Can I make 3 ingredient cake mix cookie bars with just eggs and oil?

Yes — for a minimalist version, combine cake mix, 2 eggs, and ½ cup vegetable oil. The texture will be slightly more cake-like and less chewy, but still delicious.

What brands work best for Betty Crocker Cake Mix Bars?

Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, and Pillsbury all work beautifully. If you’re after a fluffier bar, go for Duncan Hines. For denser bars, Betty Crocker is a top pick.

Are there lazy cookie bars with cake mix that don’t require eggs?

Absolutely! Swap eggs for ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water). It’s a great lazy-day, no-grocery-run workaround.

How do I make cake mix bars like the Pioneer Woman?

Ree Drummond-style bars often include chocolate chips, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk for a rich, gooey layer. Try layering condensed milk between two dough layers for a decadent twist.

Can I use chocolate cake mix for these bars?

Yes! Chocolate cake mix makes a fudgy, brownie-like base. Top with red and blue M&Ms or swirl in marshmallow cream for a firework-inspired finish.

How does sweetened condensed milk change the texture?

It adds a sticky, ultra-moist layer to the center — think gooey caramel meets cookie. Use sparingly if you still want structure.

Can these be adapted for Easter or other holidays?

Totally. Just swap the candy colors: pastels for Easter, orange and brown for Halloween, red and green for Christmas. It’s the same base with seasonal flair, like in our Easter cake mix cookie bars twist.

4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars: Easy Red, White & Blue Treat Everyone Loves

Name: 4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 2 large eggs; ½ cup melted unsalted butter; 1 cup red, white & blue M&Ms; ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional); Patriotic sprinkles (optional)

Description

These 4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars are a festive, chewy dessert packed with red, white, and blue candies. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box yellow cake mix

2 large eggs

½ cup melted unsalted butter

1 cup red, white & blue M&Ms

½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Patriotic sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13” pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until a thick dough forms.

3. Fold in M&Ms and white chocolate chips.

4. Press dough into prepared pan evenly.

5. Sprinkle with extra M&Ms or sprinkles on top.

6. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden on edges and set in the center.

7. Cool completely, slice into bars, and serve.

Notes

Try using chocolate or Funfetti cake mix for fun twists.

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months, wrapped well.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg