Cake Mix Monster Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cake Mix Monster Cookies are a fun, chewy, and colorful treat packed with chocolate chips, oats, peanut butter, and candy-coated chocolates. Using cake mix as the base makes them incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or a sweet snack, these cookies bring big flavor with little effort.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

yellow cake mix
rolled oats
creamy peanut butter
eggs
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar
vanilla extract
semi-sweet chocolate chips
mini M&M’s or regular M&M’s

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, oats, brown sugar, and butter. Mix until crumbly.

Add the eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough forms and all ingredients are well combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s.

Scoop out tablespoons of dough and form into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each.

Slightly flatten the tops of the cookies with your palm or a spoon.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft.

Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use a chocolate or funfetti cake mix for a different flavor base.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly versions.
Stir in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a chewy contrast.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 2 months.
To refresh, microwave for 5-10 seconds for a warm, gooey center.

FAQs

Can I use any cake mix flavor?

Yes, yellow, chocolate, or even spice cake mix work well.

Do I have to chill the dough?

No chilling is necessary, but chilling for 15 minutes can help cookies hold their shape better.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, though rolled oats give a chewier texture.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Only if you use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free oats.

Can I omit the peanut butter?

Yes, but it will change the texture and flavor. Substitute with another nut or seed butter.

Can I make these without M&M’s?

Yes, replace them with extra chocolate chips or any mix-ins you like.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just make sure to bake in batches.

Are they safe for kids?

Yes, they’re fun and colorful—great for kids!

Why are my cookies dry?

Avoid overbaking and measure ingredients accurately, especially flour and oats.

Do they spread a lot?

Not much—lightly flattening them before baking helps shape them nicely.

Conclusion

Cake Mix Monster Cookies are the ultimate no-fuss treat, combining pantry staples with a playful, candy-filled twist. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for fun or feeding a group, these cookies are a sweet and simple solution.

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