

Time details for Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

When it comes to whipping up a batch of delightful cake batter Christmas cookies, knowing the time details is essential for planning. Let’s break it down:

Preparation time

You’ll spend about 15 minutes mixing the ingredients together. It’s a simple process—just gather your supplies and enjoy the festive vibes while you blend the dry and wet ingredients.

Chill time

To get that perfect texture, these cookies benefit from at least 30 minutes of chill time in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld together and prevents spreading during baking.

Baking time

Pop these sweet treats in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Just keep an eye on them; you want them to be soft but not doughy!

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour from start to finish, including preparation, chill, and baking times. Perfect for squeezing into your holiday baking schedule!

For more tips on cookie baking, check out this resource on baking tips. Enjoy the process!

Nutritional Information for Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

When you indulge in cake batter Christmas cookies, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional information to help you savor the festivities mindfully.

Calories per cookie

Each cookie typically contains around 120 calories. That’s about the same as a medium apple! Perfect for enjoying a few during your holiday festivities without feeling too guilty.

Sugar content

These cookies bring on the sweetness, with approximately 10 grams of sugar each. While they’re a delightful treat, being aware of the sugar content can help you balance them with other less sweet snacks.

Fat content

You can expect around 5 grams of fat per cookie. Most of this is from the fats used in the batter, so it’s an occasional indulgence that fits nicely into a balanced diet.

For more in-depth nutritional tips, check out sources like the USDA National Nutrient Database or the American Heart Association. Enjoy every bite!

FAQs about Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about cake batter Christmas cookies is their versatility. While vanilla cake mix is a classic choice, feel free to get creative. Chocolate, red velvet, or even lemon cake mix can add a delightful twist to your cookies. Just remember that different flavors may alter the overall sweetness, so you might want to adjust the sugar slightly depending on your chosen mix.

How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cake batter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay soft and delicious for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them to increase their longevity. For optimal freshness, you can also layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Freezing cookie dough is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh-baked cookies anytime. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer the dough balls into a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time; this way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked cake batter Christmas cookies at a moment’s notice!

For more tips on cookie storage and freezing, check out the USDA’s Food Safety Guidelines. Happy baking!

Conclusion on Cake Batter Christmas Cookies

As we wrap up our exploration of cake batter Christmas cookies, it’s clear that these delightful treats can elevate any festive gathering. Their vibrant colors and soft, chewy texture make them a fun addition to your holiday dessert table. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies bring joy with every bite.

Don’t forget to customize them with your favorite sprinkles or chocolate chips for a personal touch! And if you’re looking for even more cookie inspiration, check out other festive recipes on popular baking sites. Happy baking, and may your holidays be as sweet as these cookies!