Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies

This strawberry cake mix cookie recipe has become my secret weapon for Valentine's Day treats. The pretty pink color and simple preparation make them irresistible for holiday gatherings or anytime you need a cheerful sweet that impresses without hours in the kitchen.

I first discovered this recipe when planning a last minute Valentine's party for my daughter's class. The cookies were such a hit that the room mom asked for the recipe before the party even ended.

Ingredients

• Gluten free cake mix: providing the perfect cookie base while keeping these friendly for those with sensitivities
• Strawberry jello mix: giving these cookies their vibrant pink color and fresh strawberry flavor
• Softened butter: creating a rich tender texture in every bite
• Cream cheese: adding a subtle tangy flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully
• Large egg: binding everything together for the perfect cookie structure
• White chocolate chips: melting perfectly for an elegant finishing drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cookie dough:

Combine cake mix strawberry jello mix softened butter cream cheese and egg in a large mixing bowl. Use your hand mixer on medium speed until everything is fully incorporated. The dough will be slightly sticky but cohesive.

Shape the cookies:

Use a measuring tablespoon to portion the dough then roll each portion into balls with your hands. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Gently flatten each dough ball with either your palm or the bottom of a flat glass until they are about half an inch thick.

Bake to perfection:

Place in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. The cookies are done when they have spread slightly and the edges are just set while the centers remain soft. Be careful not to overbake as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

Shape into perfect circles:

Immediately after removing from the oven while the cookies are still hot and pliable use a circular cookie cutter mason jar lid or large glass rim to reshape each cookie into a perfect circle. Simply place your circular tool around each cookie and gently move it in a circular motion to create uniform edges.

Cool completely:

Using a spatula carefully transfer the shaped cookies to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before adding the white chocolate drizzle approximately 30 minutes.

Add the finishing touch:

Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl using 50 percent power and stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Transfer the melted chocolate to a sandwich bag snip a tiny corner and drizzle back and forth over each cooled cookie for a professional finishing touch.

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The strawberry jello is my secret ingredient that makes these cookies special. My grandmother used to make a similar recipe and the nostalgic strawberry aroma that fills the kitchen always brings back memories of baking with her during school breaks.

Make Ahead Options

These strawberry cookies can be prepared up to three days before serving. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For maximum freshness add a slice of bread to the container as it releases moisture that keeps the cookies perfectly soft. The bread will gradually harden as it gives its moisture to the cookies but your treats will remain deliciously tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different dietary needs or preferences. Regular yellow cake mix works perfectly if gluten sensitivity isn't a concern. For different flavor variations try raspberry or cherry jello instead of strawberry. Vegan butter and plant based cream cheese can replace the dairy components though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. If you prefer a different topping dark chocolate drizzle or colored sprinkles make wonderful alternatives to white chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

These pretty pink cookies create a stunning presentation when arranged on a tiered serving plate. For Valentine's Day place them in alternating rows with chocolate cookies for a festive display. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk tea or even champagne for an adult gathering. For an extra special dessert sandwich vanilla ice cream between two cookies and freeze for homemade ice cream sandwiches that will delight everyone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with vanilla or white cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile that still pairs well with the strawberry jello.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft and moist for up to 5 days.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches for twice the deliciousness.

→ What can I use instead of a cookie scoop?

If you don't have a cookie scoop, a regular measuring tablespoon works well for portioning the dough evenly.

→ Can I skip the white chocolate drizzle?

Yes, the white chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a nice decorative touch and extra sweetness to the cookies.