Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
There’s something undeniably delightful about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, especially when it’s baked into soft, chewy cookies. If you’re craving a simple yet scrumptious treat that bursts with citrusy goodness, these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies are just the ticket. With the convenience of cake mix, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a sunny picnic, a cozy gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
These cookies are incredibly soft and tender, thanks to a few simple ingredients that work together beautifully. You’ll find the process straightforward, and the results will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why cooks rave about this recipe and how you can create your own batch of these delicious cookies!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Cooks everywhere love these Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies for several reasons. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a box of cake mix as the base, there’s no need for complicated measurements or lengthy prep times. Secondly, the flavor is bright and refreshing, making them an ideal treat for summer gatherings or whenever you’re in need of a citrus pick-me-up. Lastly, the texture is second to none—soft, chewy, and oh-so-satisfying with a light dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients at a Glance
To make these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
Setup & Equipment
Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
- Baking sheet: A standard size will work perfectly for baking these cookies.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For portioning out the cookie dough.
Stepwise Method: Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and chewy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon cake mix and the baking powder. This will help to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the mix.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, lemon zest, and eggs. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each scoop, as the cookies will spread while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to set as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
If You’re Out Of…
If you happen to be missing an ingredient, here are some easy substitutions:
- Vegetable oil: You can use melted coconut oil or unsalted butter in its place.
- Lemon zest: If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can add a hint of flavor but won’t provide the zest.
- Powdered sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute but won’t give the same visual effect.
- Baking powder: If you’re out, you can make a substitute by mixing ¼ teaspoon baking soda with ½ teaspoon cream of tartar.
Errors to Dodge
When making Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tougher cookies, so mix until just combined.
- Not measuring the oil correctly: Too much oil can make the cookies greasy, while too little can dry them out.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated; an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
- Skipping the cooling step: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps them set properly.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To keep your Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies fresh:
- Storing: Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies later, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes.
Common Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate for a unique twist on these cookies. Just adjust the zest and any additional flavorings accordingly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little underbaked!
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Yes! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even nuts to customize your cookies to your liking.
What can I serve these cookies with?
These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or lemonade. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside Kale Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette or an entrée like Creamy Lemon Grilled Tilapia for a refreshing lemon-themed meal.
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, here are some of my healthy-ish favorites:
Hungry for More?
These Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies are just the beginning! With their vibrant flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy them straight from the oven or with a light dusting of powdered sugar, they are a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own. Happy baking!
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Soft Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon cake mix and baking powder.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, lemon zest, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Step 5: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 7: Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist!
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
