Cake Mix Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love These Cake Mix Cookie Bars
If you're looking for a quick and foolproof dessert, these Cake Mix Cookie Bars are the answer. Using boxed cake mix as the base creates soft, chewy bars with minimal effort, making them perfect for beginner bakers and busy families alike.
The buttery cookie base is loaded with chocolate chips, but it's also easy to customize with your favorite candies, nuts, or sprinkles. Since everything bakes in a single pan, there's no need to scoop individual cookies, making cleanup just as easy as preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup colorful sprinkles (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms.
3. Add the Mix-Ins
Fold in the chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles if using.
4. Spread the Dough
Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula or lightly greased hands.
5. Bake
Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking for soft, chewy bars.
6. Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired before serving.
Expert Tips
Do not overmix the dough, as it can make the bars dense. For gooier cookie bars, remove them from the oven when the center still looks slightly underbaked—they'll continue to cook as they cool. Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices.
Storage
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigerate for up to one week or freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a glass of milk, coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They're also delicious topped with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, whipped cream, or fresh berries for an easy dessert.
Recipe Variations
Use chocolate, funfetti, strawberry, lemon, or spice cake mix for different flavors. Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, peanut butter chips, crushed cookies, toffee bits, mini marshmallows, or seasonal candies to customize the bars for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
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