These Confetti Cake Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful sprinkles. Made with cake mix, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for any celebration or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 box of confetti cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the confetti cake mix, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the sprinkles, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press a few more sprinkles onto the top of each cookie dough ball.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per cookie
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 13g
The Origin of Confetti Cake Cookies
Confetti cake cookies are a playful twist on traditional sugar cookies, incorporating the colorful elements of a funfetti cake. Funfetti cake itself is a classic American dessert that first gained popularity in the 1980s, thanks to the introduction of sprinkles mixed into the cake batter. This delightful cookie variation was born out of the idea to combine the beloved flavor of cake with the ease of a cookie, resulting in a vibrant and festive treat perfect for all occasions.
Why Choose Confetti Cake Cookies?
One of the best things about confetti cake cookies is how easy they are to make. They don’t require complex ingredients or techniques, making them ideal for both beginner bakers and experienced ones looking for a quick treat. The soft and chewy texture, combined with the colorful sprinkles, adds a light-hearted, fun touch to any dessert table or party spread.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Confetti cake cookies are ideal for birthdays, baby showers, school parties, or simply when you’re in the mood for something sweet. Their vibrant appearance makes them a festive choice for almost any celebration, while their simplicity means they’re easy to bake even on short notice. The cookies’ cheerful colors can also match any theme, making them the perfect choice for themed events and celebrations.
Versatility in Flavor Combinations
While the base of confetti cake cookies typically involves a box of confetti cake mix, you can easily customize the flavors. For example, add chocolate chips, mini M&Ms, or even white chocolate chunks to the dough for a new take on this classic. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily make these cookies your own by experimenting with different add-ins.
Using Cake Mix for Convenience
One of the secrets behind confetti cake cookies is the use of cake mix. Cake mixes are not only convenient but also provide a deliciously soft and fluffy texture that’s hard to replicate from scratch. Using a cake mix reduces the preparation time significantly while still yielding a tasty, light cookie that feels like homemade from start to finish.
Sprinkles: The Star Ingredient
Sprinkles are the signature feature of confetti cake cookies, adding both color and a delightful crunch. The sprinkles used in confetti cake cookies are typically rainbow-colored, but there are many variations to explore. You can use themed sprinkles to suit specific holidays or celebrations, such as red and green for Christmas or pastel-colored sprinkles for Easter.
Texture and Consistency
Confetti cake cookies have a soft and chewy texture that makes them incredibly enjoyable to bite into. The combination of the cake mix and butter results in a dough that stays tender even after baking. They won’t become too crispy, and the sprinkles add a bit of extra texture, enhancing the overall experience without overpowering the cookie’s delicate crumb.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
For perfectly soft confetti cake cookies, be sure not to overbake them. Keep a close eye on the cookies during the final minutes of baking. They should look slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, you can bake them a little longer, but always err on the side of caution to avoid drying them out.
Gluten-Free Variations
While the traditional confetti cake mix is not gluten-free, you can easily make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Many stores offer gluten-free cake mixes, and you can simply substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free version. The other ingredients, such as butter and eggs, are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still get the same great taste and texture.
Vegan Substitutes
If you need to make these cookies vegan-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can make. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, such as vegan margarine or coconut oil. Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or chia egg, and ensure the cake mix doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients like milk powder. These substitutions will allow you to create delicious vegan confetti cake cookies without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Decorating Your Confetti Cake Cookies
While confetti cake cookies are already colorful, you can elevate their presentation with a few creative touches. For example, drizzle them with white or milk chocolate and sprinkle some extra colorful sprinkles on top for an added burst of color. You can also pipe royal icing in fun patterns or shapes to make the cookies look even more festive.
Freezing Confetti Cake Cookies
Confetti cake cookies freeze exceptionally well, which makes them a great make-ahead treat. To freeze the cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. For added convenience, you can also freeze the dough before baking. Portion out the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a container and store for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Storage and Shelf Life
After baking, confetti cake cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them. They may last up to 10 days in the fridge. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Making Large Batches
These cookies are perfect for large gatherings or bake sales due to their easy preparation and delightful appeal. You can easily scale the recipe to make larger batches by simply doubling or tripling the ingredient amounts. When making large batches, be mindful of your oven’s capacity and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even baking.
Serving Ideas
Confetti cake cookies can be served on their own, or paired with other desserts for a more elaborate treat display. Try serving them alongside ice cream, hot chocolate, or a milkshake for a fun dessert combination. Their vibrant colors make them perfect for a dessert table at parties, and they’re great for adding a pop of color to a plain dessert spread.
Confetti Cake Cookies for the Holidays
These cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to holiday celebrations. During the Christmas season, you can use red and green sprinkles and even add peppermint flavoring to the dough. For a Halloween treat, orange and black sprinkles make for an exciting touch. The adaptability of confetti cake cookies makes them a great year-round option for any occasion.
The Science of Cookie Baking
Baking cookies is not only an art but also a science. The balance between the fat (butter), sugar, and flour in a cookie dough recipe determines its texture and flavor. In confetti cake cookies, the cake mix provides a soft texture due to the additional starches, while the butter adds moisture and richness. Understanding the science behind these elements can help you troubleshoot any baking issues and perfect your recipe over time.
Kid-Friendly Baking
Confetti cake cookies are a great baking project for kids. The simple ingredients and fun process of adding colorful sprinkles make it an enjoyable experience for children. They can help with mixing the dough, scooping it onto the baking sheet, and, of course, decorating the cookies afterward. It’s a perfect opportunity to involve young bakers in the kitchen and create lasting memories.
Pairing Beverages with Confetti Cake Cookies
While confetti cake cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with beverages can elevate the experience. A glass of milk is always a classic choice, as the creamy texture complements the sweetness of the cookies. If you’re serving these cookies at a party or gathering, consider offering coffee, hot cocoa, or even sparkling water to give your guests a variety of options.
Conclusion
Confetti cake cookies are a delightful and versatile treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their soft, chewy texture and vibrant sprinkles, they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making them for a special event, a holiday, or just because, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The recipe’s simplicity and room for customization allow you to tailor it to your taste preferences, making it a go-to dessert for any baker. So, gather your ingredients, and start baking these fun and festive cookies today!