Looking for a simple yet show-stopping dessert to celebrate your next patriotic party or summer cookout? These Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies are the perfect choice. They’re colorful, chewy, super soft, and require just a handful of pantry staples. Even better, they’re made with a cake mix, which cuts prep time in half while still delivering delicious, bakery-style results.
Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July gathering, a Memorial Day BBQ, or just want something fun for the kids, this cookie recipe checks all the boxes. You’ll only need one bowl, no mixer, and about 20 minutes of your time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap out the sprinkles to match any holiday theme.
Don’t miss our 3-Ingredient Banana Bread for another incredibly easy baking idea you’ll love.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for patriotic holidays and beyond
These Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies are practically made for summer parties. The colors pop, the cookies hold their shape, and they taste like sweet, chewy perfection. Unlike fussy sugar cookies, these come together in minutes. The red, white, and blue sprinkles add the perfect festive touch, making these cookies as pretty as they are tasty.
Even better? You can adapt this recipe for any occasion. Just switch up the sprinkle colors for Christmas, Halloween, Easter, or birthdays. Think of this as your go-to cookie base for every celebration!
Fun, fast, and family-friendly to make
One of the best parts about this cookie recipe is that it’s practically foolproof. With just a box of white cake mix, a few wet ingredients, and your favorite patriotic sprinkles, you’ll be on your way to cookie bliss.
Kids especially love getting involved with this one. Let them stir the dough, roll the cookie balls, or dip them in extra sprinkles. Because it’s so quick and easy, this is the kind of baking you can enjoy without a big mess or stress.
And here’s the kicker—Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies aren’t just tasty and adorable. They’re also budget-friendly, making them ideal for last-minute dessert planning or big-batch baking.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Total time overview: prep, bake, and cool
Making Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies is not just easy—it’s super quick, too. You can go from mixing to munching in under 30 minutes. That’s right—this is the kind of recipe you can pull off even when guests are already knocking at your door.
Here’s a quick time breakdown:
| Step | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Baking Time | 11–12 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
This makes them perfect for busy parents, last-minute party planners, or anyone who wants a festive treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you need to make several batches, simply double or triple the recipe. Because there’s no chilling required, you can keep the dough moving from bowl to oven with minimal wait time.
Best baking tips for perfect results every time
To make sure your Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies come out just right, here are a few time-saving and flavor-boosting tips:
- Preheat your oven before you even start mixing. A hot oven (at 350°F) ensures even baking and golden edges.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup faster.
- Scoop consistently. Use a medium-sized cookie scoop so each cookie bakes evenly.
- Leave space between dough balls. These cookies spread a little, so don’t overcrowd your baking sheet.
- Don’t overbake. The cookies should look soft in the center when you remove them. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Cool on the sheet first. Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes to avoid crumbling.
Want to master more quick-bake recipes? Check out our No-Bake Oreo Cake Pops for another hit that’s just as easy and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Main ingredients you’ll need
The beauty of Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies is how incredibly simple the ingredients are. Everything you need can be found in your pantry or local grocery store. No special baking skills required—just mix, scoop, and bake.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| White Cake Mix | 1 box (15.25 oz – any brand like Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Red, White & Blue Sprinkles | ½ cup (in dough) + extra for rolling |
That’s it! These six basic ingredients transform into a festive dessert everyone will love.
The use of a white cake mix is what keeps this recipe fast and foolproof. It provides structure, sweetness, and just the right amount of fluff—giving your Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies that soft, chewy center we all crave.
Substitution ideas and allergy-friendly swaps
Want to make these cookies fit dietary needs or preferences? Here are a few smart swaps to keep the fun going:
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap in a gluten-free white cake mix. Pillsbury and King Arthur both offer great options.
- No Eggs? Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) or egg replacer powder.
- No Vegetable Oil? Try melted coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
- Dairy-Free? Good news—most white cake mixes are dairy-free, but double-check the label to be safe.
- Color Change: Hosting a birthday or a sports party? Change up the sprinkles for any color combo you like.
Looking for another recipe that’s equally customizable and kid-friendly? Don’t miss our Lavender Honey Cupcakes—perfect for tea parties or springtime picnics!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the cookie dough from cake mix
Creating these Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies couldn’t be easier. You’ll only need one bowl, a spatula or spoon, and about 10 minutes of prep time. No mixer, no chilling, no stress.
Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the wet ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cake mix – Slowly stir in the entire box of white cake mix. Mix well until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- Fold in sprinkles – Add ½ cup of red, white, and blue sprinkles. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
This dough is thick and slightly sticky—more like a scoopable cake batter than traditional cookie dough. Don’t worry; that’s exactly how it should be.
