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4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars – Festive, Easy, and Only 4 Ingredients!

Need a no-stress dessert that looks like a party and tastes like a dream? These 4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars are exactly what you’re looking for! Made with just four pantry-friendly ingredients, they deliver chewy, cookie-like texture and vibrant patriotic colors—without the fuss. 🍪🇺🇸 Whether you’re short on time or baking with kids, these bars are a go-to for festive fun. Customize with sprinkles, candy, or white chocolate chips—and serve up something unforgettable.
Prep Time 5 minutes
bake time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Ingredients
  

  • Makes 12–16 bars
  • 1 box 15.25 oz white or yellow cake mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup red white, and blue sprinkles (jimmies or confetti style)

Method
 

Step 1: Prep
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
  1. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, and oil.
  2. Mix until a thick dough forms.
  3. Fold in the red, white, and blue sprinkles.
Step 3: Bake
  1. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
  2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until edges are golden and center is just set.
  3. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Step 4: Serve
  1. Cut into squares or rectangles.
  2. Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate or add more sprinkles on top.

Notes

🥄 Variations
Chocolate Chip Version: Add white or milk chocolate chips
Frosted Fun: Top with vanilla frosting and extra sprinkles
Candy Mix-In: Fold in M&M’s or crushed patriotic candy
Lemon Twist: Use lemon cake mix for a bright flavor
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cake mix and adjust liquid if needed
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Room Temp: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
Fridge: Keeps well for 6–7 days
Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months
Make-Ahead: Bake and slice a day in advance for easy serving
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chocolate cake mix?
Yes! It’ll change the flavor but still work beautifully.
Are these soft or crispy?
Soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges.
Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes—melted butter can be swapped 1:1 for richer flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or two pans.
What if I don’t have sprinkles?
Try chopped red/blue candy or colored sugar.
Do I need a mixer?
Nope! Just stir by hand—super simple.
Can kids help make these?
Totally—perfect for mixing and pressing into the pan.
Can I frost them?
Yes! Cream cheese or vanilla frosting works great.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes—adjust bake time if using an 8×8 pan for thicker bars.
Do they travel well?
Definitely! Great for BBQs, picnics, and road trips.
🏁 Conclusion
These 4th of July Cake-Mix Cookie Bars are proof that sometimes the easiest recipes are the biggest hits. With festive sprinkles, a chewy texture, and just four ingredients, they’ll be the star of any Independence Day spread. 🎉🍪
Whip them up in minutes, pack them for the party, and watch everyone reach for seconds!