There’s something truly magical about baking Christmas crinkle cookies that fills my heart with joy and my kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of chocolate. These cookies have that perfect combination of a soft, chewy center and a delicate, powdered sugar coating that makes them an absolute delight. I remember spending afternoons with my grandma, rolling the dough into balls and eagerly waiting for them to puff up in the oven, their crackly tops revealing the sweet goodness inside. It’s become a cherished tradition in my family, and each batch brings back those wonderful memories. Trust me, once you take a bite of these festive treats, you’ll understand why they’re a holiday must-have!
Ingredients for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making these delightful Christmas crinkle cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Make sure to measure everything accurately—trust me, it makes a difference! And don’t hesitate to use high-quality cocoa powder; it really elevates the chocolate flavor. Let’s get ready to bake some holiday magic!
How to Prepare Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing these scrumptious Christmas crinkle cookies! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you through every step. Just make sure to keep an eye on the clock when it comes to chilling and baking times—trust me, this part is key for getting that perfect texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your cookies are ready to go in!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Mix them together until well combined and it’s nice and smooth.
- Next, crack in 2 large eggs and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. The mixture should look creamy and inviting!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This is your dry mix, and it’s super important to get those dry ingredients evenly distributed.
- Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. You don’t want to overmix—just bring it together until there are no dry spots. The dough should be a bit sticky but manageable.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and makes rolling the dough easier.
- Once chilled, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls—about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry about being perfect; each cookie will have its own character!
- Roll each ball in 1 cup of powdered sugar until they’re generously coated. This will give them that beautiful crinkle effect when they bake.
- Place the rolled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them a couple of inches apart—trust me, they’ll spread a little.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You want them to be just set but still soft in the center. Oops! Don’t overbake, or you’ll lose that chewy goodness!
- Finally, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible!
And there you have it! Your very own batch of Christmas crinkle cookies ready to be enjoyed. I can’t wait for you to taste them and feel that holiday spirit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to prepare—perfect for bakers of any skill level!
- The delightful combination of soft, chewy centers with a sugary crust is simply irresistible.
- Festive and fun, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or as gifts for friends and family.
- Made with simple ingredients, so you probably have everything you need right in your pantry!
- They store well, so you can enjoy these treats for days after baking.
- The stunning crinkle appearance makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday dessert table.
- Customizable! Add chocolate chips or swap in different flavored extracts for a unique twist.
- Each bite brings back cozy memories of holiday baking traditions—just like mine with grandma!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas crinkle cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of advice can make a huge difference!
- Dough Consistency: When mixing your dough, aim for a slightly sticky but manageable texture. If it feels too dry, you can add a splash more oil or a bit of milk to help it come together.
- Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! It not only makes the dough easier to handle but also helps the flavors develop and gives those cookies that lovely crinkle effect when baked.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Every oven is a little different, so start checking them around the 10-minute mark. You want them set at the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy bite!
- Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Toss in some chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor. I love using white chocolate chips for a festive touch!
- Coating Tips: For an even coating of powdered sugar, roll the cookies in the sugar right after they come out of the oven while they’re still warm. This helps the sugar stick better and gives a lovely snowy appearance.
- Batch Size: If you’re planning on making a big batch for holiday parties, consider doubling the recipe. These cookies disappear fast, and you’ll want to have plenty to share!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the best Christmas crinkle cookies ever. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying these scrumptious Christmas crinkle cookies, it’s good to keep an eye on the nutritional details, even though I always say a little indulgence is part of the holiday magic! Just a quick note: the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these as general estimates rather than precise numbers.
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
So, go ahead and treat yourself to a cookie (or two)! The holiday season is all about joy and togetherness, and what better way to celebrate than with these delightful treats? Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked up a delightful batch of Christmas crinkle cookies, let’s talk about how to make your cookie spread even more festive! These cookies are perfect on their own, but pairing them with the right beverages or complementary desserts can take your holiday gathering to the next level.
- Hot Cocoa: Serve your cookies alongside a steaming cup of rich hot cocoa. You can even top the cocoa with whipped cream and sprinkle some crushed peppermint for that extra holiday flair!
- Eggnog: A classic holiday drink, eggnog pairs beautifully with the chocolatey goodness of crinkle cookies. The creamy texture and warm spices will make your taste buds dance!
- Milk: You can’t go wrong with a tall glass of cold milk! It’s the perfect balance to the sweetness of the cookies and makes for a nostalgic treat.
- Fruit Platter: Add a refreshing fruit platter with seasonal favorites like oranges, pomegranates, and berries. The tartness of the fruit will provide a lovely contrast to the rich cookies.
- Cheesecake Bites: For a little variety, consider serving some cheesecake bites or mini cheesecakes. The creamy texture complements the chewy crinkle cookies wonderfully!
- Holiday Spice Cake: A slice of spiced cake with warm flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg can create a cozy dessert table that everyone will love.
With these delightful pairings, your Christmas crinkle cookies will shine even brighter during the holiday festivities! Get ready for a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with laughter and delicious treats. Enjoy every moment!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you have a delicious batch of Christmas crinkle cookies, let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and delightful for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to maintaining their soft, chewy texture and that lovely powdered sugar coating.
First off, you’ll want to let your cookies cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent any moisture from building up, which can make them lose their perfect consistency. Once they’re cool, grab an airtight container—this is crucial! It’ll keep them from drying out and protect them from any curious kitchen critters.
Layer the cookies in the container with parchment paper between them to avoid sticking. Trust me, no one wants to deal with a stuck-together cookie disaster! If you’re making a big batch, you can also freeze some for later enjoyment. Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for about 2 months this way.
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a bit, or pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat that tastes fresh out of the oven. And there you have it! With these simple storage tips, your Christmas crinkle cookies will stay delicious and ready to share (or savor all to yourself) for days to come. Happy snacking!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the best Christmas crinkle cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I’ve come across, along with my answers to help you bake with confidence.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Absolutely! You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or even applesauce for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that each substitute might slightly change the flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
No cocoa powder? No problem! You can make vanilla crinkle cookies instead by omitting the cocoa and adding a bit more flour—just keep the recipe ratios balanced. They’ll still be delicious!
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them—just remember to wrap them tightly!
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Definitely! While granulated sugar is the go-to, you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramel-like flavor. Just keep in mind it might change the texture slightly, making them a bit chewier.
Are there any variations I can try?
Oh, for sure! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits for a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try different extracts like almond or peppermint to give them a unique flavor profile!
What’s the best way to achieve that crinkle effect?
The secret is in the chilling! Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Also, rolling the cookies in powdered sugar right before baking helps create that beautiful crackled top!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend checking for a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
You’ll want to look for set edges and a slightly soft center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look a little underbaked when you take them out. Trust me, that’s the key to keeping them chewy!
I hope these FAQs help clear up any questions you might have! Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy these delicious Christmas crinkle cookies with family and friends!
Print
Christmas Crinkle Cookies: 7 Secrets for Holiday Joy
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Christmas crinkle cookies are soft and chewy with a delightful powdered sugar coating.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix sugar and oil until combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Form the dough into balls and roll them in powdered sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let them cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Use different flavored extracts for variety.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: christmas crinkle cookies
