Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Mix the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract (if using) in a large bowl. Stir until a thick dough forms. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough now.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. Don’t worry if the cookies still look a little soft in the middle; they will firm up as they cool.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.