Name: Cake Batter Cookies: Chewy, Colorful Bliss for Everyone
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1.25 cups Granulated Sugar; 0.25 cups Light Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Large); 2 teaspoons Cake Batter Extract (Can substitute with vanilla or butter extracts); 3 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt (Reduce if using salted butter); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Rainbow Sprinkles (Non-bleeding sprinkles preferred); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 5 cups Powdered Sugar; 0.5 teaspoon Cake Batter Extract (Vanilla can be used); 0.25 teaspoon Salt (Skip if using salted butter); 2-4 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream (Adjust for desired fluffiness)

The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the kitchen, igniting a sense of nostalgia that took me back to carefree birthday celebrations. These vibrant Cake Batter Cookies are not just a treat; they are an explosion of festive delight in every chewy bite. Packed with rich buttery flavor and colorful sprinkles, they are irresistibly fun and surprisingly easy to whip up—perfect for those moments when you crave something special without the fuss of complex baking. With no need to chill the dough, these treats come together in no time, making them a go-to for any gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Ready to embark on a joyful baking adventure? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Fun?

Versatile and delightful, these Cake Batter Cookies bring a festive flair to any occasion with their vibrant colors and unique flavor. No Chill Required: You can whip them up quickly—perfect for those impromptu gatherings or sweet cravings. Chewy Texture: The combination of soft centers and slightly crisp edges creates an ideal balance. Kid-Friendly Fun: Everyone will enjoy adding their favorite sprinkles, transforming baking into a joyful experience. If you love desserts as much as I do, you might also enjoy these Banana Oatmeal Cookies or a slice of Lemon Velvet Cake.

Cake Batter Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake deliciousness!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter (1 ½ cups / 339g) – Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture; make sure it’s softened!
Granulated Sugar (1 ¼ cups / 250g) – Provides sweetness and helps the cookies spread perfectly.
Light Brown Sugar (¼ cup / 50g) – Introduces moisture and a deeper flavor with its molasses content.
Large Eggs (2) – Essential for structure and fat, ensuring a smooth and rich dough.
Cake Batter Extract (2 teaspoons) – The secret to that delightful cake flavor; vanilla or butter extracts can substitute if needed.
Baking Powder (3 teaspoons) – Guarantees a light and puffy texture.
Salt (1 teaspoon) – Balances out the sweetness; reduce to ½ teaspoon if using salted butter.
All-Purpose Flour (4 cups / 492g) – Provides structure while keeping the cookies soft and tender.
Rainbow Sprinkles (1 cup) – Adds color and a festive touch without bleeding during baking; perfect for cake batter cookies!

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 226g) – The creamy base of your frosting; don’t forget to soften it first!
Powdered Sugar (5 cups / 575g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
Cake Batter Extract (½ teaspoon) – Ensures the frosting matches the cookie’s delightful flavor; vanilla can work in a pinch.
Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; you can skip it if using salted butter.
Heavy Whipping Cream (2 to 4 tablespoons) – Adjust the texture for your desired fluffiness in the frosting.

Dive into the mixing and enjoy the delightful aroma of these festive cake batter cookies as they fill your kitchen with warmth and joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cake Batter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This will ensure a smooth baking process for your vibrant Cake Batter Cookies, making cleanup easy!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of softened unsalted butter, 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar, and ¼ cup of light brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale in color. This step develops the rich texture that makes your cookies irresistible.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavoring
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. Then, pour in 2 teaspoons of cake batter extract, blending on low speed. This flavor infusion is crucial, as it gives your Cake Batter Cookies that delightful, nostalgic taste reminiscent of birthday cake.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 4 cups of all-purpose flour until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will help keep your cookies soft and chewy.

Step 5: Add Sprinkles
Gently fold in 1 cup of rainbow sprinkles using a spatula, being cautious to avoid breaking them. This step adds the fun, colorful flair that makes your Cake Batter Cookies so visually appealing, as well as enhancing their festive flavor.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, drop 2-3 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each mound. For a uniform shape, flatten the dough slightly with the bottom of a glass. This technique will help your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven, baking smaller cookies for 13-16 minutes and larger ones for 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. This perfect balance creates the signature chewiness of the Cake Batter Cookies.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to set before transferring them to a wire rack, ensuring they maintain their delightful shape and chewy center.

