Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive, fun, and super easy way to celebrate the holiday season, this Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is where it’s at. These cookies are delightfully soft, sweet, and bursting with that vibrant green color that screams holiday cheer. Plus, they’re such a breeze to whip up—perfect for when you want holiday treats without the fuss.

I remember the first time I tried making these cookies for a Christmas party. Everyone loved how they not only looked adorable but also tasted like a soft, cakey dream right out of the oven. If you’ve been searching for a quick, crowd-pleasing holiday cookie, you’ll absolutely enjoy this Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe—it’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re baking with the kids or just need a last-minute dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about this Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is how simple and straightforward the ingredients are. Each one works together to create that perfect soft and chewy texture while the green food coloring gives them their iconic Grinchy look.

• Vanilla cake mix: I like to use Betty Crocker for consistent results, but any good-quality box works. It forms the cookie base and gives that light, fluffy texture.
• Vegetable oil: This keeps the cookies moist and tender without weighing them down.
• Eggs: They help bind the ingredients and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Just a touch boosts the flavor and complements the cake mix perfectly.
• Green gel food coloring: I recommend gel over liquid—it gives a stronger color without changing the dough’s consistency.
• Confectioners sugar: For the classic “snowy” coating on the outside, adding sweetness and a pretty finish.
• Cornstarch: Helps keep the coating light and prevents the sugar from clumping up on the cookies.
• Candy hearts or sprinkles: Optional but adorable—these add a fun, festive touch and remind me of the Grinch’s quirky charm.

Variations

I love how versatile this Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe can be. I often switch up the toppings and sometimes sneak in different flavors to make it my own. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might discover your signature Christmas cookie!

• Chocolate chip twist: Adding mini chocolate chips to the batter gives a melty chocolate surprise—I did this last Christmas and it was a big hit with my chocolate-loving family.
• Almond extract swap: For a slightly different aroma, try swapping vanilla with almond extract. It adds a subtle nutty flavor that’s delicious.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix if you’re baking for friends with dietary restrictions—it works just as well!
• Holiday sprinkles: Instead of candy hearts, use red and white sprinkles for a more traditional Christmas vibe.

How to Make Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix Up Your Dough

Start by pouring your vanilla cake mix into a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then squeeze in enough green gel food coloring to get that bright, Grinchy hue you want. I usually start with a teaspoon and add more if needed. Stir everything together until the dough is smooth and evenly green—no streaks! It’ll feel soft and slightly sticky, which is perfect.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix the confectioners sugar and cornstarch. This mix is what your cookies will roll through before baking. The cornstarch keeps the sugar from clumping and adds a light texture to the coating.

Step 3: Shape and Coat Your Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Then roll each ball in the confectioners sugar mixture, making sure they’re well coated. This step is key for the classic “powdered sugar” look that contrasts so nicely with the green.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the edges look set but the centers still look soft, they’re done. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Add Festive Touches

Right after baking, while the cookies are still warm, press a candy heart or sprinkle on each one. You can get creative here—this little detail gives your Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe that extra pop and personality.

How to Serve Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I typically stick with candy hearts or green and red holiday sprinkles for garnish because they add sweetness and color without overpowering the cookie’s flavor. Sometimes I dust a little extra confectioners sugar on top right before serving for that snow-kissed look.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a classic hot chocolate or a cozy cup of eggnog. I also enjoy serving them alongside a simple fruit salad or a warm spiced cider during holiday gatherings—it’s a balance of sweet and refreshing that folks really appreciate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a holiday party, I’ve arranged these cookies on a festive platter surrounded by pine sprigs and cinnamon sticks. Another fun idea is packaging a few in clear bags tied with red ribbon to give as gifts. Kids especially love helping decorate little cookie boxes to share with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover Grinch Cake Mix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and tasty for about 3 to 4 days. Keeping them in a single layer with parchment paper between helps prevent sticking and keeps their shape intact.

Freezing

If I want to prep these cookies in advance, I freeze the dough balls before baking. Just place them on a tray lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time—it’s a real time saver!

Reheating

To refresh leftover cookies, I pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This brings back their soft, cake-like texture and makes them taste freshly baked again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Grinch Cake Mix Cookies Recipe has become a holiday staple in my house because it’s easy, festive, and just plain fun to make. Whether you’re baking with family, hosting a party, or simply want to add some color and sweetness to your holiday table, these cookies deliver every single time. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I have—they’re a cheerful reminder that baking can be simple, joyful, and delicious all at once.

Print