Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a holiday favorite, known for their soft, fudgy texture and beautiful cracked powdered sugar coating. These cookies not only look festive but also melt in your mouth with rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat with a cup of hot cocoa, they are a must-have for the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, fudgy texture with a delightful powdered sugar coating
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holiday parties and cookie exchanges
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free holiday baking
• A fun and festive addition to your Christmas dessert table

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
8. Generously coat each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring full coverage.
9. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

• Peppermint Crinkle Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
• Spiced Crinkle Cookies: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm holiday flavor.
• White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Substitute cocoa powder with extra flour and add white chocolate chips.
• Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies: Add red food coloring and use a bit less cocoa powder for a vibrant holiday look.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week if you prefer a firmer texture.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze unbaked cookie dough balls. When ready to bake, coat in powdered sugar and bake as directed.

FAQs

How do I get the perfect crinkle effect?

Chilling the dough is key to ensuring the cookies crack properly when baked. Rolling them generously in powdered sugar also enhances the crinkle effect.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Butter will make them a bit richer and softer.

Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?

If the dough wasn’t chilled properly or the oven was too hot, the crinkle effect may not appear as desired. Be sure to follow chilling and baking instructions closely.

Can I use different types of cocoa powder?

Yes, but Dutch-processed cocoa powder may alter the acidity and affect the texture. Stick with unsweetened natural cocoa powder for best results.

How can I make these cookies extra chocolatey?

Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for an extra fudgy bite.

Can I roll the cookies in something other than powdered sugar?

Yes, try rolling them in granulated sugar first for a slight crunch before coating in powdered sugar.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

You can experiment with sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or a baking-friendly sugar substitute, but it may slightly change the texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

An airtight container at room temperature works best, but for longer storage, freeze them.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as an egg replacement.

Conclusion

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a holiday classic that never disappoints. Their festive look, soft texture, and rich chocolate flavor make them a staple for holiday baking. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to loved ones, or enjoying them with a cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer. Try different variations and enjoy the magic of homemade Christmas cookies!

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