What Makes Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies So Special
There’s something about the smell of Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies baking in the oven that feels like a warm hug. The nutty aroma of peanut butter mingling with the sweet scent of cake mix is pure comfort. These cookies are a nostalgic treat that reminds me of lazy afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where simplicity always led to the most delicious results. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick dessert fix, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Want more cozy cookie vibes ? Try my applesauce oatmeal cookies they’re soft, sweet, and just as comforting.
I love how versatile these cookies are whether you’re baking them for a family gathering or just treating yourself. My kids adore them, and I often sneak a few into their lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, check out my applesauce oatmeal cookies for another quick and wholesome treat.
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Ingredients for Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
For the cookies
- Yellow Cake Mix – Just grab a box of your favorite yellow cake mix to keep things simple.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Go for the classic creamy kind for that smooth, nutty flavor.
- Vegetable Oil – This keeps the cookies moist and tender.
- Eggs – Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best texture.
For rolling
- Granulated Sugar – A quick roll in sugar adds a sweet, slightly crispy exterior.
Cook Time for Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
One of the best things about these Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies is how quickly they come together. From start to finish, you’re looking at just 22 minutes! Prep takes about 10 minutes, and the cookies bake in 12 minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and delicious. If you’re in the mood for another quick treat, try my 3-ingredient biscuits for a savory option.
How to Make Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, creamy peanut butter, vegetable oil, and room-temperature eggs. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to mix the ingredients thoroughly until a thick, uniform dough forms with no dry streaks remaining.
3. Roll into balls
Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball between your palms. Repeat this process with the remaining dough, yielding approximately 24 evenly sized balls.
4. Coat in sugar
Place the granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each dough ball in the sugar until it is lightly and evenly coated. Arrange the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
5. Flatten with a fork
Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball in a crisscross pattern, flattening them slightly to create a textured surface. Be careful not to press too hard, as this may cause the cookies to lose their shape.
6. Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain a chewy texture.
7. Cool and serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to firm up. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack using a spatula and let them cool completely before serving or storing.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Here are a few of my favorite tips and tweaks to make these Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies even more special:
- Flavor Swap: Try using chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich, indulgent twist.
- Diet Tweak: For a lower-sugar option, skip the sugar coating or use a sugar substitute like stevia.
- Prep Fix: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15 minutes before rolling.
- Storage Tip: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. For more storage ideas, check out my butterscotch pecan cookies guide.
Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 ounces
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for rolling
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- spatula
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, peanut butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until a thick, uniform dough forms.
- Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Repeat with the remaining dough to yield about 24 balls.
- Place the granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each dough ball in the sugar until lightly coated, then place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Use a fork to gently press down on each ball in a crisscross pattern, flattening them slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies are undeniably a treat, they do offer some nutritional perks. Peanut butter, for instance, is packed with protein and healthy fats, making these cookies a bit more satisfying than your average sweet snack. The eggs in the recipe add a boost of protein, while the vegetable oil contributes to the cookies’ soft and chewy texture. If you’re curious about other recipes that balance indulgence with nutrition, check out my matcha banana bread for a wholesome twist on a classic.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of peanut butter, you can explore Food.com’s Recipe Guide, which breaks down the benefits of using peanut butter in baking. And if you’re looking for more ways to incorporate healthy ingredients into your desserts, my applesauce oatmeal cookies are a great option to try.
A Lighter Version of Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
If you’re watching your sugar or fat intake, there are plenty of ways to lighten up these Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies without sacrificing flavor. For a lower-sugar option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or xylitol in place of granulated sugar. You can also opt for a reduced-fat peanut butter or even almond butter for a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re curious about other low-sugar treats, my lemon rhubarb loaf is a refreshing choice.
For more inspiration on creating lighter versions of your favorite desserts, take a look at Allrecipes’ Simple Recipe, which offers tips on reducing sugar and fat in baked goods. And if you’re looking for a completely different approach to baking, my cottage cheese bread is a unique and healthy option to explore.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
If you’re sugar-conscious or managing dietary restrictions, don’t worry—these Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies can still be part of your treat rotation. For a diabetic-friendly version, consider using a natural sweetener like stevia or xylitol instead of granulated sugar. These alternatives can help keep the cookies low glycemic while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Another tip is to reduce the portion size slightly, making them a more manageable treat for blood sugar control.
For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter can be a great substitute for peanut butter, offering a similar texture and flavor. And if you’re looking for more ideas on adapting recipes to special diets, my gluten-free bagels are a fantastic resource for gluten-free baking. Remember, small tweaks can make a big difference, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
How to Serve Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
There’s something so comforting about serving a warm batch of Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies straight from the oven. I love pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a classic treat that feels like home. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate. If you’re hosting a gathering, these cookies also pair beautifully with my peach pie cruffins for a delightful dessert spread.
For more creative serving ideas, check out Betty Crocker’s Easy Recipe, which offers tips on presentation and pairing. And if you’re looking for another crowd-pleasing dessert, my pineapple cake is a tropical treat that’s always a hit.
Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can have their pitfalls, and Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies are no exception. One common mistake is overmixing the dough. While it’s tempting to keep stirring until everything is perfectly smooth, overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined trust me, they’ll turn out soft and chewy every time. If you’re looking for more tips on perfecting cookie textures, my snickerdoodle cookie mix has some great pointers.
Another mistake is baking the cookies for too long. These cookies are meant to be soft and slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool, so resist the urge to leave them in longer. For a foolproof guide on baking times, check out Betty Crocker’s Easy Recipe, which offers detailed instructions.
Lastly, using the wrong type of peanut butter can throw off the texture. Stick to creamy peanut butter for the best results chunky varieties can make the dough uneven. If you’re curious about other cookie recipes that use peanut butter, my butterscotch pecan cookies are a delightful twist.
How to Store Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies filling your kitchen. But what do you do with the leftovers? I like to store mine in an airtight container at room temperature they’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
For more tips on storing baked goods, take a look at Allrecipes’ Simple Recipe, which includes helpful storage advice. And if you’re looking for another recipe that freezes well, my 3-ingredient biscuits are a great option.
Try This Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies Yourself
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. There’s something so comforting about baking a batch of these cookies they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a sweet treat after a long day. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes, check out my cherry lemon bars or buttery biscuits for more baking inspiration.
And don’t forget to explore my snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar if you’re in the mood for something a little different. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter works as a great substitute and adds a slightly different flavor. Just make sure it’s creamy for the best texture.
How do I make these cookies sugar-free?
You can use a sugar substitute like stevia or xylitol. For more sugar-free baking ideas, try my lemon rhubarb loaf.
Why are my cookies dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Take them out of the oven when they’re still slightly soft in the center—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough freezes well. Just shape it into balls, freeze on a tray, and transfer to a bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
