The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and of course, delightful treats. These Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies are the perfect blend of simplicity and festive cheer, offering a quick and delicious way to spread some Christmas spirit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box white cake mix (any brand)
• 2 large egg whites (no yolks)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 cup red, white, and green holiday sprinkles

Why These Santa Cookies Are a Holiday Hit

Incredibly Easy to Make

Forget complicated cookie recipes. These Santa cookies use a cake mix as the base, making them foolproof for bakers of all skill levels. From kids to grandparents, everyone can join in the cookie-making fun.

Quick Preparation

Total time from start to finish is under 30 minutes, including baking. Perfect for busy holiday schedules or last-minute cookie exchanges.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper
3. Gather all ingredients

Mixing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, egg whites, and flour
2. Pour in vegetable oil
3. Mix until a soft dough forms
4. Fold in chocolate chips
5. Gently stir in holiday sprinkles

Shaping and Baking

1. Scoop dough into 1-inch balls
2. Place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets
3. Optional: Press additional chocolate chips on top for extra decoration
4. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden
5. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes
6. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely

Pro Baking Tips

Achieving Perfect Santa Cookies

• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
• Don’t overmix the dough
• Leave space between cookies for spreading
• Watch carefully to prevent over-browning

Sprinkle Strategy

• Add sprinkles just before baking
• Mix some into dough, save some for topping
• Use festive color combinations

Variations and Modifications

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix
• Egg-Free: Use egg substitute or applesauce
• Vegan: Select plant-based cake mix and egg replacer

Flavor Twists

• Use chocolate cake mix for double chocolate cookies
• Add peppermint extract for a holiday flavor
• Substitute white chocolate chips
• Mix in crushed candy canes

Storage Recommendations

Keeping Cookies Fresh

• Room temperature: 3-4 days in airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to a week
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (layer between parchment paper)

Nutritional Insights

Approximate Nutrition (per cookie)

• Calories: 120-150
• Total Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 18-22g
• Protein: 1-2g

Serving Suggestions

Santa Cookie Presentation

• Arrange on festive holiday plate
• Pair with milk or hot cocoa
• Package as homemade gifts
• Great for cookie exchanges

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Potential Baking Challenges

• Flat Cookies: Ensure fresh cake mix
• Dry Texture: Don’t overmeasure flour
• Uneven Baking: Rotate baking sheet midway
• Stuck Cookies: Use parchment paper

Final Thoughts

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies combine the magic of holiday baking with incredible simplicity. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these cookies promise to bring smiles and sweet memories.

So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the holiday baking begin!