These Christmas tree cookies are a fun and festive treat that starts with a box of cake mix. They are very simple to make, resulting in soft, chewy cookies filled with holiday colors. The special topping adds a nostalgic touch.
This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a great option for last-minute holiday baking or a fun activity with kids. The combination of textures from the soft cookie, crunchy candies, and creamy cake topping is what makes them stand out.
Why this works
- Using a cake mix as the base is a shortcut that guarantees a soft, consistent cookie dough every time.
- Rolling the dough balls in sprinkles before baking ensures the cookies are completely covered in festive color.
- Pressing the cake piece into the cookie while it's still warm helps it adhere and melds the flavors together.
Ingredients you'll need
- White Cake Mix: Any brand of white, yellow, or even vanilla cake mix works well for this recipe.
- Vegetable Oil: Canola oil or another neutral-flavored oil can be used as a substitute.
- Almond Extract: This adds a distinct flavor, but you can easily swap it for vanilla extract if you prefer.
- M&M's: Use the holiday-themed red and green candies, or substitute with other festive chocolate candies or chips.
- Sprinkles: A mix of red, green, and white jimmies or nonpareils provides the best festive look.
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: These are the signature topping. Find them in the snack aisle during the holiday season.
Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.
How to make it
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet. This ensures your oven is ready when the dough is mixed. Cut the Christmas tree snack cakes into smaller, bite-sized pieces and pour your sprinkles into a small, shallow dish for easy rolling.
Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and almond extract. Stir everything together until just combined and no dry streaks of cake mix remain. Be careful not to overmix, then gently fold in the M&M's candies.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough into uniform balls. Roll each ball in the dish of sprinkles until it's fully coated, then arrange them on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The cookies should have set edges but still be very soft in the middle.
Step 4: Add the Topping
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, use a small spoon to make a slight indentation in the center of each one. Immediately press a piece of the Christmas tree cake into the warm indent. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the pan before moving them to a wire rack.
Serve it with
These cookies are a wonderful addition to a holiday dessert platter. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a mug of hot cocoa. For a larger spread of treats, offer them alongside some Christmas Candy or classic Christmas Sugar Cookies.
Storage and reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the snack cake topping.
FAQ
Can I use a different kind of cake mix?
Yes, a yellow or Funfetti cake mix would also work well and give a slightly different flavor and color.
My dough is very sticky. What should I do?
Cake mix cookie dough is naturally soft. If it's too difficult to handle, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm it up before scooping and rolling.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
These cookies are best enjoyed within a day or two of baking to maintain their soft texture. The snack cake topping can become a bit soft over time.
