Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese

Soft, sweet cream cheese cake mix cookies are an excellent, effortless dessert option for quick weeknights, potlucks, and dinner parties. Add your favorite sprinkles or chocolate chips to these cookies if you want, or keep them beautifully simple.

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Baking sweet treats to share has always been such an important part of my life, whether it’s for a casual weekend with friends or a cozy evening at home with family. I’ve always loved how a plate of freshly baked cookies can instantly bring everyone together.

And what’s a potluck or party without some sort of fabulous, bakery-style dessert? I’ve got you covered with these easy and delicious cream cheese cake mix cookies. With their rich, tangy depth and perfectly tender centers, they’re perfect for holidays, quick sweet cravings, you name it!

Ingredients in Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese

This ingredient setup keeps things easy while building a soft and flavorful cookie.

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How to Make Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese

This recipe comes together step by step with simple mixing and baking.

1. Prepare the oven and pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

2. Soften the cream cheese

Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator ahead of time to let it reach room temperature. This makes it easier to blend smoothly into the dough without lumps.

3. Mix the wet ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. This creates a rich base for the cookies.

4. Add the cake mix

Gradually stir in the dry cake mix. Mix until just combined and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. If adding chocolate chips or sprinkles, fold them in now.

5. Chill the dough

Place the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.

6. Scoop the cookies

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form balls of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one for slight spreading.

7. Bake the cookies

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so watch them closely.

8. Cool and serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve once completely cooled for the best texture.

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How to Serve Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese

These cookies work best when served at room temperature. I like placing them on a simple plate or in a basket lined with parchment. They feel like a complete sweet treat without needing anything else on the side.

For a simple addition, serve them with a glass of cold milk or coffee. That adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet flavor.

It also works well for gatherings since they are easy to pick up and eat. Serving them fresh keeps the texture soft and chewy.

Recipe Tips

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
• Do not skip chilling the dough to prevent excessive spreading.
• Underbake slightly for a softer, chewier center.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
• Use any flavor of cake mix to change up the taste.
• Add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.
• Let cookies cool completely before stacking to avoid sticking.
• Bring cream cheese to room temperature for smoother mixing.