Desserts

Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Name: Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; Powdered sugar for coating

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The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and of course, delicious treats! Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a festive favorite that melt in your mouth and bring comfort and cheer to any gathering. Their signature cracked surface, sweet powdered sugar coating, and rich chocolate flavor make them irresistible. Baking these cookies is not just about enjoying them; it’s about creating memories with family and friends. Get ready to indulge in some holiday magic with these delightful cookies!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 70mg

Why Make This Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are not just visually appealing with their appealing white powdered sugar coating against a dark chocolate background; they are also simple and fun to make! Ideal for holiday baking sessions with kids or an easy dessert to whip up in no time, these cookies deliver a comforting balance of sweetness and chocolate. They make beautiful gifts when packaged in festive tins or boxes and add a wonderful touch to any holiday cookie platter.

How to Make Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the ideal baking environment for the cookies. A properly heated oven ensures that your cookies will rise perfectly and develop that beautifully cracked surface.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Mix them together until they are well combined and the mixture looks homogeneous. Next, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Cooking

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, and 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Once the dough is ready, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.

Now the fun begins! Roll the chilled dough into small balls and coat each ball in powdered sugar until they are generously covered. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each one for spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.

Step 4: Finishing

After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This is an essential step to ensure that they firm up slightly without breaking apart. Once they cool completely, they are ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Christmas Crinkle Cookies

These scrumptious cookies are perfect as a standalone dessert, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative plate or in pretty gift boxes to share with family and friends during holiday gatherings.

How to Store Christmas Crinkle Cookies

To keep your Christmas Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain their delicious taste and texture. You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months and bake them fresh whenever a cookie craving strikes!

Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Crinkle Cookies

For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Make sure to roll the dough balls generously in powder sugar for that classic crinkle look.
If you prefer a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough.
For added texture, consider folding in some chocolate chips to the dough prior to chilling.

Delicious Variations

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Substitute cocoa powder with white chocolate and adjust the sugar if needed.
Spiced Crinkle Cookies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor.
Nutty Crinkle Cookies: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, chill it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just roll and bake when ready.
What if I don’t have vegetable oil?
You can use melted butter or coconut oil as a substitute, although this may slightly alter the flavor.
Why are my cookies flat?
Ensure your baking powder is fresh to maintain proper leavening. Also, chilling the dough is crucial to avoid spreading.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Consider adding peppermint extract or orange zest for a unique seasonal flavor.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The edges will be set, and the tops will look slightly cracked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Baking Christmas Crinkle Cookies is a delightful way to share joy during the holiday season. With their rich flavor and charming appearance, these cookies are bound to be a hit at your festive gatherings. So gather your ingredients, don your holiday apron, and start baking! Your loved ones will surely appreciate the sweet treats and the warm memories you create together. Happy baking!