If you’re looking to bring a little celebration into your everyday baking, this Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Sandwiches Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine soft, colorful cookies packed with sprinkles, perfectly sandwiching a luscious, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth—each bite bursts with happiness and just the right balance of texture and flavor. It’s a dessert that feels like a party and is straightforward enough to whip up for any occasion, guaranteed to brighten up your kitchen and your day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays an important role in creating the magic of this recipe. From the vibrant Funfetti cake mix that brings color and sweetness, to the cream cheese that lends richness and tanginess to the frosting—every component is essential.
- Funfetti cake mix (14.25 ounces): The base of your cookies provides flavor, color, and that fun sprinkle-packed look.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Adds moisture and softens the cookie texture for that perfect chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind everything together while adding a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter (16 tablespoons total): Divided between dough and frosting, butter gives richness and buttery flavor in every bite.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the sweet flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- Mix-ins of your choice (1/2 cup): Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to customize your cookies.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates the silky, tangy frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Just a pinch to brighten the frosting’s flavors.
- Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens the frosting and gives it that creamy texture that’s essential for sandwiching.
How to Make Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the Funfetti cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, room temperature butter, eggs, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer or a large bowl with a hand mixer. Beat the ingredients until you get a thick dough that hugs the beaters. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as you go to ensure even mixing. If you’re feeling adventurous, gently fold in your chosen mix-ins now to add an extra personal touch.
Step 2: Form the Cookie Balls
Using about 1-1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie (approximately 30 grams), roll the dough into smooth balls. This uniform size helps the cookies bake evenly and maintain their puffy texture. Pop these dough balls into the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes — chilling them is a little secret that helps keep these cookies thick and soft after baking.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Space the chilled dough balls about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread just enough. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden and set, but the cookies still look soft on top. This careful timing keeps them tender and fluffy. After baking, let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before adding frosting.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Microwave your cream cheese in 15 to 20-second bursts until it’s soft and pliable. Then, beat it together with room temperature butter until the mixture is perfectly creamy and smooth. Add vanilla and a touch of salt to balance the sweetness, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar. Start slow, then crank up the speed to get that luscious, fluffy frosting. If you want it sturdier for piping, throw in an extra 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Chill the frosting for 20 to 30 minutes to firm it up—it makes assembling so much easier!
Step 5: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches
Once the cookies are completely cool, fill a piping bag with your frosting. Pipe generous swirls on the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat until all your cookies are beautifully paired. For the best soft and tender texture reminiscent of classic whoopie pies, wrap the sandwiches in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature so the frosting becomes soft and creamy again.
How to Serve Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra rainbow sprinkles on the frosting before sandwiching the cookies together for an eye-catching pop of color. Alternatively, a dusting of edible glitter or a few mini chocolate chips layered into the frosting can add a whimsical touch perfect for celebrations or just because!
Side Dishes
Pair these joyful cookie sandwiches with a cold glass of milk or a creamy vanilla latte to balance the sweetness. For a party, consider serving with fresh fruit or a light sorbet to brighten the flavor profile after biting into the sweet and creamy treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies on a rustic wooden board or showcase them in a clear glass jar tied with colorful ribbons for an inviting dessert table. You could also serve them alongside cupcakes or mini cheesecakes for a colorful, fun dessert spread that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cookie sandwiches hold up wonderfully in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Keep them chilled to preserve the freshness and the creamy frosting texture for up to five days.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead for a special occasion, freeze the cookies before sandwiching. Store dough balls or baked cookies on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a sealed container or freezer bag. Frost later with freshly made cream cheese frosting once thawed for the best texture.
Reheating
Because of the cream cheese frosting, these cookies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature rather than reheated. Let them sit out for 20 minutes before serving if taken out of the fridge, and enjoy their soft, creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the classic Funfetti cake mix gives a festive look, you can experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or any flavor you love. Just keep in mind that the frosting will pair best with mild or complementary flavors.
What mix-ins work best in these cookies?
Chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, nuts, or even small candies can be folded into the dough. Just avoid anything too wet or large that might disrupt the cookie’s soft texture.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Substituting dairy ingredients can be tricky because butter and cream cheese are key here for texture and flavor. However, using vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative might work—expect slight differences in taste and consistency.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough balls is crucial to keep the cookies thick and puffy. Also, be careful not to over-mix the dough and don’t overbake them, as this dries them out and flattens the texture.
Can I use homemade frosting instead of cream cheese frosting?
Sure! If cream cheese frosting isn’t your favorite, a simple buttercream or whipped vanilla frosting would also complement these cookies nicely. Just remember that cream cheese frosting offers a wonderful tangy balance to the sweet cake cookies.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Sandwiches Recipe enough for anyone who loves a fun, colorful treat that comes together easily but delivers incredible flavor. Whether it’s a birthday, a special get-together, or just because you deserve a little sweetness, these sandwiches are guaranteed to bring smiles. So go ahead, dive into baking this joyful recipe—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 26 cookies (13 sandwiches)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful and colorful Cake Mix Cookies made using Funfetti cake mix and instant pudding for extra moistness. These soft, fluffy cookies are baked to perfection, then sandwiched with a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for parties and celebrations.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 (14.25-ounce) package Funfetti cake mix (or alternate flavor)
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mix-ins of choice (e.g., chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (brick-style, softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: In a stand mixer or large bowl with a hand mixer, combine the Funfetti cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until a very thick dough forms, scraping the bowl as needed. Gently fold in any desired mix-ins.
- Form: Roll approximately 1-1/2 tablespoons (about 30 grams) of dough into balls. Place on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes to help them maintain puffiness during baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Space dough balls about 2 inches apart on the sheet. Bake for 9–10 minutes, until the bottoms are slightly browned. Avoid overbaking. Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Make Frosting: Soften cream cheese in the microwave using 15–20 second bursts until at room temperature. In a mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla extract and salt, then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium-high and beat for 1–2 minutes until creamy. For thicker frosting, add an extra 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Chill frosting for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Assemble: Once cookies have cooled completely, place frosting into a piping bag fitted with a wide tip. Pipe frosting onto one cookie and gently sandwich with another. Continue with all cookies. Cover whoopie pies with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let them soften. Before serving, bring to room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the Funfetti cake mix with any other cake mix flavor for a different twist.
- Mix-ins can include chocolate chips, nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit based on your preference.
- Refrigerating the dough balls helps cookies retain their shape and prevents spreading.
- Do not overbake to ensure soft and tender cookies.
- Allowing the assembled whoopie pies to rest overnight in the fridge helps the frosting soften and enhances flavors.