Step 9: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 5 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well to avoid lumps. Then, incorporate ½ teaspoon of cake batter extract and 2 to 4 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream until the frosting reaches your desired fluffy consistency, ready to elevate your cookies.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula to create a smooth layer of frosting on top. To finish, sprinkle additional rainbow sprinkles over the frosting for an extra festive touch, transforming your Cake Batter Cookies into a delightful treat for any occasion.

Expert Tips for Cake Batter Cookies

Soften Butter Properly: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a fluffy texture when creaming. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can create tough cookies instead of the desired chewy centers.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden to keep them chewy.
Explore Mix-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts, to make your Cake Batter Cookies uniquely yours.
Use Quality Sprinkles: Opt for nonpareils or jimmies that won’t bleed color during baking for that vibrant look without ending up with a muddy dough.

Cake Batter Cookies: Creative Twists

Feel free to sprinkle in your own creativity as you whip up these delightful cookies—let your imagination run wild!

Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich flavor contrast. The melty chocolatee goodness pairs beautifully with the cake batter essence!
Fruity Fun: Fold in 1 cup of crushed freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. This not only adds great flavor but also a lovely pink hue to your cookies.
Nutty Variation: Introduce ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunch and depth. The nuts will add a delightful texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cookie center.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative and use almond milk instead of heavy cream in the frosting. This swap makes your cookies just as delicious while accommodating dairy sensitivities.
Chocolate Swirl: Create a swirl of chocolate by adding ½ cup of cocoa powder to your dough. The resulting cookies will have a decadent chocolate flavor with that classic cake batter nostalgia we love!
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor twist that enhances the sweetness. It’s like a hug in a cookie!
Frosting Variations: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut in your frosting for a unique taste. A splash can elevate the frosting to new heights!
Sprinkle Swap: Instead of rainbow sprinkles, try seasonal ones—think pastel for spring or red and green for the holidays. It’s a fun way to celebrate any occasion!

If you’re looking for other sweet delights to try, don’t miss out on making Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies or whipping up some lovely Cookies Cream Ice. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Vibrant Cake Batter Cookies

Indulging in the colorful joy of these delightful cookies? Let’s explore perfect pairings that make for a complete, flavorful experience.

Milk: A classic pairing that complements the sweetness, cooling down the rich flavor of the frosting with each sip.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of ice cream complements the chewy cookies perfectly, creating a delightful dessert sandwich.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tangy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of a warm cup of coffee enhances the sweet notes, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted dark chocolate drizzled over the cookies adds an indulgent, bittersweet contrast to the sugary flavors.
Lemonade: Refreshingly tart lemonade enhances the sweetness and brings a fun, summery vibe to any dessert table.

These pairings will elevate your vibrant cake batter cookies into a memorable treat for both the eyes and palate.

Make Ahead Options

These vibrant Cake Batter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain their chewy texture. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them unfrosted in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, keeping them fresh and delicious. When ready to enjoy, simply frost them with creamy cake batter frosting and top with extra sprinkles. You’ll have party-ready treats with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Cake Batter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness slightly, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave cookies for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. Perfect to revive that freshly baked taste!

Cake Batter Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! The key ingredient to focus on is the unsalted butter. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature, which usually takes about 30-60 minutes out of the refrigerator. Soft butter is vital for achieving that fluffy texture when creaming with sugars. Fresh eggs are also essential—look for ones that are not past their expiration date for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
You can easily store your Cake Batter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh a little longer, refrigerate them in a well-sealed container for up to a week. Just remember, they might become slightly firmer in the fridge, but a quick warm-up in the microwave or oven will bring back their soft, chewy texture!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Very! To freeze your Cake Batter Cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up.

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
A common troubleshooting tip is to make sure your butter is softened and not melted. Melting can lead to overly spreadable cookies. Additionally, if your dough seems too soft before baking, try chilling it for about 15-30 minutes in the fridge. Another factor is the flour; ensure you measure accurately, as too little flour can also cause spreading.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! These Cake Batter Cookies are vegetarian, but if you’re baking for someone with nut allergies, double-check your ingredient labels to ensure that no cross-contamination occurs. As for pets, keep these cookies away from your furry friends as chocolate or certain sweeteners can be harmful to them.

How can I customize the sprinkles in my cookies?
The more the merrier! You can navigate the sprinkle world nicely by selecting nonpareils or jimmies that add appealing visuals without bleeding into the dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider replacing them with crushed freeze-dried fruits or mini chocolate chips for a lovely twist! Just be cautious to mix them gently to maintain the cookie texture.