Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies (Printer-Friendly)

Strawberry cake mix cookies with cream cheese, chocolate chips, and M&Ms, soft and easy for any occasion.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough Base

01 - 1 box strawberry cake mix (15.25 to 16.25 oz)
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature

→ Mix-ins

06 - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
07 - 1/2 cup M&Ms candies (pink/red or assorted colors)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
02 - Gradually add the strawberry cake mix to the wet mixture and stir until a uniform dough forms.
03 - Use a spatula to gently fold in the white chocolate chips and M&Ms until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
04 - Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to help maintain the cookie shape during baking.
05 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion dough into walnut-sized balls and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
07 - Allow cookies to cool briefly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For vibrant color, add a few drops of red food coloring to the dough as desired.
02 - For extra visual appeal, press additional M&Ms onto each cookie before baking.
03 - Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
04 - Optional mix-ins include chopped nuts, freeze-dried strawberries, or sprinkles for texture variation.