Grinch Crinkle Cookies Festive and Fun Holiday Treat

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Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Grinch Crinkle Cookies! These festive treats are not just fun to make, but they also add a splash of color to your holiday spread. With a soft, chewy center and a crunchy exterior, they’re perfect for sharing. I’ll guide you through simple steps and tips to achieve festive flair. Let’s dive into the joy of baking these cheerful cookies together!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Festive Flavor: The combination of cocoa and peppermint gives these cookies a delightful holiday taste that captures the spirit of Christmas.
  2. Fun Presentation: The vibrant green color and sparkling sprinkles make these cookies a visually appealing treat for any holiday gathering.
  3. Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels, making it a great choice for holiday baking parties.
  4. Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a festive box or jar, and they make a charming homemade gift for friends and family.

Ingredients

To make Grinch Crinkle Cookies, you need the following ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional for a minty twist)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • Green sprinkles for decoration

Each ingredient plays a key role in the cookie’s texture and flavor. The flour gives structure, while cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolatey taste. Baking powder and baking soda help the cookies rise and create a soft texture. Salt enhances the flavors, rounding out the sweetness from both sugars.

Using both granulated and brown sugars adds depth. Granulated sugar gives crispness, while brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness. Vegetable oil keeps the cookies soft, and eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds warmth, and peppermint extract gives a festive hint, if you choose to use it.

Finally, powdered sugar coats the cookies before baking, giving them that signature crinkle look. Green sprinkles add a fun, Grinchy touch that makes these cookies perfect for the holidays.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

Making Grinch Crinkle Cookies is simple. This festive treat will light up your holiday. We will break this down into easy steps.

Detailed Instructions

  • Preheating the oven and preparing baking sheet

First, preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This is key for even baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps your cookies not stick.

  • Whisking dry ingredients and mixing wet ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well.

In a separate large bowl, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. This creates a smooth mix. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, and mix until smooth. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract if you like mint.

  • Combining and chilling the dough

Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until the dough is smooth. If it feels sticky, that’s okay! This dough benefits from a chill. Place it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle.

  • Rolling and baking the cookies

After chilling, scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until coated. Place the balls on the baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Gently press down each ball to flatten slightly. Then, sprinkle with green sprinkles for fun.

Bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for set edges and crinkled tops. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Grinch Crinkle Cookies!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crinkles

To get those lovely crinkles, watch the baking time closely. Bake them for just 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center might still seem soft. They will firm up as they cool. For even better crinkles, chill the dough first. This step helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.

Variations for Flavor Enhancements

Using additional extracts

If you want to switch things up, try adding different extracts. Almond or hazelnut extracts can add depth. Just a teaspoon will do!

Adding chocolate chips or nuts

You can mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Dark chocolate chips pair well with the cocoa. Chopped nuts give a nice crunch. Add up to half a cup of either to the dough.

Presentation Tips

Holiday-themed serving suggestions

Make your cookies stand out with festive plates. A holiday-themed platter will catch the eye. You can stack them on a cake stand for a fun display.

Dusting with powdered sugar

For a snowy look, dust some cookies with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch and makes them more festive. Just use a fine sieve to sprinkle the sugar evenly.

Pro Tips

  1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
  2. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. This will enhance the chocolate taste of your cookies.
  3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
  4. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or white chocolate chunks to the dough for extra texture and flavor!

Variations

Alternative Flavor Combinations

You can change up the flavor of Grinch Crinkle Cookies easily. One fun way is to add peppermint extract. This gives the cookies a fresh, minty taste. Just use 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla. It makes these cookies feel festive and special!

You can also play with colors. Instead of just green, add food coloring to the dough. A few drops of red or blue will create a colorful twist. This makes your cookies even more fun for holiday parties!

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free cookies, you can use gluten-free flour. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This will keep the cookies soft and chewy while being safe for those with gluten allergies.

For egg-free options, you can use applesauce or mashed banana. About 1/4 cup of applesauce replaces one egg. This keeps the cookies moist and tasty! Another option is to use flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to the dough.

Storage Info

How to Store Cookies

To keep your Grinch Crinkle Cookies fresh, follow these tips:

  • Short-term storage: Place the cookies in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers. This keeps them soft and moist. Store at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Long-term freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay fresh for up to three months.

Shelf Life

At room temperature, Grinch Crinkle Cookies stay fresh for about one week. If you freeze them, they keep their taste and texture for three months. Always check for any signs of freezer burn before eating. Enjoy your cookies fresh, soft, and delicious!

FAQs

Common Questions about Grinch Crinkle Cookies

How do I prevent cookies from being too sticky?

To avoid sticky dough, chill it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle. If the dough is still sticky, add a little extra flour.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge. Wrap it well. It stays fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.

What is the best way to freeze baked cookies?

