Irresistibly Soft Chocolate Cake Cookies for All Ages

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when those cookies are soft and chewy chocolate cake cookies. Imagine pulling a tray of these delicious treats from the oven; the moment of delight as you take a bite reveals a rich, chocolatey flavor that s simply irresistible. I discovered this fantastic recipe during a rainy afternoon, armed only with a chocolate cake mix and a craving for something sweet.

What makes these cookies a standout is their simplicity. No need for fancy equipment or elaborate techniques just mix a few pantry staples, and you re on your way to cookie perfection. With a wonderfully moist texture and crunchy chocolate chip surprises in every bite, these cookies are perfect for baking with kids or whipping up as a last-minute treat for unexpected guests.

So grab your mixing bowl, and let s dive into the delicious world of chocolate cake cookies!

Why are Chocolate Cake Cookies so beloved?

Irresistible Flavor: These cookies burst with rich chocolate notes, thanks to the combination of cake mix and pudding. Simple Preparation: With minimal ingredients, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time. Perfect for Sharing: Their soft, chewy texture and melty chocolate chips make them a hit at parties or family gatherings. Endless Variations: Feel free to customize with nuts, or chips for a unique twist! Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the little ones involved in mixing and shaping for a delightful bonding activity. You ll find these chocolate cake cookies quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Chocolate Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix This acts as the base for your dough; it s a convenient option, but feel free to swap with any chocolate cake mix you have.
• Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix Adds moisture and depth of chocolate flavor; you can replace it with vanilla pudding for a lighter touch.
• Mayonnaise Provides a rich texture and moisture; for a lighter option, use yogurt or sour cream instead.

For the Mix-Ins

• Semisweet Chocolate Chips These contribute chunks of melty chocolate throughout; try substituting with dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips for a different experience.
• Chopped Walnuts They introduce a delightful crunch; if allergies are a concern, feel free to leave them out for a nut-free version.

These Chocolate Cake Cookies come together effortlessly, guaranteeing a delightful bake that will win the hearts of your family and friends!

How to Make Chocolate Cake Cookies

1. Mix Together: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, instant chocolate fudge pudding mix, and mayonnaise. Stir until all ingredients are blended well and the mixture is smooth.

2. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until they re evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring each bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.

3. Shape the Dough: Use a teaspoon to scoop out portions of the dough and form them into balls. Place the dough balls on greased baking sheets, leaving space between each for expansion.

4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. Look for them to puff up slightly and develop beautiful cracks on the surface before removing them from the oven.

5. Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step allows them to firm up and makes for a perfect texture.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and mayonnaise, then refrigerating the dough in an airtight container to maintain its quality. For even quicker options, you can also scoop the shaped dough balls onto baking sheets and freeze them. When you re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake straight from the freezer for about 2 extra minutes. This way, you can enjoy soft, chewy cookies just as delicious as if they were freshly made, all without the last-minute rush!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate your cookies for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: These chocolate cake cookies freeze wonderfully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until slightly warm and the chocolate chips are melty again.

Chocolate Cake Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these delightful twists!

• Peanut Butter Twists: Replace semisweet chocolate chips with creamy peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor explosion.
  Think warm, comforting childhood memories with each bite that blends chocolate and peanut butter beautifully.

• Espresso Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for an intense, sophisticated chocolate flavor.
  This unexpected addition elevates the richness to dessert heights perfect for coffee lovers.

• Coconut Delight: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
  Each bite will transport you to a sunny paradise with its chewy texture and delightful flavor.

• Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint chocolate experience.
  These cookies will bring a festive touch to your baking, perfect for gatherings year-round.

• Almond Joy-Inspired: Add chopped almond and toasted coconut alongside chocolate chips for an Almond Joy vibe.
  You re not just baking cookies; you re creating a mini-vacation for your taste buds!

• Spice It Up: Include a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder for a surprising flavor kick.
  This delightful twist adds warmth and depth, making your cookies unforgettable.

• Dried Fruit Surprise: Mix in dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity contrast against the rich chocolate.
  Their tartness balances sweetness beautifully, making each cookie an exciting adventure.

• Caramel Drizzle: Top cookies with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
  This gourmet touch elevates your baking game, making these cookies even more decadent!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cake Cookies

• Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350 °F before baking; this step is vital for achieving that perfect cookie texture.

• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake; they should remain soft in the center. Pull them out when you see cracks forming on the surface.

• Uniform Sizing: Use a teaspoon to scoop uniform dough balls; this ensures even baking. Don t forget to space them out on the sheet to allow for expansion.

• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to swap out semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or butterscotch chips. Each variation brings a new and exciting flavor to your chocolate cake cookies!

• Storage Tips: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. They can last up to a week, but I doubt they ll last that long!

What to Serve with Chocolate Cake Cookies?

Imagine a cozy evening filled with laughter, the aroma of freshly baked cookies mingling with the warmth of shared moments. Pairing these chocolate cake cookies with delightful accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to another level!

• Cold Glass of Milk: Nothing beats the classic combination of cookies and milk. The creamy texture complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors. The creaminess enhances the overall dessert bliss.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. The tartness cuts through the richness, making every bite more exciting.

• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the serious chocolate lovers, drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies takes indulgence to the next level. It s a decadent touch sure to please any sweet tooth.

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream beautifully complements the soft texture of the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing that feels luxurious and inviting.

• Coffee or Espresso: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the rich chocolate notes in the cookies. The warmth of the drink makes for a comforting experience.

• Nutty Fig Spread: Surprising, yet delightful, serving the cookies with a dollop of nutty fig spread adds a unique twist. The sweetness of the figs contrasts wonderfully with the cookies richness.

• Chocolate Milkshake: Combine nostalgia and indulgence by pairing these cookies with a thick chocolate milkshake. It s a match made in dessert heaven!

• Homemade Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote, whether made from apples, peaches, or mixed berries, adds a delicious tart contrast to the chocolatey goodness, refreshing your palate with every bite.

Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose a chocolate cake mix for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for a chocolate fudge cake mix that is rich and has good reviews. The darker the mix, the more chocolate flavor your cookies will have. If you want a lighter chocolate taste, you can choose a classic chocolate or a devil s food cake mix. Make sure to check the expiration date as fresher mixes yield better results!

How should I store Chocolate Cake Cookies to keep them fresh?
You can keep these chocolate cake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. I often recommend using a layer of parchment paper between the cookies to help maintain their texture and prevent them from sticking together. If you notice them getting stale, a quick blast in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can bring back some of that lovely softness.

Can I freeze Chocolate Cake Cookies, and how do I do it?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to enjoy these cookies later. To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Next, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. You can keep them frozen for up to 3 months!

What if my cookie dough is too sticky to shape?
No worries! If your dough seems too sticky, it s likely due to the humidity or temperature of your kitchen. An easy fix is to chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and shape. Additionally, you can lightly dust your hands with a bit of flour while shaping the dough balls.

Can I make these cookies nut-free? What alternatives do I have for the walnuts?
Absolutely! If you need to make these cookies nut-free, simply omit the chopped walnuts entirely without any loss in flavor. Feel free to replace them with a delightful crunch from crushed pretzels for a salty contrast, or even use sunflower seeds for a nut-free yet satisfying alternative!

Are there any dietary considerations for allergies when making Chocolate Cake Cookies?
Yes! Be mindful of your ingredients, especially with mayo check for eggs if that s a concern. Using dairy-free chocolate chips and an egg substitute could make the recipe suitable for vegan diets. For gluten-free versions, opt for gluten-free cake mix and ingredients to ensure all your guests can enjoy these delightful cookies!