There’s something magical about the holidays, and for many, it’s the smell of cookies baking in the oven that truly sets the season apart. Among all the festive treats, chocolate crinkle cookies hold a special place. Their crackled, snow-dusted appearance and rich, fudgy flavor make them a timeless classic. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, gifting them to loved ones, or indulging in a quiet moment at home, these cookies deliver pure joy in every bite.
Why Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Are So Irresistible
Chocolate crinkle cookies are more than just delicious; they’re an experience. With a soft and chewy interior surrounded by a delicate powdered sugar coating, every bite feels like a decadent hug. Their striking appearance—dark chocolate crinkles peeking through a snowy white exterior—adds to their charm, making them a favorite for cookie exchanges and festive spreads.
Ingredients for Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| White sugar | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Large eggs | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Confectioners’ sugar | ½ cup |
These simple pantry staples come together to create a cookie that’s both elegant and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Start by measuring all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss a thing.
2. Mix the Cocoa Base
In a medium bowl, mix the white sugar, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and shiny. This forms the chocolatey foundation of your cookies.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a touch of sweetness and aroma.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet cocoa mixture until well combined.
5. Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This step is essential for firming up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies maintain their signature crinkle shape.
6. Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll the Dough
Scoop or roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball generously in confectioners’ sugar to create the signature crinkle effect.
8. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for spreading.
9. Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. They should be set on the edges but still soft in the center.
10. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy them warm or store them for later—they’re delicious either way!
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip this step. Chilled dough ensures the cookies hold their shape and achieve the perfect crinkle effect.
- Generously Coat in Sugar: A thick coating of confectioners’ sugar enhances the contrast between the dark chocolate and the snowy white exterior.
- Avoid Overbaking: Take the cookies out when they’re slightly soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For a rich, deep chocolate flavor, opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values for one cookie (based on 24 cookies):
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 10g |
These cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for indulging in moderation.
Why Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Chocolate crinkle cookies are versatile and can fit any event or celebration:
- Holiday Parties: Their festive appearance makes them a staple for Christmas or New Year’s gatherings.
- Cookie Exchanges: Their unique look and rich flavor make them stand out on a cookie platter.
- Everyday Treats: Enjoy them as an after-school snack or a sweet pick-me-up with coffee or tea.
Creative Variations to Try
1. Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a holiday-inspired twist.
2. Spicy Mexican Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper and cinnamon for a hint of heat and spice.
3. Double Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Fold in chocolate chips or chunks for an extra dose of decadence.
4. Gluten-Free Crinkle Cookies
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs About Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
1. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough. Roll it into balls, coat in confectioners’ sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking.
4. What’s the secret to the crinkle effect?
The cold dough and generous coating of confectioners’ sugar are key. The dough spreads as it bakes, creating the crinkled appearance.
5. Can I use margarine instead of vegetable oil?
While vegetable oil gives the cookies a soft and chewy texture, you can use melted margarine as a substitute.
6. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute and ensure the confectioners’ sugar is dairy-free.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Cookie
Chocolate crinkle cookies are a timeless treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with a beautiful, crinkled appearance. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of cookies that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Happy baking!
Print
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: A Deliciously Nostalgic Treat
- Total Time: 4 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Rich, fudgy, and coated in powdered sugar, these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a festive and delicious treat. With their signature crinkled appearance and soft, chewy texture, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Measure and assemble all ingredients for a smooth baking process.
- Mix the Cocoa Base: In a medium bowl, mix white sugar, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil until smooth and shiny.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until well incorporated.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step ensures the dough is firm enough to handle and creates the signature crinkle effect.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll and Coat: Scoop or roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball generously in confectioners’ sugar to ensure a snowy exterior.
- Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy warm or store for later!
Notes
- Chilling: Chilled dough ensures the cookies don’t spread too much and achieves the classic crinkle look.
- Coating Generously: A thick layer of confectioners’ sugar enhances the contrast and visual appeal.
- Flavor Variations: Add peppermint extract, a pinch of cayenne, or fold in chocolate chips for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