To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

This blog post covered the recipe for Grinch Crinkle Cookies, from ingredients to storage. You learned how to mix, chill, and bake these festive treats. Tips for flavor and presentation make your cookies even better. Remember, you can use different flavors and colors to match your style. Storing them correctly helps keep them fresh. Enjoy the fun of baking these cookies and making them your own! You’ll impress family and friends this holiday seaso

To make Grinch Crinkle Cookies, you need the following ingredients: - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup vegetable oil - 2 large eggs - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional for a minty twist) - 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling) - Green sprinkles for decoration Each ingredient plays a key role in the cookie's texture and flavor. The flour gives structure, while cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolatey taste. Baking powder and baking soda help the cookies rise and create a soft texture. Salt enhances the flavors, rounding out the sweetness from both sugars. Using both granulated and brown sugars adds depth. Granulated sugar gives crispness, while brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness. Vegetable oil keeps the cookies soft, and eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds warmth, and peppermint extract gives a festive hint, if you choose to use it. Finally, powdered sugar coats the cookies before baking, giving them that signature crinkle look. Green sprinkles add a fun, Grinchy touch that makes these cookies perfect for the holidays. {{ingredient_image_1}} Making Grinch Crinkle Cookies is simple. This festive treat will light up your holiday. We will break this down into easy steps. - Preheating the oven and preparing baking sheet First, preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This is key for even baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps your cookies not stick. - Whisking dry ingredients and mixing wet ingredients In a bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. In a separate large bowl, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. This creates a smooth mix. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, and mix until smooth. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract if you like mint. - Combining and chilling the dough Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until the dough is smooth. If it feels sticky, that’s okay! This dough benefits from a chill. Place it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle. - Rolling and baking the cookies After chilling, scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until coated. Place the balls on the baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Gently press down each ball to flatten slightly. Then, sprinkle with green sprinkles for fun. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for set edges and crinkled tops. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Grinch Crinkle Cookies! To get those lovely crinkles, watch the baking time closely. Bake them for just 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center might still seem soft. They will firm up as they cool. For even better crinkles, chill the dough first. This step helps the cookies keep their shape while baking. If you want to switch things up, try adding different extracts. Almond or hazelnut extracts can add depth. Just a teaspoon will do! You can mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Dark chocolate chips pair well with the cocoa. Chopped nuts give a nice crunch. Add up to half a cup of either to the dough. Make your cookies stand out with festive plates. A holiday-themed platter will catch the eye. You can stack them on a cake stand for a fun display. For a snowy look, dust some cookies with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch and makes them more festive. Just use a fine sieve to sprinkle the sugar evenly. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. This will enhance the chocolate taste of your cookies. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or white chocolate chunks to the dough for extra texture and flavor! {{image_2}} You can change up the flavor of Grinch Crinkle Cookies easily. One fun way is to add peppermint extract. This gives the cookies a fresh, minty taste. Just use 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla. It makes these cookies feel festive and special! You can also play with colors. Instead of just green, add food coloring to the dough. A few drops of red or blue will create a colorful twist. This makes your cookies even more fun for holiday parties! If you need gluten-free cookies, you can use gluten-free flour. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This will keep the cookies soft and chewy while being safe for those with gluten allergies. For egg-free options, you can use applesauce or mashed banana. About 1/4 cup of applesauce replaces one egg. This keeps the cookies moist and tasty! Another option is to use flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to the dough. To keep your Grinch Crinkle Cookies fresh, follow these tips: - Short-term storage: Place the cookies in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers. This keeps them soft and moist. Store at room temperature for up to one week. - Long-term freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay fresh for up to three months. At room temperature, Grinch Crinkle Cookies stay fresh for about one week. If you freeze them, they keep their taste and texture for three months. Always check for any signs of freezer burn before eating. Enjoy your cookies fresh, soft, and delicious! How do I prevent cookies from being too sticky? To avoid sticky dough, chill it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle. If the dough is still sticky, add a little extra flour. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge. Wrap it well. It stays fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking. What is the best way to freeze baked cookies? To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. This blog post covered the recipe for Grinch Crinkle Cookies, from ingredients to storage. You learned how to mix, chill, and bake these festive treats. Tips for flavor and presentation make your cookies even better. Remember, you can use different flavors and colors to match your style. Storing them correctly helps keep them fresh. Enjoy the fun of baking these cookies and making them your own! You’ll impress family and friends this holiday season.

Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Festive green cookies with a crinkly texture, perfect for the holiday season.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
Β Β 

  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups brown sugar, packed
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
  • 0.5 cups powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • 1 cup green sprinkles for decoration

Instructions
Β 

  • Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended.
  • Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture, ensuring that each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract (if using).
  • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined and the dough is smooth. It's okay if it’s a little sticky.
  • Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly (optional, but helps with handling).
  • Once chilled, scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
  • Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  • Gently press down each ball to flatten slightly, then sprinkle with green sprinkles for extra 'Grinch' flair.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Serve these festive cookies in a fun holiday-themed platter, and display some on a cake stand for added height. You may also dust a few with extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect!
Keyword cookies, dessert, festive, holiday

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