Add a plate of these fun-colored 4th of July Fireworks Cookies to your holiday plans. With their vibrant sprinkles and red, white, and blue M&Ms, these soft and puffy Fourth of July cookies will surely be a hit at any gathering. Their playful appearance makes them perfect for celebrations, while their delightful taste is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies in no time.
• Festive Appearance: The colorful sprinkles and M&Ms make these cookies an eye-catching treat for your 4th of July festivities.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Thanks to the cream cheese and cake mix, these cookies have a delightful softness that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: While they’re perfect for the 4th of July, these cookies can be enjoyed at birthday parties, picnics, or any special occasion.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will enjoy helping to make these cookies with their vibrant colors and fun shapes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cookie-making process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform dough balls, which helps the cookies bake evenly.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides the right surface for baking your cookies without warping.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 1 – 15.25 ounce vanilla cake mix
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

For Mix-ins

• 2 cups Oreo cookie chunks (14 chocolate cream-filled)
• 3/4 cup red, white, & blue M&Ms, divided
• 1/2 cup red, white, & blue sprinkles, divided

this recipe

How to Make 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Mix together the dry cake mix, softened butter, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract until you form a soft dough.

Step 2: Add Mix-ins

Gently stir in the Oreo chunks along with 1/2 cup of M&Ms and 1/4 cup of sprinkles.

Step 3: Chill Dough

Refrigerate the dough for about 60 minutes. This will help the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to create approximately 24 even dough balls. Press remaining M&Ms on top of each ball. Feel free to add extra sprinkles on top if desired!

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Place the dough balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes. After baking, let the cookies cool on the pan for about two minutes before transferring them to parchment paper on the counter.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool completely so they set up nicely. Store them in a tightly sealed container for freshness.

Enjoy your delicious 4th of July Fireworks Cookies, perfect for celebrating Independence Day!

How to Serve 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

These colorful 4th of July Fireworks Cookies are perfect for festive gatherings. Here are some fun ways to serve them to make your holiday even more special.

Individual Cookie Bags

• Create small bags filled with cookies for each guest. This is a great way to let everyone take home a sweet treat.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. You can add some fresh fruit or themed decorations to enhance the presentation.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or a festive flavor like blueberry for an extra treat!

Dessert Table

• Incorporate these cookies into a larger dessert table. Pair them with other red, white, and blue treats for a cohesive look.

Picnic Treats

• Pack these cookies in a picnic basket for outdoor celebrations. They are easy to transport and will be a hit at any picnic.

How to Perfect 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

To ensure your 4th of July Fireworks Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they stay puffy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh butter and eggs will give your cookies the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center when done.
• Add Extra Sprinkles: For an even more festive look, sprinkle additional red, white, and blue sprinkles on top before baking.
• Storage Matters: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.

Best Side Dishes for 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your 4th of July Fireworks Cookies can enhance your celebration. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn is a classic summer favorite that complements any dessert.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is perfect alongside sweets, providing a savory balance to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad Skewers: These colorful skewers made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add freshness to your spread.
4. Watermelon Salad: Refreshing watermelon salad with feta cheese makes for a light and delicious side that’s great for summer heat.
5. BBQ Chicken Wings: Spicy or sweet BBQ wings offer a delightful contrast to the sweetness of fireworks cookies.
6. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds natural sweetness and complements the festive theme perfectly.
7. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides texture and flavor that pairs well with the richness of desserts.
8. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans bring heartiness to your meal while balancing out sweet treats like cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 4th of July Fireworks Cookies can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor.
• Skipping the refrigeration step: Chilling the dough for 60 minutes is crucial. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don’t rush this step!
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be soft in the center when you take them out. If you overbake, they’ll become hard and dry.
• Using cold butter or cream cheese: Make sure both are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth dough that incorporates well with other ingredients.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating 4th of July Fireworks Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these 4th of July Fireworks Cookies special?

These cookies are festive with red, white, and blue M&Ms and sprinkles, making them perfect for celebrations. Their soft texture combined with chocolate chunks adds deliciousness that everyone loves.

Can I customize the toppings on my Fireworks Cookies?

Absolutely! You can replace M&Ms with any candy you prefer or use different colored sprinkles. Feel free to experiment with add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.

How long do 4th of July Fireworks Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy them!

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These colorful cookies are great fun for kids and can be made together as a family activity. Just ensure any potential allergens are considered based on your child’s dietary needs.

Can I use gluten-free cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute regular cake mix with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores, making these cookies accessible to everyone.

Final Thoughts

These vibrant 4th of July Fireworks Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for holiday gatherings. Their soft texture combined with fun toppings allows for plenty of customization options. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue or giving them as gifts, they are sure to impress! Try making your own batch this July Fourth!

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4th of July Fireworks Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Add a plate of colorful 4th of July Fireworks Cookies to your holiday celebrations. These delightful treats, adorned with vibrant sprinkles and red, white, and blue M&Ms, are soft, chewy, and sure to impress guests at any gathering. Perfect for Independence Day festivities or any special occasion, these cookies combine playful aesthetics with delicious flavor. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue or as part of a festive dessert table, they’re a must-have addition to your summer celebrations!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups Oreo cookie chunks
• 3/4 cup red, white, & blue M&Ms (divided)
• 1/2 cup red, white, & blue sprinkles (divided)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, softened butter, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.
3. Gently fold in Oreo chunks along with half the M&Ms and sprinkles.
4. Refrigerate the dough for about 60 minutes.
5. Scoop out dough balls (about 2 tablespoons each) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and top with remaining M&Ms and sprinkles.
6. Bake for approximately 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden but center remains soft.
7. Cool on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider using different flavored cake mixes or substituting M&Ms with your favorite candies. Chill the dough to achieve puffy cookies that hold their shape during baking.