As a passionate cookbook author and an experienced recipe developer, my culinary journey has been dedicated to perfecting the art of baking, especially when it comes to cookies. Over the years, I’ve delved deep into countless recipes, tirelessly testing and refining them to achieve that irresistible bakery-quality taste and texture. This Crumbl Cookies and Cream copycat cookie recipe stands as a testament to that dedication. What makes this particular recipe an absolute game-changer is its ingenious starting point: a simple vanilla cake mix. This ingredient not only streamlines the baking process, making it incredibly accessible for bakers of all skill levels, but also ensures a consistent, moist, and delightfully rich cookie that rivals its gourmet inspiration.
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from recreating beloved bakery treats in your own kitchen, and these giant Crumbl-inspired cookies offer just that. Each bite promises a harmonious blend of creamy vanilla and crunchy chocolate, a testament to the magic that happens when pantry staples are transformed with a little creativity. Forget complicated steps or a long list of obscure ingredients; this recipe prioritizes ease without ever compromising on flavor or the luxurious texture you crave. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a quick win or a novice eager to impress, these cookies are designed to deliver pure delight.
If you’re as obsessed with generously sized, decadent cookies as I am, you absolutely must try these Super Thick Chocolate Chip Cookies! They are another fan favorite that delivers on indulgence and size, much like our Crumbl copycat creation.
The foundation of these magnificent treats is a rich, incredibly soft cookie base, generously studded with perfectly crushed Oreo cookies. This ensures that every single mouthful is bursting with that iconic chocolate sandwich cookie flavor and a delightful textural contrast. But what truly elevates these to Crumbl-level perfection is the lavish swirl of velvety, creamy frosting crown each cookie. This generous topping transforms them from great cookies into an extraordinary dessert experience, mirroring the allure of store-bought gourmet cookies – yet with an undeniable homemade charm that makes them even more special. Baking them at home imbues them with that extra touch of love and care, making them truly unparalleled.
Beyond the ease and deliciousness, using a cake mix for these cookies offers several undeniable advantages. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about guaranteeing a consistent, tender, and perfectly flavored cookie every single time you bake. This predictability is a blessing, especially for those busy days when you crave something extraordinary without the stress of extensive prep work. Whether you’re planning a cozy evening treat for yourself, preparing a show-stopping dessert for a gathering with friends, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet craving, these Cookies and Cream Cake Mix Cookies are guaranteed to bring a moment of pure magic to every bite. They are quick to whip up, reliably delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Unlocking the Flavor: Essential Recipe Ingredients
Crafting these delectable Cookies and Cream Crumbl copycat cookies requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Below is a detailed look at what goes into both the cookie base and the luscious frosting, along with insights into why each component is essential.
For the Irresistible Cookie Base:
- Vanilla Cake Mix: This is our secret weapon and the heart of this recipe. A good quality vanilla cake mix provides the perfect foundation for a moist, tender, and subtly sweet cookie. It simplifies the dry ingredients, ensuring consistent results and a wonderfully soft crumb that’s reminiscent of a delicate cake, yet sturdy enough for a substantial cookie. Look for a standard 15.25-ounce box for optimal results.
- All-Purpose Flour: While a cake mix forms the base, a touch of all-purpose flour is added to give the cookie dough extra structure and stability. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much, allowing them to bake up into those desirable giant, thick, and chewy delights that Crumbl is famous for. It ensures your cookies hold their shape beautifully.
- Eggs: Essential binders in almost all baking recipes, eggs play a dual role here. They help bind all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dough, and simultaneously add richness and moisture, contributing to the cookies’ soft, luxurious texture. Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Butter (Melted): In place of less flavorful vegetable oils often suggested for cake mix recipes, melted butter infuses our cookies with an unparalleled rich, buttery flavor. This golden addition not only enhances the overall taste but also contributes to the tender chewiness of the final product. Ensure it’s melted but not hot, to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Sour Cream: This ingredient might seem unconventional for cookies, but it’s a game-changer! Sour cream adds an incredible amount of moisture, resulting in an exceptionally tender and soft cookie. Its slight tang also brilliantly balances the sweetness of the cake mix and frosting, creating a more complex and satisfying flavor profile. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best texture.
