Name: Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 box Spice Cake mix (15.25-ounce box); 1 can Pumpkin (15-ounce can); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional); to taste optional Flaky sea salt; 1 bag Chocolate chips (12-ounce bag)

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There’s something truly special about baking during the fall, and nothing captures that magic quite like Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies. Every year, as the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself reaching for my favorite comfort recipes. It’s a tradition to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, filling my kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices. The simplicity of using a cake mix makes it all come together effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy the process without the fuss. I remember the first time I made these cookies, and how my friends couldn’t believe how easy they were to make yet how delicious they turned out. They have that perfect soft, chewy texture and are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, enjoying a cozy family evening, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are the ultimate fall treat, and they never disappoint.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
85 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
3 g

Tools Used:
Sheet pan (15″ x 10″)

Why This Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies Stands Out

Easy and Quick to Make

One of the most fantastic aspects of Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies is their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch of cookies ready to enjoy in no time. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days or when you need a last-minute dessert for unexpected guests.

Perfect for Fall

These cookies embody the essence of fall. The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a cozy flavor that’s reminiscent of the season. They’re great for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings, bringing a festive touch to any occasion.

Customizable to Your Taste

While the base recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily make it your own! Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of your favorite spices to tailor them to your taste. The flexibility makes them a fun recipe to experiment with!

Great for Sharing

With a yield of about 36 cookies, there’s plenty to go around. Whether you’re treating your family or bringing a batch to a potluck, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Their delectable taste and appealing appearance will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Soft and Chewy Texture

What I love most is the soft, chewy texture of these cookies. They’re not dry or crumbly; instead, they melt in your mouth. The perfect texture is achieved without needing to chill the dough, making them even easier to whip up.

Accessible Ingredients

The ingredients for Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies are simple and often found in your pantry. This means you can make them whenever a craving strikes without the hassle of a long grocery list.

What to Gather for Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies

Creating the perfect batch of cookies begins with quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, ensuring the cookies come out soft, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. The key players in this recipe are the spice cake mix and pumpkin, which together create that classic fall flavor profile. Let’s explore what you’ll need:

1 (15.25-ounce) box Spice Cake mix: This is the base of your cookies, providing sweetness and spice.
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin: Adds moisture and a rich, pumpkin flavor without the hassle of cooking fresh pumpkin.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps achieve that chewy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a touch of warmth to the flavor.
Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top enhances the sweetness.
1 (12-ounce) bag chocolate chips: These add sweetness and richness to every bite.

Recipe Directions for Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies

Making these cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create your own batch of Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This is essential because the dough can be sticky, and lining the pan will help the cookies bake evenly and release easily.
In a large bowl, combine the entire box of spice cake mix, the entire can of pumpkin, and 1 large egg. It’s important not to add any other ingredients listed on the cake mix box. If you’d like, you can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie texture. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
Add in the chocolate chips, stirring gently until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is when the cookie dough starts to come alive with flavor!
Scoop out about 4 teaspoons of dough for each cookie and place them on your prepared cookie sheet. Be sure to leave at least 2 inches of space between each scoop, as the cookies will spread while baking. You can use the back of a small dessert spoon to help coax the dough onto the tray.
Once your cookie sheet is full, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 13 minutes. They should spring back slightly when touched and should not look gooey or glossy on top. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them stand on the pan for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit before transferring them. If you love extra chocolate, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top while they are still warm.
Use a sharp metal spatula to gently lift the cookies from the pan and place them on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving. For a delightful twist, sprinkle a small amount of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie while they are cooling.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor these delicious Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Overmix: Mixing the dough just until combined is crucial for soft cookies. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even results.
Cookie Spacing: Give your cookies enough space on the baking sheet. Crowded cookies can merge into each other.
Cooling Time: Letting the cookies cool on the pan before transferring them prevents them from breaking.

Substitutions and Tips

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there’s always room for customization. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies:

Storage: Store cookies at room temperature, uncovered, for optimal freshness. Avoid using an airtight container, as this can make them soft and soggy.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Variations: Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruits, or even other types of chocolate chips for a twist on the classic recipe.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Baking Tips: Check your cookies at the lower end of the baking time for perfect chewy cookies.
Batch Making: This recipe is great for doubling. Just keep an eye on baking times.

How to Serve Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies

Serving Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies can be as fun as baking them! Here’s how to elevate your cookie experience:

Warm and Fresh: Serve the cookies warm from the oven for an irresistible treat that melts in your mouth.
With Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pumpkin spice gelato.
For Gatherings: Arrange these cookies on a festive platter for parties. They make great conversation starters!
Seasonal Touch: For Halloween or Thanksgiving, add a decorative touch with themed napkins or serving dishes.
Coffee Pairing: Pair them with a cup of pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider to enhance the fall flavors.
Gift Idea: Package them in a decorative tin as a thoughtful gift for friends and family during the fall season.

FAQ

Absolutely! While spice cake mix is traditional for Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Each will give the cookies a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the spices will be less pronounced with those flavors, but they’ll still taste delicious!

For best results, store your cookies at room temperature, uncovered. It’s crucial to avoid airtight containers, as they can make the cookies soft and mushy over time. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them instead!

Yes! To make Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that will work just as well. Be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.

These cookies are best enjoyed within the first few days of baking. However, if stored properly at room temperature, they can last up to a week. If you freeze them, they can last for up to two months, making them a great make-ahead treat!

Conclusion

The Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies are not just another cookie recipe; they’re the perfect blend of flavor and ease that captures the spirit of fall. With their delightful taste and soft texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. I encourage you to try this simple yet delicious recipe and share them with friends and family. You won’t regret it!