Why complicate when you can simplify without compromising on flavor? That’s the idea behind today’s Chocolate Chip and Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. Imagine, classic oatmeal cookies harmonizing with tart notes of dried cherries, dark chocolate decadence, and the rich, velvety notes of a yellow cake mix.

Yes, you read that right – the secret ingredient that transforms these cookies into a effortless treat that's as easy to make as it is heavenly to savor, is a yellow cake mix. The star of our show is undeniably the cake mix, since it streamlines the baking process without compromising on taste. Forget complicated ingredient lists and intricate steps; this recipe is your express ticket to cookie bliss. With the shortcut of the cake mix, we have significantly condensed the baking process, making it accessible to even the busiest of home bakers.

Whether you're indulging in a quiet evening with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hosting a dinner party get together, these cookies should be your next go-to. Whether paired with freshly brewed coffee, a scoop of homemade ice cream, or simply a tall glass of milk, these cookies are a treat for every palate.

Read on for an ingredient checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you’ll need, a printable recipe card, and pairing suggestions.

Now, let’s get to it.

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Ingredient Checklist – Everything You’ll Need

Yellow Cake Mix (15.25 oz):
- Note: The cake mix acts as the base for the cookies, condensing much of the prep work into a single ingredient, and simplifying the baking process overall.
- Tip: Opt for a high-quality cake mix for the best results, such as a premium super moist mix. We want the cookies to be rich with a nice fluffy texture.
Light Brown Sugar (1/2 cup):
- Note: I’m opting for brown sugar to give the cookies a nice coloration, and delicious ‘molasses sweetness.’
- Tip: Ensure your brown sugar is well-packed for accurate measurements.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened):
- Note: Provides richness and a buttery flavor to the cookies. It also gives them a nice exterior crisp.
- Tip: For even mixing, make sure the butter is softened but ‘not’ melted.
Canola Oil (1/2 cup):
- Note: This brings the fat, which helps to bind the cookies.
- Tip: You want a mild or neutral flavored oil.
Egg (1):
- Note: Acts as a binding agent and contributes to the cookies' structure.
- Tip: Use a room temperature egg for better incorporation into the batter.
Quick Oats (2 cups):
- Note: Adds a hearty texture to the cookies.
Dried Cherries (1/2 cup, chopped):
- Note: Brings a burst of sweet and tart flavor to complement the cookies.
- Tip: Substituting with raisins or cranberries is a delicious alternative.
Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup):
- Note: I’m using dark chocolate chips, since I feel these meld nicely with the brown sugar.
- Tip: Feel free to use dark, milk, white, or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Or even mix them all together.
Pecans (1/2 cup, chopped):
- Note: For nutty goodness and a bit of crunch.
- Tip: Toasting the pecans will enhance their flavor.
Vanilla (2 tsp):
- Note: I’m using vanilla as a matter of preference, you can experiment with other extracts or flavors.
- Tip: While I’m using pure vanilla extract, pods or powder will also work just fine.
Brandy (2 tbsp):
- Note: Introduces a subtle depth of flavor that plays deliciously with the brown sugar.
- Tip: Feel free to experiment, such as with whiskey or rum if preferred.
Parchment Paper:
- Note: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking pan.
- Tip: Parchment paper also makes cleanup a breeze.
Powdered Sugar (for dusting):
- Note: A finishing touch for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Tip: Dust the sugar just before serving for a fresh appearance.

Tips for Making Cake Mix Oatmeal Cookies:

Choose High-Quality Cake Mix:
- This is the base of the recipe, so opt for a decent quality mix, especially one that’s labeled as moist.
Properly Measure Brown Sugar:
- This part’s important. Remember to tamp down the brown sugar into the measuring cup to ensure accurate measurements.
Softened, Not Melted Butter:
- I advise softening the butter to room temperature for easy mixing, but avoid melting it to maintain the cookies’ structure.
Mild Canola Oil:
- This part cannot be stressed enough. Use a flavor neutral oil such as canola, corn, or vegetable oil, otherwise the oil will easily overpower the cookies.
Room Temperature Egg:
- Allow the egg to come to room temperature before adding it to the batter for better incorporation.
Quick Oats for Chewiness:
- This is largely down to preference, but I found that quick oats gave the cookies a nice chewiness, but feel free to experiment with your preferred type of oats.
Chop Dried Cherries Uniformly:
- This is for two reasons. First and foremost, you want to chop up the cherries to ensure there are no pits. Second, chopping up the cherries ensures that they become evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
Experiment with Chocolate Chips:
- Here’s the fun part. Use any type of chocolate you prefer, whether its white chocolate chips, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or any other type. Have fun with it.
Toasted Pecans for Enhanced Flavor:
- Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter to intensify their nutty flavor.
Use Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup:
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This one tip makes cleanup so much easier.

The Perfect Pairings – Maximizing Enjoyment

Coffee Delight:
- The most obvious pairing out there is to enjoy these cookies with a fresh cup of coffee for dessert. Dunk away.
Milk's Perfect Companion:
- And if the coffee pairing was the most obvious, this one certainly. Every cookie out there loves a tall glass of milk as a companion, and these Cherry Chocolate Chips are no different.
Ice Cream Extravaganza:
- I love homemade ice cream, and you should. Consider sandwiching some homemade ice cream between a pair of these Cherry Chocolate Chips, and you’re in dessert heaven.
Tea Time Indulgence:
- Accompany your afternoon tea with these cookies for a sweet and satisfying afternoon indulgence.
Party Pleaser:
- Serve these cookies at gatherings, parties, or potlucks. They’re an ideal accompaniment to any dessert spread.