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Chocolate Chip Cake Mix Cookie Bars

These Easy Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips and colorful spring M&M candies. Made with simple pantry staples and just one bowl, this recipe is perfect for busy Easter weekends when you want a festive dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. The cake mix shortcut keeps things quick while delivering rich, bakery-style cookie bars every time. Whether you’re hosting Easter brunch, attending a family gathering, or just craving a fun seasonal treat, these bars are easy to make, easy to share, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Yellow cake mix – Any brand works just fine so use what you have.
  • Large eggs 2 – These help bind everything together and give the bars structure.
  • Neutral oil – Vegetable oil is ideal since it won’t compete with the flavors but canola or avocado oil also work. Just note: stronger oils may slightly affect taste.
  • Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the sweetness.
  • Easter or spring M&M candies – For color crunch, and festive flair.
  • Chocolate chips – Semi-sweet is a classic choice but milk or dark chocolate are great swaps.

Method
 

Step 1:

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.

Baking Tip: Want to mix things up? Try using chocolate, funfetti, or strawberry cake mix for a fun flavor twist.

    Step 2:

    In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Stir until a thick dough forms. Gently fold in the M&M candies and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

      Step 3:

      Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

        Step 4:Bake for 20–25 minutes, just until the edges are set and the center looks slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

        Cooling Tip:

        Don’t rush this step—cooling helps the bars firm up and slice cleanly.

          Notes

          Helpful Tips for Best Results

          • Don’t overbake. Slightly underdone centers = softer, chewier bars.
          • Line the pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and cleaner slices.
          • Customize the mix-ins. Mini eggs, white chocolate chips, or pastel sprinkles all work beautifully.

          FAQs

          Can I make these ahead of time?
           Yes! These bars store well at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5 days.
          Can I freeze them?
           Absolutely. Wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
          Do I need a mixer?
           Nope. A bowl and spoon are all you need—easy cleanup included.

          Final Thoughts

          These Easter cake mix cookie bars are proof that holiday desserts don’t need to be complicated to be impressive. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for busy Easter weekends, family gatherings, or last-minute dessert needs. One pan, endless variations, and guaranteed smiles—this recipe is a keeper. 🐣🍪