Shaping and baking the cookies
- Scoop the dough – Use a medium cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll each scoop between your palms into a ball.
- Roll in extra sprinkles – Place additional sprinkles in a shallow bowl and roll each dough ball to coat all sides.
- Place on baking sheet – Arrange cookie dough balls 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake – Bake at 350°F for 11–12 minutes. The cookies should be soft in the center and lightly golden on the edges.
- Cool – Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
And just like that, your Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies are ready to serve. Soft, chewy, colorful, and bursting with patriotic charm.
Want more easy cookie ideas? Try our crowd-pleasing Mini Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecakes that are just as fun to bake.
How to Serve
Creative ways to present red white and blue cookies
Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies are already a visual showstopper, but how you serve them can take your presentation to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July barbecue, a themed birthday, or simply want a cute dessert tray, these ideas add charm and style:
- Arrange by color bursts: Stack the cookies on a white cake stand to highlight the patriotic colors. Add small American flags or red napkins for extra flair.
- Cookie jar magic: Layer cookies inside a clear glass jar, tied with a red ribbon. It makes a great party centerpiece or hostess gift.
- Serve on skewers: Thread 2–3 cookies onto wooden skewers and serve them bouquet-style in a mason jar for a kid-friendly grab-and-go dessert.
- DIY cookie bar: Let guests add whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even scoop ice cream between two cookies to make cookie sandwiches.
You can also get creative with packaging. Wrap them in cellophane with festive ribbons for bake sales, gift baskets, or party favors.
Great pairings and complementary treats
If you’re building a dessert table or just want to pair these cookies with other treats, consider options that contrast in texture and flavor:
| Pairing Idea | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Lemonade or Berry Punch | Brightens the sweet flavor of the cookies |
| Fresh Fruit Cups | Adds a light, refreshing bite |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Turns the cookies into quick ice cream sandwiches |
| Chocolate Dipped Strawberries | Adds elegance and complements the vanilla cake base |
Looking for inspiration? Try our fruity Berry Cheesecake Bites as a creamy companion to these cookies.
Additional Tips
How to keep cookies soft and chewy
If you love that just-baked, melt-in-your-mouth texture, follow these smart tips to keep your Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies soft and chewy for days:
- Don’t overbake. The most important rule. Take them out when they’re still a little underdone in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Cool completely before storing. Let cookies sit on a cooling rack to prevent condensation in the container, which can make them soggy.
- Use an airtight container. Store cookies in a sealed container with a slice of bread or tortilla—it helps maintain moisture.
- Avoid stacking too soon. Make sure cookies are fully cooled before stacking to prevent sticking or smudging sprinkles.
Even days later, you’ll still enjoy that same pillowy center if you store them right.
Troubleshooting common cookie mistakes
Even simple recipes like Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies can go sideways. Here’s how to fix common issues:
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies are too flat | Oven too hot or dough too soft | Chill dough for 20 mins or add a tablespoon of flour |
| Cookies are too hard | Overbaking | Shorten bake time or lower oven temp slightly |
| Dough too sticky to handle | Cake mix brand variation | Lightly flour your hands or use a cookie scoop |
| Sprinkles fall off | Didn’t press them in | Gently roll the dough balls in sprinkles before baking |
Want another easy dessert with no mixer needed? Discover great ideas like our Cappuccino Fudge Cheesecake—rich, creamy, and no-fuss.
Recipe Variations
Using different cake mixes or themes
One of the best things about Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies is how easy they are to customize. With just a few tweaks, you can turn this patriotic treat into a year-round favorite for any celebration.
Here are some popular variations to try:
| Occasion | Sprinkle Colors | Cake Mix Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas | Red & Green | Vanilla or Chocolate |
| Halloween | Orange & Black | Chocolate Fudge |
| Valentine’s Day | Pink & Red | Strawberry or Red Velvet |
| Easter | Pastel Mix | Lemon or Confetti |
| Birthday Parties | Rainbow | Funfetti or Yellow Cake |
Want a deeper flavor? Swap the white cake mix for:
- Spice cake mix for a warm holiday twist
- Lemon cake mix for a citrusy zing
- Chocolate cake mix for a brownie-like bite
Or try adding mix-ins like:
- Mini white chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans)
- Freeze-dried fruit bits (like raspberries or blueberries)
Making the cookies gluten-free or dairy-free
Need to meet dietary needs? Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies can easily be adapted to suit your crowd.
To make them gluten-free:
- Use a gluten-free white cake mix (King Arthur and Pillsbury both offer reliable options).
- Double-check sprinkles to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
To make them dairy-free:
- Most cake mixes are naturally dairy-free, but always read labels.
