Name: Lemon Cake Box Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix (15.25 oz); ¼ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ⅓ cup powdered sugar

These Lemon Cake Box Cookies are a delightful and easy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and a box of lemon cake mix, you can whip up a batch of soft, fluffy, and flavorful cookies that are bursting with lemony goodness. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and a great option for beginner bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Convenient: Using a cake mix makes these cookies incredibly easy to prepare, with minimal effort and ingredients.
Lemony Delight: These cookies are bursting with fresh lemon flavor from both lemon juice and zest.
Soft and Fluffy: The powdered sugar coating creates a delicate sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

Lemon cake mix: Use a standard 15.25-ounce box of lemon cake mix.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright and tangy lemon flavor.
Lemon zest: Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.
Powdered sugar: Creates a sweet and delicate coating.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Lemon Cake Box Cookies

Step 1: Combine Ingredients and Chill

In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir with a spatula until well combined. The dough will be sticky, so cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to make it easier to handle.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 3: Shape and Coat

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll the ball in powdered sugar until it’s generously coated. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are set and puffy. They should not be browning. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh lemons: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough is essential for making it easier to handle and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in dry and crumbly cookies. Bake just until they are set and puffy.

How to Serve Lemon Cake Box Cookies

Afternoon Treat: These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Dessert: Serve them as a light and refreshing dessert after a meal.
Party Favor: Package them up in individual bags or boxes for a sweet party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like, but the lemon flavor is what makes these cookies special.

Can I add other ingredients to these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add white chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts to the dough.

Can I make these cookies without powdered sugar?
Yes, you can omit the powdered sugar, but it adds a lovely sweetness and texture to the cookies.

How can I make these cookies crispier?
Bake them for a few minutes longer, or use a higher oven temperature.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Lemon Cake Box Cookies that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy!