Name: Fudgy Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (devil’s food or chocolate fudge preferred); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks (optional); Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, M&Ms, or peanut butter chips

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies come together with minimal effort and ingredients, thanks to the shortcut of using a boxed cake mix. You don’t need to cream butter, measure out flour, or fuss with complex steps. The result? Deep chocolate flavor and a texture that’s perfectly fudgy on the inside with just a hint of crisp around the edges. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or candies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cake mix (devil’s food or chocolate fudge preferred)
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks (optional but highly recommended)
Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, M&Ms, or peanut butter chips

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until fully combined and a thick dough forms.
Fold in chocolate chips or any mix-ins of your choice.
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Double chocolate: Add dark chocolate chunks for an extra rich treat.
Mint chocolate: Stir in chopped Andes mints or mint chips.
Peanut butter swirl: Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter on top before baking.
Festive twist: Use holiday-colored M&Ms for a themed batch.
Espresso boost: Add 1 tsp of instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, microwave individual cookies for about 10 seconds to restore their warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use any cake mix flavor?

Yes, but chocolate cake mix gives the best fudgy texture. You can try vanilla or red velvet for a different flavor.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies may result from overmixing or using too much oil. Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if it feels too soft.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessarily, but chilling can help if the dough is too sticky or if you want thicker cookies.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter for oil in equal amounts, which adds richness to the flavor.

How do I make them more chewy?

Underbake them slightly and let them finish setting on the baking sheet for that chewy center.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! They stay fresh for days and package beautifully in cookie boxes or bags.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for an easy gluten-free version.

Can kids help make these cookies?

Yes, it’s a great beginner recipe for young bakers—simple, fast, and fun to mix and scoop.

What type of oil works best?

Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil work best. Avoid strongly flavored oils like olive oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in batches for a bigger yield.

Conclusion

Fudgy Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate quick-fix dessert that satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving. Soft, chewy, and loaded with rich chocolate flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion—from everyday snacks to party treats. With endless variations and unbeatable ease, this recipe is a must-have in your baking rotation.