There's a certain joy that comes from baking something simple yet delightful, and these Easy 3-Ingredient Strawberry Crinkle Cookies embody that perfectly. Picture this: the rich aroma of sweet strawberries filling your kitchen as you mix together just three ingredients. It's a moment of pure happiness! Whether you're creating a quick treat for afternoon snack time or whipping up a batch for a school event, these cookies have your back.
I stumbled upon this easy recipe during a busy week filled with endless to-do lists, and it quickly became my go-to for satisfying sweet cravings without the stress. With their soft, chewy centers and that classic powdered sugar outer layer, these cookies are not just a dessert; they're a delightful explosion of flavor that everyone will love. Perfect for family gatherings or last-minute get-togethers, this recipe is always a hit. Plus, it's kid-friendly, so the little ones can easily join in on the fun of making them! Let's dive right into this sweet and simple baking adventure!
Why Choose Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies?
Simplicity at its Finest: With just three ingredients, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, perfect for baking novices and seasoned chefs alike.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids can help mix, roll, and coat these delightful treats, making for a fun family activity.
Flavor Explosion: Bursting with sweet strawberry flavor, each bite is a delightful taste sensation that appeals to all ages.
Versatile Variations: Try different cake mix flavors or add-ins to customize your cookies, ensuring there’s always a new twist on this classic.
Time-Saving Dessert: Ready in under 30 minutes, they're the ideal treat for those who want to enjoy homemade goodness without a time commitment.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Bring them to gatherings, and watch as they disappear-everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients for Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies
For the Batter
• Strawberry Cake Mix - This is the star of the show, providing the sweet strawberry flavor you love; feel free to experiment with any flavored cake mix.
• Canola Oil - Adds essential moisture and binds the ingredients together; you can also swap it with vegetable or olive oil if you prefer.
• Eggs - These help give structure and richness to the cookies, ensuring a soft and chewy texture that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie, so don't skip this step!
Mix together 1/3 cup of canola oil, 2 eggs, and the entire box of strawberry cake mix in a large bowl. Stir until everything is fully blended and the mixture is smooth.
Chill the dough if it’s too sticky. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or use a fork to help roll it into 1-inch balls if you can't wait!
Coat each ball in powdered sugar. Roll them until fully covered; this gives the cookies their signature crinkle and sweetness.
Place the sugar-coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching for cracks but ensuring they’re slightly underbaked.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This allows them to finish baking from the residual heat before transferring them to a wire rack.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar for a sweeter finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the strawberry cake mix, canola oil, and eggs, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain their quality and texture, shape the dough into balls and coat them in powdered sugar just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, simply preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge, adding a minute or two to the baking time if needed. This way, you'll have fresh, warm cookies ready to go whenever cravings strike-ideal for busy weeknights or surprise gatherings!
Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies
Get creative and have fun personalizing these cookies for an extra layer of deliciousness!
Chocolate Cake Mix: Swap strawberry cake mix with chocolate for a rich, decadent version that's sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Lemon Zest: Add fresh lemon zest or lemon cake mix for a refreshing citrus twist that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch that complements the soft cookie texture wonderfully.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips to the dough for an extra burst of sweetness in every bite.
Dairy-Free Treats: Use a dairy-free cake mix and coconut oil in place of canola for a delightful vegan-friendly version of these delicious cookies.
Spicy Ginger: Add ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne for a warm, spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Pudding Powder: Incorporate a packet of vanilla pudding mix for a softer, chewier cookie that melts in your mouth.
Dried Fruits: Toss in dried strawberries or cranberries for a fruity explosion that pairs well with the cake mix base.
Embrace the joy of baking and make these cookies uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies?
When you're ready to enhance your baking adventure, let's pair these adorable cookies with tempting flavors and delightful dishes.
- Creamy Ice Cream: The chilled, creamy texture of vanilla or strawberry ice cream complements the soft, chewy cookies perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries and blueberries for a refreshing contrast that brightens every bite.
- Chocolate Milk: A classic pairing, this rich, sweet drink adds a lovely indulgence to your cookie experience.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits brings a burst of vibrant flavor and complements the sweetness of the cookies.
- Warm Coffee: Enjoy your cookies alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat-perfect for relaxing!
- Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop on the side for an extra creamy touch that perfectly balances the cookies' sweetness!
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate dip made from dark or milk chocolate adds an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with the fruity flavors of the cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a light yet satisfying dessert that balances cookies' richness.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies
Watch the Baking Time: Bake just until the edges are set and the tops have cracked; if you overbake, cookies may lose their soft texture.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes makes it easier to form into balls and prevents them from spreading too much.
Use Enough Powdered Sugar: Don't be shy with the powdered sugar! Rolling the dough balls thoroughly prevents sticking and enhances that delightful crinkle.
Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe features strawberry, use other cake mix flavors for unique variations of strawberry crinkle cake mix cookies that everyone will adore!
Cool on the Sheet: Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before moving them to a rack; this helps settle the texture perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week; just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked taste, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Perfect for these Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies!
Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right strawberry cake mix?
Choosing a high-quality strawberry cake mix is essential for the best flavor. Look for brands that highlight real strawberry ingredients or natural flavors on the label. Avoid mixes with artificial aftertastes. If strawberries aren't in season, you can substitute your cake mix with a lemon or chocolate variant for a delightful twist!
What's the best way to store strawberry crinkle cake mix cookies?
Absolutely! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before indulging again!
Can I freeze strawberry crinkle cake mix cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, start by placing the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag, squeezing out excess air. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky to handle?
No worries! If the dough is sticky, simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll into 1-inch balls without sticking to your hands. If you’re short on time, you can also use a fork to help shape them.
Are there any allergy considerations with strawberry crinkle cake mix cookies?
Yes! These cookies contain eggs and canola oil, which may be allergens for some people. For egg allergies, a flax or chia seed substitute (1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) can work well. Always read the labels on cake mix and powders to ensure they are safe for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I add other ingredients to the cookie batter?
Very much so! You can enhance your strawberry crinkle cake mix cookies by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for additional flavor and texture. Just ensure not to overpower the main strawberry flavor. Enjoy experimenting!
Delightfully Easy Strawberry Crinkle Cake Mix Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix together canola oil, eggs, and the entire box of strawberry cake mix in a large bowl until smooth.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes if it's too sticky.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the sugar-coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching for cracks but ensuring they're slightly underbaked.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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