Description
Looking for a dessert that’s as bright as a 4th of July fireworks display and takes just minutes to whip up? These 4th of July Sprinkle Cake Mix Cookies are your perfect choice! With a soft, chewy vanilla cookie base rolled in festive red, white, and blue sprinkles, they’re a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for Independence Day, summer picnics, or any patriotic celebration.
Ingredients
A batch of 4th of July Sprinkle Cake Mix Cookies needs just a few simple ingredients for about 24 cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Cookie Dough:
-
1 package (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
-
2 large eggs
-
½ cup oil (vegetable or canola)
-
Why it matters: The vanilla cake mix creates a soft, chewy cookie base; eggs and oil bind it for a rich texture.
-
Substitutions: Use white or yellow cake mix for a similar flavor. Swap oil for melted butter for a richer taste. Use a gluten-free cake mix for dietary needs.
-
-
Decoration:
-
4th of July sprinkles (red, white, and blue jimmies or nonpareils)
-
Why it matters: Sprinkles add a festive, flag-inspired look and a slight crunch.
-
Substitutions: Use any patriotic-themed sprinkles (stars, stripes, or mixed shapes). Swap for red, white, and blue M&M’s or chopped candy for variety.
-
Tip: Choose a reliable cake mix brand (like Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines) for consistent results. Use about ½ cup sprinkles for rolling to ensure full coverage. Select fresh eggs and neutral oil for the best flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
-
Tip: Parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Use a light-colored baking sheet for even baking.
-
Step 2: Mix the Dough
-
In a large bowl, combine 1 package vanilla cake mix, 2 eggs, and ½ cup oil.
-
Mix with a spoon, whisk, or hand mixer on low speed until a soft, cohesive dough forms (about 1-2 minutes).
-
Tip: Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender. Scrape the bowl to ensure no dry mix remains.
-
Step 3: Shape and Decorate
-
Scoop 1-inch balls of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon.
-
Pour about ½ cup red, white, and blue sprinkles into a shallow bowl.
-
Roll each dough ball in the sprinkles, pressing gently to cover all sides.
-
Place balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart (about 12 per sheet).
-
Tip: Chill dough for 10 minutes if sticky for easier rolling. Press sprinkles lightly to stick without flattening the balls.
-
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
-
Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
-
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Tip: Don’t overbake; cookies will firm up as they cool. Bake one sheet at a time for even results.
-
Step 5: Serve
-
Serve cookies at room temperature or slightly chilled for a refreshing treat.
-
Tip: Stack on a red, white, or blue plate for a festive 4th of July presentation. Add extra sprinkles on the plate for flair.
-