Tips for Best Results
- For extra pronounced crinkles, roll the dough balls twice in powdered sugar.
- If the dough is very sticky, chill it for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
- Don’t overbake; they should look slightly soft when you remove them and will firm up as they cool.
Flavor Ideas
- Chocolate cake mix → brownie-style chocolate crinkles.
- Red velvet → festive red cookies for Christmas or Valentine’s.
- Lemon → bright, citrusy cookies with a pretty yellow crumb.
- Strawberry → pink, sweet cookies perfect for spring or Valentine’s.
Storage and Freezing
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes. Melted and cooled butter can replace the oil, but the cookies may be slightly richer and a bit less soft than with oil.
2. Why aren’t my cookies crinkling much?
Make sure the dough balls are generously coated in powdered sugar and avoid flattening them before baking; a slightly chilled dough can also puff and crack more distinctly.
3. Do I need to add water or other ingredients listed on the cake mix box?
No. Ignore the box directions and use only the cake mix plus the eggs and oil specified here.
4. Can I add mix-ins?
Yes. Stir in up to 1 cup of mini chocolate chips, white chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Cake mix crinkle cookies are an easy, flexible base you can adapt for any holiday or theme, so once you test a flavor or two, keep notes on which combinations your readers or family love most and turn those into your go-to quick cookie recipes year-round.