A Shortcut with Big Flavor
Instead of measuring out flour, sugar, and leavening agents, lemon cake mix does the heavy lifting—delivering consistent results every time.
Perfect Texture
Soft, chewy centers with slightly crisp edges make these cookies irresistible.
Crowd Pleaser
The bright lemon flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making them perfect for parties and bake sales.
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Lemon Cake Cookies
These Lemon Cake Cookies are soft, chewy, and dusted with powdered sugar for a light citrusy treat. Made with simple ingredients like cake mix, they’re quick to bake and bursting with sunshine flavor. 🌞🍪 Perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or when you crave a refreshing dessert — bake a batch today and share the joy!
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients
1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
2 large eggs
⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for richness)
1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine lemon cake mix, eggs, and oil until a soft dough forms.
For extra zestiness, fold in lemon zest.
Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough.
Roll into balls, then coat generously in powdered sugar.
Bake the Cookies
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are set and tops are crackled.
Cool & Serve
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container.
Notes
For softer cookies, avoid overbaking — remove when edges are just set.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drop of lemon extract for stronger citrus flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
These cookies freeze well — simply thaw and dust with extra powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Lemon Cake Cookies
Base Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemon cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vegetable oil | ⅓ cup |
| Lemon zest (optional) | 1 tbsp |
Optional Add-Ins
- White chocolate chips
- Cream cheese filling (for sandwich cookies)
- Powdered sugar (for rolling)
For Glaze (optional)
- Powdered sugar – 1 cup
- Lemon juice – 2–3 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine lemon cake mix, eggs, oil, and lemon zest.
- Stir until a thick dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough (Optional)
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes for easier scooping and to prevent spreading.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls.
- Roll in powdered sugar for crinkle-style cookies if desired.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
- Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
- Drizzle with lemon glaze or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cake Cookies
Don’t Overbake
Cookies should look slightly soft in the center—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Enhance the Lemon Flavor
Add fresh lemon juice or zest to intensify the citrusy brightness.
Chill for Better Shape
Chilling prevents cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Variations to Try
Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Roll dough in powdered sugar before baking for a crinkled top.
Lemon Sandwich Cookies
Fill cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist.
Lemon-White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Stir in white chocolate chips for creamy sweetness.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Using cake mix makes portion control easier.
- For a lighter version, replace some oil with Greek yogurt.
Serving Ideas
Perfect For…
- Afternoon tea parties
- Summer picnics
- Holiday cookie platters
Looking for hearty dinner inspiration before dessert? Try our slow cooker pot roast.
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh berries.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream.
- Arrange on a dessert charcuterie board.
Storage and Freezing
Storage
- Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months.
- Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
FAQs – Lemon Cake Cookies
PAA1: Can I make these without cake mix?
Yes, substitute with a homemade lemon cookie dough using flour, sugar, and lemon zest.
PAA2: Do I need to chill the dough?
Not required, but chilling helps control spreading.
PAA3: Can I add frosting?
Yes! A simple cream cheese or lemon glaze is delicious.
PAA4: Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted butter gives richer flavor but slightly firmer texture.
PAA5: Are these cookies freezer-friendly?
Yes, both baked cookies and raw dough balls freeze well.
PAA6: How do I make them softer?
Bake for less time and store with a slice of bread in the container to keep moisture.
Conclusion
Lemon Cake Cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. With a box of lemon cake mix and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of zesty, soft, and irresistible cookies in no time. Perfect for spring gatherings, bake sales, or anytime you crave a sweet, citrusy treat.