- Swap in coconut oil or avocado oil for butter if using variations.
Pro tip: For an extra boost of flavor and a gooey texture, stir in a spoonful of dairy-free yogurt or applesauce.
Looking for more easy variations on classic desserts? Don’t miss our cozy Banana Cake Using Yellow Cake Mix—a comfort food favorite with a shortcut twist.
Freezing and Storage
Best practices for freezing cookie dough or baked cookies
Planning ahead or making a big batch? Great news—Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies freeze beautifully, both as dough and after baking.
To freeze unbaked dough:
- Prepare the dough as directed, including folding in sprinkles.
- Scoop dough into individual balls.
- Place dough balls on a parchment-lined tray and flash-freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with date and baking instructions.
When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time and you’re all set.
To freeze baked cookies:
- Let cookies cool completely.
- Layer between parchment paper in an airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked softness.
Freezing helps preserve that chewy, delicious texture we love in Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies, so don’t hesitate to make extras.
Storage tips for freshness and texture
If you’re storing cookies at room temperature:
- Use an airtight tin or container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Place a slice of white bread inside to help retain moisture.
- Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Avoid refrigerating baked cookies, as it tends to dry them out. If you must chill them, seal them tightly to prevent air exposure.
Want a fun way to serve frozen cookies? Try pairing them with a scoop of our Strawberry Dole Whip for a red-white-blue treat that’s cool and creamy.
Special Equipment
Tools you need for this recipe
The great thing about Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies is that they don’t require any fancy gadgets. That said, having a few basic kitchen tools on hand will make prep faster and cleaner:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | One large bowl is all you need to mix the entire recipe. |
| Whisk or Silicone Spatula | For mixing ingredients quickly and evenly. |
| Cookie Scoop | Helps portion uniform cookie dough balls for even baking. |
| Baking Sheet | Use a standard-sized sheet for proper spacing. |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat | Prevents sticking and ensures even browning. |
| Cooling Rack | Allows cookies to set without getting soggy bottoms. |
These items are likely already in your kitchen, but if you’re starting from scratch, this list covers everything needed to make your cookies turn out bakery-perfect.
Optional gadgets to make baking easier
While not essential, these tools can level up your baking game—especially if you make cookies often:
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – Speeds up mixing, especially if doubling the batch.
- Digital Oven Thermometer – Ensures your oven runs at the correct temp for consistent results.
- Sprinkle Tray or Shallow Dish – Makes rolling dough in sprinkles neater and less messy.
- Storage Containers with Compartments – Keeps cookies fresh without smushing them.
For another sweet treat made simple with basic equipment, check out our Heavenly Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake—rich, indulgent, and great for sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for these cookies?
Absolutely! While white cake mix gives the best color contrast with the sprinkles, you can swap it for chocolate, lemon, or even strawberry. Just be mindful that darker cake mixes will change the overall cookie color.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
If your Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies spread too much during baking, the dough may be too warm. Try chilling it for 20–30 minutes before scooping. Also, ensure your oven is preheated properly to 350°F for even baking.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
What kind of sprinkles work best?
Use jimmies or classic rod-shaped sprinkles—they don’t melt or bleed color when baked. Avoid nonpareils, as they tend to bleed and create color streaks in the dough.
Are these cookies suitable for other holidays besides July 4th?
Definitely! Just change the sprinkle colors to match the occasion—red and green for Christmas, pastel for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween. The base dough is extremely versatile.
How do I make these cookies without eggs?
You can use 1 flax egg per regular egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water). Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes before using. This works well for egg allergies or vegan baking.
Conclusion
Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate no-fuss, high-impact dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With just a few ingredients and a single mixing bowl, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just craving something sweet, this recipe has you covered.
So go ahead—grab that cake mix, toss in your patriotic sprinkles, and bake up something bold, bright, and bursting with flavor. These cookies are sure to be the star of any celebration!
Looking for inspiration? Try our Ambrosia Salad Recipe for another nostalgic treat that’s perfect for parties.
Print
Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, chewy, and festive cookies made with white cake mix and patriotic sprinkles. A quick and colorful treat perfect for 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup red, white, and blue sprinkles (in dough)
- Additional sprinkles for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Add the white cake mix and stir until fully incorporated.
- Fold in ½ cup of sprinkles evenly into the dough.
- Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, scoop dough into balls and roll each ball in additional sprinkles.
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 11–12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- For different holidays, simply change the color of sprinkles.
- Use a gluten-free cake mix and check sprinkles to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Egg alternatives like flax eggs work well for a vegan version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red White and Blue Cake Mix Cookies, cake mix cookies, patriotic cookies, 4th of July cookies, easy cookie recipe