- Oreo Cookies (Coarsely Chopped): The star of the show! These iconic chocolate sandwich cookies are coarsely chopped and folded into the dough, ensuring every bite is packed with crunchy chocolatey goodness. The larger pieces provide a fantastic textural contrast and an intense Oreo flavor that defines these cookies. Don’t be shy with the chunks!
For the Velvety Dream Frosting:
- Butter (Softened): The backbone of any good buttercream, softened butter provides the creamy base and rich flavor we crave in a frosting. Ensure it’s truly softened, but not melted, for easy creaming and a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Crucial for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth frosting. Unlike granulated sugar, powdered sugar dissolves effortlessly, preventing any gritty texture. It provides the essential sweetness and structure for a pipeable and spreadable frosting. Sifting it can help avoid lumps.
- Vanilla Extract: Flavor, flavor, flavor! A generous amount of good quality vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and depth of the frosting, complementing the vanilla cookie base and the chocolatey Oreos beautifully. Don’t skip it!
- Milk: Used to thin out the frosting to the perfect spreading or piping consistency. Start with a small amount and add more gradually, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired texture. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.
- Oreo Cookies (Finely Chopped): These are incorporated into the frosting itself, adding another layer of Oreo flavor and a subtle, fine texture. Chopping them finely ensures they won’t clog your piping bag if you choose to pipe the frosting, but still provides that delightful cookies and cream experience within the topping.
- Mini Oreos: The ultimate decorative flourish! Placed atop each frosted cookie, mini Oreos are not just adorable; they are instantly recognizable as a signature touch for Crumbl copycat cookies and add a final crunch and visual appeal. Because, why not add more Oreo?
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake These Incredible Crumbl Milkshake Cookies
Creating these sensational Crumbl Cookies and Cream Milkshake Cookies at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve bakery-quality results that will impress everyone.
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough Base. Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and the all-purpose flour. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly, or even sift them, to ensure there are no lumps and they are well combined. This initial step helps create a uniform base for our cookies. Next, add the wet ingredients: the two large eggs, the melted butter (ensure it’s cooled slightly, not hot), and the sour cream. Using either a hand-held electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat these ingredients together on medium speed until they are thoroughly combined and you’ve achieved a thick, cohesive dough. The consistency should be dense but pliable. Finally, gently fold in the coarsely chopped Oreo cookies. Mix just until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, being careful not to overmix, which can develop the gluten in the flour too much and result in tougher cookies.
Step 2: Shape and Prepare for Baking. Once your dough is ready, it’s time to portion and shape your cookies. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop out equal portions of the dough. For truly giant cookies that mimic the Crumbl style, aim for 12 cookies from this batch. Take each measured portion and use your hands to gently work and press the dough into a thick, round patty or disc shape. The thickness is key here, as it helps create that soft, chewy interior. Arrange the shaped cookie dough discs on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking. To avoid overcrowding and to allow for proper airflow, bake approximately 6 cookies at a time, depending on the size of your baking sheet. Give each cookie ample space to spread slightly without touching its neighbors.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection and Cool. Carefully transfer your baking sheet with the shaped cookies into the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 9 to 11 minutes. The key is to bake them just until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but still look very soft, almost underbaked. Overbaking will result in dry cookies, so keep a close eye on them. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. This is a crucial step for achieving that signature soft Crumbl texture: allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to set and firm up as they cool, retaining their moisture and chewiness. Resist the urge to move them too early, as they will be fragile when warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Frosting. While your delicious cookies are cooling, you can whip up the luscious frosting that will top them. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar (sifted, if desired, to ensure maximum smoothness), vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Using either a hand-held mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the ingredients together on medium-high speed until the frosting becomes wonderfully creamy and smooth. If the frosting appears too thick, add the remaining tablespoon of milk, or even a tiny bit more, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a thick yet spreadable consistency. Finally, fold in the finely chopped Oreo cookies. Stir until these delicate crumbs are evenly distributed throughout the creamy frosting, adding another layer of cookies and cream goodness without compromising the frosting’s smooth texture.
Step 5: Frost with Generosity. Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time for the crowning glory – the frosting! You have two excellent options here: you can either use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to generously spread a good amount of the creamy Oreo frosting onto the top of each cooled cookie. Alternatively, for a more professional and visually appealing finish, you can transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your favorite large star or round tip and pipe a beautiful swirl onto each cookie. Don’t be shy; a generous layer of frosting is part of the Crumbl experience!
Step 6: The Final Touch and Serving. To complete your Crumbl Cookies and Cream Milkshake Cookies, carefully place a mini Oreo cookie directly into the center of the frosting on each cookie. This iconic garnish not only adds an extra pop of flavor and crunch but also makes them instantly recognizable as those beloved copycat treats. Your magnificent cookies are now ready to be served and enjoyed! For an authentic Crumbl experience that many enthusiasts swear by, I highly recommend chilling these cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. The chilled frosting and cookie provide a unique, firm, yet tender texture that truly sets them apart and enhances their flavor. Trust me, this small step makes a huge difference!
Pro Tips for Perfect Crumbl Copycat Cookies
Achieving bakery-level perfection with your homemade Crumbl Cookies and Cream cookies is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Mastering the Dough Portion and Shape: To truly replicate the signature giant and thick texture of Crumbl cookies, it’s crucial to use a full 1/4 cup of cookie dough for each cookie. Once measured, don’t just drop the dough; take a moment to use your hands to gently press and shape it into a thick, uniform round disc or patty before placing it on the baking sheet. This ensures even baking and prevents overly thin edges, giving you that desirable chewy-soft center.
- The Art of Not Overbaking: This is perhaps the most critical tip for soft cookies. Bake your cookies for precisely 9-11 minutes. The goal is to remove them from the oven when the edges are just barely set and the centers still appear very soft, even slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook and set as they cool on the hot baking sheet, resulting in that perfectly tender, chewy interior. Overbaking, even by a minute or two, can lead to dry and crumbly cookies, so watch them closely!
- Don’t Skip the Mini Oreo Topping: The mini Oreo isn’t just for decoration; it’s an iconic and essential element of this Crumbl copycat. Not only do these adorable little cookies add an extra layer of crunch and chocolate flavor, but they also visually complete the “milkshake cookie” look. They instantly elevate the presentation and confirm its authenticity.
- Experience the Chill: Serve Them Cold! While delicious warm, these cookies truly shine when served chilled, just like they do at Crumbl stores. Refrigerating the frosted cookies for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours, transforms the texture of both the cookie and the frosting. The cookie becomes firmer yet remains incredibly tender, and the frosting sets into a delightful, almost fudge-like consistency. There’s something undeniably wonderful about that cool, satisfying bite – trust me on this!
- Room Temperature Ingredients for Frosting: Ensure your butter for the frosting is truly softened (but not melted) and your milk is at room temperature. This allows for better emulsification, leading to a smoother, creamier frosting without lumps. Cold ingredients can cause the frosting to curdle or become stiff and difficult to work with.
- Quality Matters: While a cake mix makes things easy, opting for a good quality vanilla cake mix can make a noticeable difference in the flavor depth of your cookies. Similarly, choose your favorite brand of Oreo cookies to ensure the best chocolatey crunch.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Always line your baking sheets with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures even heat distribution, prevents sticking, and makes cleanup a breeze. Never place dough directly onto an unlined baking sheet.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Cookies and Cream Milkshake Cookies for as long as possible, whether you prefer them fresh, chilled, or baked for later. Here are the best ways to store these delicious treats:
Refrigeration: These copycat cookies are particularly delightful when served chilled, making refrigeration a popular storage method. Store the frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chilling process helps the frosting set beautifully and enhances the cookie’s unique texture, making it firmer yet still wonderfully tender.
Room Temperature: If you prefer your cookies at room temperature, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. While still delicious, the frosting will be softer at room temperature compared to when chilled.
Freezing for Long-Term Enjoyment: The good news is that these Cookies and Cream Milkshake Cookies freeze exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy them for up to 3 months. You have several options for freezing:
- Freezing Dough: You can prepare the cookie dough as instructed, shape it into individual discs, and then flash-freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once solid, transfer the dough discs to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to bake, you can bake them from frozen (add a couple of minutes to the baking time) or let them thaw slightly before baking.
- Freezing Baked (Unfrosted) Cookies: Bake the cookies as directed and let them cool completely. Once cool, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash-freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag, using parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
- Freezing Completed Cookies (Frosted): If you want to freeze the cookies fully assembled and frosted, first flash-freeze the frosted cookies on a baking sheet until the frosting is firm. This prevents the frosting from smudging. Once firm, individually wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This method is perfect for having ready-to-eat treats on hand!
Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master your Crumbl Cookies and Cream copycat baking experience:
Absolutely! While the recipe is designed for giant, Crumbl-sized cookies, you can easily adapt it to make smaller versions. For a batch of approximately 20-24 cookies instead of the dozen large ones, use a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tablespoons of dough) for each cookie. Shape them into thick round discs as directed, and then bake them for a slightly shorter duration, typically 8-10 minutes. Ensure the edges are set and the centers are still soft. All other frosting and assembly instructions remain the same. This is a great option for parties or if you prefer a more modest serving size!
Yes, you certainly can! While vanilla cake mix provides a classic base for the cookies and cream flavor, feel free to experiment with other cake mix flavors. A chocolate cake mix would make an even more intense chocolate cookie, or a white cake mix would be very similar to vanilla. Just be aware that different flavors will slightly alter the overall taste profile of the cookie, but the texture should remain consistent.
Frosting consistency is all about balance. If your frosting is too thin, it likely needs more powdered sugar. Add it gradually, a tablespoon at a time, and beat well until it reaches your desired thickness. If your frosting is too thick, it needs more liquid. Add milk, a teaspoon at a time, beating after each addition until it’s perfectly spreadable or pipeable. Remember, it’s easier to add more than to take away!
While a stand mixer can make the process quicker and easier, especially for the frosting, it is by no means essential. A good quality hand-held electric mixer will work perfectly for both the cookie dough and the frosting. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can even mix the cookie dough by hand with a sturdy spoon or spatula, although it will require a bit more arm strength!
Expand Your Baking Horizons: More Easy Cake Mix Cookie Recipes!
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and delicious results of baking with cake mixes, you’re in for a treat! These versatile mixes can be transformed into an array of delightful cookies with minimal effort. Explore more of my easy and satisfying cake mix cookie recipes below:
- Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
- Texas Sheet Cake Cookies
- Boston Cream Pie Cookie Bites
Crumbl Cookies and Cream Cookie Recipe (Copycat)
June Albertson-Dick
15 minutes
25 minutes
40 minutes
12
giant cookies
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Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 box vanilla cake mix, {15.25 ounces}
- ⅔ cups all purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, {melted and slightly cooled}
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Tablespoons sour cream, {full-fat for best results}
- 8 Oreo cookies, {coarsely chopped}
For the Creamy Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, {softened to room temperature}
- 3 cups powdered sugar, {sifted, optional but recommended}
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 Tablespoons milk, {to thin, as needed}
- 6 Oreo cookies, {finely chopped}
- 12 mini Oreo cookies, {for topping}
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
For the Cookies
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and all-purpose flour until well combined. Add the eggs, melted butter, and sour cream. Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat on medium speed until a thick dough forms. Gently fold in the coarsely chopped Oreo cookies until evenly distributed.
-
Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop out 12 portions of dough. With your hands, press each portion into a thick, round disc. Place 6 cookies on each prepared baking sheet, ensuring ample space between them for spreading.
-
Bake one sheet at a time for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet to firm up.
For the Frosting & Assembly
-
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Beat with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if a thinner, more spreadable consistency is desired. Stir in the finely chopped Oreo cookies.
-
Once cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous amount of frosting onto the top of each cookie. Place a mini Oreo cookie into the center of the frosting on each Cookies and Cream Milkshake Cookie. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for a truly authentic Crumbl-style experience.
Notes
- To make approximately 20-24 smaller cookies, use a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tbsp of dough) for each. Shape them as directed and bake for 8-10 minutes. Follow all other steps for frosting and assembly.
- For an even more intense Oreo flavor, use Oreo double-stuffed cookies for the chopped pieces, if desired.
- Always ensure your butter for the frosting is truly softened to room temperature for the creamiest result.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
cookie
,
Calories:
502
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
81
g
,
Protein:
4
g
,
Fat:
18
g
,
Saturated Fat:
10
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
5
g
,
Trans Fat:
1
g
,
Cholesterol:
63
mg
,
Sodium:
471
mg
,
Potassium:
90
mg
,
Fiber:
1
g
,
Sugar:
54
g
,
Vitamin A:
450
IU
,
Vitamin C:
1
mg
,
Calcium:
112
mg
,
Iron:
3
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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