If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and irresistibly soft lemon cookies with cake mix, this recipe is perfect! Moreover, with just a few simple ingredients, you can make deliciously chewy, bakery-style lemon cookies in no time.
Furthermore, you don’t need to measure flour, baking soda, or other dry ingredients—the cake mix does all the work for you! Whether you’re making them for a party, a special treat, or just to satisfy a lemon craving, these cookies will be a hit.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
- Super Easy – Just 4-5 simple ingredients!
- Soft & Chewy – Perfectly tender with a slight crisp on the edges.
- Bright Lemon Flavor – Bursting with citrusy goodness.
- No Chill Time – Ready in less than 20 minutes.
- Versatile – Add white chocolate chips, lemon zest, or glaze for extra flavor!
So, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients for Lemon Cookies with Cake Mix
Base Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix – The secret to an easy, foolproof cookie.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind everything together.
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil or melted butter – Adds moisture and softness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional) – For a fresh, citrusy boost.
Optional Additions & Toppings
- ½ cup white chocolate chips – Adds sweetness and texture.
- Powdered sugar (for rolling) – Creates a crinkle cookie look.
- Lemon glaze – Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar & lemon juice.
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds – Adds a fun texture and flavor twist.
Necessary Tools for Making Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
- Mixing Bowl – To combine ingredients easily.
- Hand Mixer or Whisk – To mix the dough smoothly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accuracy.
- Baking Sheet – Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop (Optional) – For evenly sized cookies.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
So, want to tweak the recipe? Here are some simple swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Lighter Option: Replace oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.
- More Lemon Flavor: Add extra zest or 1 tsp lemon extract for a zesty punch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix.
- Extra Chewy Cookies: Add 1 tbsp cornstarch for a softer texture.
Also, check out this Glazed Lemon Cookies recipe from Handle the Heat for a perfectly soft, tangy, and sweet treat with a delightful citrus glaze, Read more here.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Lemon Cookies with Cake Mix
1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2: Mix the Ingredients
- After that, in a large mixing bowl, add:
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (if using)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (if using)
- Mix until a soft dough forms, it will be slightly sticky—this is normal!
3: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
- Later, fold in white chocolate chips, poppy seeds, or any extras.
4: Shape the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to scoop out dough balls (about 1 tbsp each).
- Then, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar (for crinkle cookies).
- Later, place them on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5: Bake
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- After that, the cookies may look slightly underbaked—this keeps them soft!
6: Cool & Serve
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- (Optional) Drizzle with lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
- Don’t Overbake – The cookies should look slightly underdone when removed. They will firm up as they cool.
- Moreover, use Fresh Lemon Zest – It makes a huge difference in flavor!
- Chill Dough for Thicker Cookies – If you want thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking.
- Make a Double Batch – These cookies disappear fast, so make extra!
- Also, use Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and helps with even baking.
Serving Suggestions
So, wondering how to enjoy your lemon cake mix cookies? Try these ideas:
🍋 With Tea or Coffee – A perfect afternoon treat.
🍦 As an Ice Cream Sandwich – Place vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
🍰 With Whipped Cream – Add a dollop on top for an extra indulgent bite.
🍯 Drizzled with Honey or Lemon Glaze – For a sweeter finish.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store Lemon Cookies
- At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- In the Fridge: Store for up to 7 days for extra freshness.
How to Freeze Lemon Cookies
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- Freezing Cookie Dough: Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze for 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approx. 18 Cookies)
- Calories: ~120
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
FAQs About Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Of course, try vanilla, white, or even butter cake mix for a different twist.
2. How do I make these cookies even more lemony?
Add extra lemon zest, ½ tsp lemon extract, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
3. Can I make these cookies healthier?
Yes! Use unsweetened applesauce instead of oil and sugar-free cake mix.
4. Why are my cookies flat?
If they spread too much, chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking.
5. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Of course, use a vegan cake mix, egg replacers (like flax eggs), and dairy-free milk.
Conclusion
To conclude, these Lemon Cookies with Cake Mix are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor! Furthermore, they’re super easy to make, perfect for beginners, and guaranteed to impress.
Also, discover these Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies, a delicious and healthy treat that’s gluten-free and packed with flavor! 🍪💪 Read more here.
So grab your cake mix and start baking—you won’t regret it! 🍋🍪