Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is a must as the cookies are sticky!

Add the cake mix to a large bowl. Whisk the egg, water, and extract together, then stir into the cake mix until smooth. Dough will be loose.

Chill for 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (F).

Using a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them at least 2 to 3 inches apart since these cookies spread.

Generously sprinkle the tops of the unbaked cookies with sparkling sugar (or your choice of sanding sugar).

Bake for 9 to 10 minutes, until edges are a light golden color. Remove from oven and cool cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Repeat with remaining cookie dough.

Store leftovers in an airtight container with parchment or wax paper between the layers.