Let me introduce you to the magic of Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix: a game-changing recipe that transforms a humble boxed mix into vibrant, melt-in-your-mouth cookies bursting with fresh citrus flavor. These cookies are a dream come true for anyone who loves bright, zesty desserts but craves simplicity — they come together in no time and always spark joy when shared (if you’re willing to share!). You’ll adore their soft centers, crinkly powdered sugar shells, and irresistibly tangy aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake. Whether you’re whipping them up for a weekday pick-me-up or a show-stopping addition to the dessert table, these cookies deliver pure sunshine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix: the ingredient list is short and sweet, but each item is thoughtfully chosen to add flavor, texture, or a pop of color. Grab these pantry staples and a lemon, and you’re halfway there to cookie bliss!
- Lemon cake mix (about 15.25 ounces): This is your golden ticket—instantly infuses the dough with sunny flavor and gorgeous yellow color.
- Large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and help the cookies stay tender and fluffy inside.
- Vegetable oil: This keeps the cookies super moist and gives them their luscious, soft texture.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, it dials up the citrus zing and complements the cake mix perfectly.
- Lemon zest (optional): For extra brightness, a bit of zest adds aromatic oils that make the lemon flavor irresistible.
- Powdered sugar (for rolling): Rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking creates those classic sweet crinkle tops.
How to Make Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take a moment to line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment, a light spritz of nonstick spray works too. This quick step ensures your Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix slide right off the pan once they’re baked to soft perfection.
Step 2: Mix Up the Dough
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the lemon cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and zest if you’re using it. Stir everything together with a sturdy spoon or spatula—you’ll notice the dough is deliciously thick and sticky, which means you’re on the right track. If you want an extra punch of lemon, now’s a great time to add a touch of lemon extract!
Step 3: Shape and Sugar Coat
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop the dough and roll it into balls with your hands. They don’t have to be perfect. Pour the powdered sugar into a shallow bowl and give each dough ball a generous roll until it’s fully coated. This is what creates that signature crinkle effect as the cookies bake!
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Place the sugared dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers look soft and the tops have those gorgeous cracks. Trust your nose—the kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once your Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they firm up a bit. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can resist). The centers will stay soft and chewy, and the crinkled tops will have just the right amount of sweet, lemony sparkle.
How to Serve Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix
Garnishes
Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix already bring the wow factor, but you can add an extra flourish by grating fresh lemon zest on top, dusting with a little more powdered sugar, or even drizzling with a lemony glaze. Sprigs of mint or thin lemon slices also make for a pretty presentation when serving at a party.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine beside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a bowl of fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with a hot cup of tea or iced lemonade for the ultimate afternoon treat. They also play nicely with other fruity desserts for a colorful cookie platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Gift Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix in a decorative jar with a ribbon for a sunny, homemade present. For parties, stack them high on a cake stand, or nestle them in colorful cupcake liners for easy sharing. You can even sandwich them with lemon curd or cream cheese frosting for a cookie twist on whoopie pies!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and tender for up to five days—if they last that long! Just be sure the container is tightly sealed to lock in their moisture and keep them fresh.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead, you can freeze the baked cookies or the cookie dough balls (before rolling in powdered sugar). For baked cookies, layer them between sheets of wax paper in a freezer container or bag for up to two months. For dough, freeze the balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag and roll in powdered sugar just before baking.
Reheating
Should your cookies get a little too firm, you can freshen them by microwaving one or two for about 5 seconds—just enough to restore that soft, bakery-style texture. If reheating from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature, then microwave briefly if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix are a personal favorite, you can easily swap in other flavors like strawberry, orange, or vanilla for a fun twist. The method stays the same, so experiment to find your family’s favorite!
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
No problem. You can use bottled lemon juice in place of fresh, though fresh juice and zest do provide the brightest flavor. If you only have lemon cake mix, the cookies will still be wonderfully lemony!
How do I make the cookies extra lemony?
For a zesty kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon extract to the dough along with the fresh juice and zest. This deepens the lemon flavor without any extra tartness.
Why are my cookies not as crinkly on top?
The powdered sugar coating is what gives Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix their signature crinkle. Don’t be shy—make sure each dough ball is generously rolled in powdered sugar before baking for the prettiest crackly tops.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to bake, roll in powdered sugar and follow the usual steps. This is a great option if you want warm cookies on demand!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, cheerful, and unforgettable treat, you can’t go wrong with Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix. Their vibrant flavor and simple prep make them a go-to for any celebration (or just a well-deserved treat at home!). Bake a batch soon—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Lemon Cookies From Cake Mix Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cookies made from cake mix are a delightful treat that brings together the zesty flavors of lemon in a soft, chewy cookie. Easy to make and bursting with citrusy goodness, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 box lemon cake mix (about 15.25 ounces)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest if using. Stir until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- Shape and bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat each ball in powdered sugar. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 9–11 minutes until set.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For an extra lemony punch, add 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract to the dough.
- These cookies stay soft for several days when stored in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
