Cake Mix Cookie Bars

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If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dessert, these Cake Mix Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. They combine the simplicity of a boxed cake mix with the chewy, buttery texture of classic cookies, resulting in a bar that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are incredibly easy to whip up and endlessly customizable. Plus, with a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of irresistible bars ready in no time!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about transforming a cake mix into cookie bars — it’s a shortcut to homemade goodness without sacrificing flavor or texture. These bars have a beautifully soft and chewy interior with slightly crisp edges, striking the perfect balance for cookie lovers everywhere. The best part? You can make them in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your sweet creation.

This recipe also shines because it’s incredibly versatile. With just a few swaps and additions, you can tailor the bars to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or a drizzle of frosting, these bars are a blank canvas waiting for your creativity. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them for days after baking.

Ingredients

• 1 box (about 15.25 ounces) yellow or white cake mix (choose your favorite flavor, make sure it contains no non-permitted ingredients)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mix-ins of your choice (chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or -friendly candy pieces)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt (if your cake mix is already salted, you can skip this)

How To Make Cake Mix Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Pour the cake mix into the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

Step 4: Fold in Mix-ins

Add your choice of mix-ins — such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Fold them in evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Spread the Batter

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and spread it out evenly using the back of a spoon or an offset spatula.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Expert Tips

• Make sure not to overbake; the bars should stay soft and chewy.
• Using melted butter adds richness and helps the bars crisp up nicely on the edges.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper— it makes removing and slicing the bars much easier.
• For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
• If you prefer a fudgier texture, reduce the butter slightly or add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Lovers: Use a chocolate or devil’s food cake mix and add white chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pistachios, almonds, or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Fruit & Nut: Add dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a sweet and tangy combo.
• Spiced Bars: Add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Glazed Bars: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Cake Mix Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for about a week. To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I use any flavor of cake mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with yellow, white, chocolate, or even funfetti cake mixes. Just ensure the mix does not contain any non-permitted ingredients.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can substitute butter with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. The texture might be slightly different, but the bars will still be delicious.

How do I make the bars more cakey or more chewy?

For cakier bars, add an extra egg or a couple of tablespoons of milk. For chewier bars, reduce the butter slightly and avoid overbaking.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free or plant-based butter alternative or oil, and ensure your cake mix does not contain dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a wonderfully simple and tasty treat that anyone can whip up in no time. They bridge the gap between cake and cookie, offering the best of both worlds with minimal effort. Perfect for busy bakers, beginners, or those craving a quick dessert fix, this recipe is a go-to for delicious results every time. With endless variations and easy storage options, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your favorite cake mix, gather your mix-ins, and get ready to bake bars that everyone will love!