Name: Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15.25 ounces white cake mix (432 g); 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons peppermint extract or mint extract; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; green gel food coloring (amount as needed to achieve desired color); ¼ cup powdered sugar (32 g); 3 tablespoons cornstarch; red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon to decorate

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 78 reviews

If you are searching for a festive treat that is as delightful in flavor as it is eye-catching, the Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. These bright green cookies, infused with refreshing peppermint and made from white cake mix, offer a soft and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Coated in a delicate mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch, then topped with a charming red heart sprinkle, they bring a burst of holiday cheer and a fun twist to your dessert table. Whether baking for a cozy night in or gifting to friends, this recipe balances ease and irresistible flavor like no other.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six small white bowls and one brown egg arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing a different ingredient. The largest bowl in the lower right is filled with a lumpy white powder, likely ricotta cheese. Above it is an oval white bowl holding three thick blocks of pale yellow butter. To the upper left, a white bowl contains a dark brown liquid, possibly soy sauce or balsamic vinegar. Below it are two more small white bowls; one holds a bright green liquid, likely olive oil, and the other has fine white powder, possibly flour or baking powder. At the bottom left is another small white bowl filled with white granulated salt. The brown egg is positioned between the green liquid and dark brown liquid bowls. The scene is neat and well-lit, with all items clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of versatile ingredients is all it takes to make these irresistible cookies. Each element plays a critical role, from the cake mix providing the soft, cake-like texture to the peppermint extract that breathes life into every bite. The green gel food coloring adds a festive splash, making these cookies as fun to look at as they are to eat.

White cake mix (15.25 ounces): The base that makes these cookies super soft and wonderfully tender with minimal effort.
Unsalted butter (8 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness and a smooth texture, helping the cookies hold together beautifully.
Eggs (2, room temperature): Bind all the ingredients together and add moisture for the perfect chewiness.
Peppermint extract (2 teaspoons): Delivers that unmistakable fresh, minty flavor key to this recipe’s holiday vibe.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Balances the mint with warm, subtly sweet notes.
Green gel food coloring (as needed): Gives the dough its signature bright, festive green without watering down the batter.
Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Helps create the pretty, sweet coating that adds a delicate crunch.
Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Keeps the coating smooth and prevents it from clumping for an even finish.
Red heart-shaped sprinkles: Adds a vibrant and playful touch to the top, perfect for holidays or any joyful celebration.

How to Make Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple preparation prevents sticking and ensures your cookies bake evenly with a nice bottom crust.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, and eggs. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat these together until the dough is smooth and fully blended. This mixing stage is key to achieving a uniform texture so every cookie bakes up tender and consistent.

Step 3: Add Flavorings and Color

Next, stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract for that fresh and comforting flavor profile. Then add green gel food coloring a little at a time until you reach a vibrant, festive green. Stir gently at low speed to keep the dough thick and slightly sticky, which is ideal for the next coating step.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating Mixture

Whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl. This combination smooths out the coating and ensures the cookies will have that classic, snowy sugar finish with a slight crispness.

Step 5: Form and Coat the Cookies

Using a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out dough balls and roll each one thoroughly in the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture. Don’t be shy here—the more coating, the better the texture contrast and appearance. Space the coated balls about an inch apart on your baking sheet to allow room for spreading.

Step 6: Bake and Decorate

Bake the cookies for about 12 minutes, watching for set edges and dry-looking tops without browning. Right after pulling them out of the oven, gently press a red heart-shaped sprinkle on each cookie’s center. This simple decoration adds charm and makes these treats truly irresistible.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Cooling a bit on the pan helps them firm up enough to transfer without breaking, finishing off their perfect texture.

How to Serve Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

The image shows round light green cookies arranged on a metal cooling rack placed over a white marbled surface. Each cookie is cracked on top, revealing a slightly darker green shade inside. The surface of the cookies is dusted with white powdered sugar, giving them a soft, snowy look. In the center of each cookie, there is a small, bright red heart shape that adds a pop of color and visual interest. The cookies have a slight rise and a soft texture that looks chewy and tender. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cookies are already festive on their own, but you can enhance their appeal with a few simple garnishes. Try sprinkling crushed peppermint candy or edible glitter over the tops for extra sparkle. A light drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of extra powdered sugar also makes them look stunning at any party.

Side Dishes

Serve your Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a peppermint mocha for a minty flavor explosion. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk to balance out their sweet and minty profile.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or festive displays, arrange these cookies on a decorative plate with sprigs of fresh mint and holly berries. Wrap a stack with a bright ribbon or place them in clear treat bags tied with a red bow for a charming homemade gift that anyone would cherish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for up to a week. Layer them with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate coating.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain their tender texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies freshly baked, pop them in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to revive their soft, just-out-of-the-oven feel. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy or dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cake mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! While white cake mix is ideal for the bright green color and tender crumb, yellow or vanilla cake mix can be substituted. Just note the final color and flavor might be a bit different, but still delicious.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If peppermint extract is unavailable, you can use mint extract instead. Both provide the necessary mint flavor, though peppermint has a slightly sharper profile.

Is it necessary to use gel food coloring?

Gel food coloring is preferred because it imparts vibrant color without thinning out the dough. Liquid food coloring can be used in a pinch but may affect dough consistency.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

There’s no need to chill the dough with this recipe. It’s designed to be scooped and baked immediately for the best tender texture.

Can these cookies be gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the white cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix with similar consistency. Just ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Making the Green Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm holiday hug filled with minty sweetness and vibrant color. These cookies are not only simple to whip up but also bring genuine joy with every bite and every glance. Whether baking for special occasions or indulging your own cravings, I encourage you to embrace this recipe and let it brighten your kitchen and dessert table. You will fall in love with the deliciousness and festive charm it brings.