As the warm scent of freshly baked goods wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but envision the festive gatherings ahead—filled with laughter, cheer, and, of course, delightful treats! This is where my Christmas Crinkle Cookies come into play, effortlessly standing out among holiday desserts. With just a simple white cake mix as a base, these vibrant cookies are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but they also add a splash of joyous color to any cookie platter. Soft and chewy, topped with a snowy blanket of powdered sugar, they’re sure to impress guests of all ages. Plus, they are perfect for busy bakers needing a quick yet festive option. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with me? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why are Christmas Crinkle Cookies a must-try?
Easy to Make: Using just a box of cake mix, these cookies come together in a flash, making them perfect for those with a busy holiday schedule.
Vibrant Colors: The festive red and green colors are sure to attract both kids and adults alike, adding a cheerful touch to your dessert table.
Irresistibly Chewy: These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, with a delightful powdery finish that mimics a snowy landscape, just in time for the holidays.
Perfect for Sharing: They’re an excellent option for cookie exchanges or holiday parties, allowing everyone to indulge in a taste of festive joy. Also, check out my Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies for an extra treat!
Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different colors or add sprinkles for a unique touch, making them fun to customize for any holiday celebration.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
Dive into the festive flavors with these easy-to-make Christmas Crinkle Cookies!
For the Cookie Base
• White Cake Mix – Offers a light and fluffy texture that’s perfect for baking cookies.
• Eggs – Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together; can substitute with flax egg for a vegan-friendly option.
• Vanilla Extract – Intensifies the flavor of the cookies; use pure extract to elevate the taste.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds richness and moisture; can be swapped for melted butter or coconut oil for a different touch.
For the Color
• Red Food Coloring Gel – Imparts vibrant color without affecting moisture; gel form is preferred for concentrated hues.
• Green Food Coloring Gel – Adds the holiday spirit; ensure even mixing for a beautiful contrast in colors.
For the Coating
• Powdered Sugar – Gives the cookies that snowy appearance; reserve extra for rolling before baking to enhance presentation.
With just these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies that will be the highlight of your holiday dessert platter!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking. This preparation will ensure you’re ready to bake your delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies as soon as the dough is ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Next, add the box of white cake mix to the wet ingredients. Using a spatula or hand mixer, mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated, and you see a smooth, thick dough form.
Step 3: Divide and Color the Dough
Carefully divide the cookie dough into two equal portions, transferring one portion to a separate bowl. Add a few drops of red food coloring gel to one bowl and green food coloring gel to the other. Mix each portion thoroughly until the colors are vibrant and evenly distributed, creating a festive look for your Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover both bowls of colored dough with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator. Let the dough chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step enhances the texture and makes it easier to handle the dough, ensuring that your cookies bake to perfection.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge. Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the red and green dough, rolling them into balls using your hands. Next, roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar to achieve a snowy coating; this will give your Christmas Crinkle Cookies that signature crinkled look when baked.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart about two inches. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, allowing the festive colors to shine.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the Christmas Crinkle Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them firm up without losing their delicious chewy texture. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Expert Tips for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape while baking, resulting in a soft, chewy texture that everyone loves.
- Color Carefully: Use food coloring gels for vibrant hues. Liquid color can alter the dough’s consistency, leading to less than perfect cookies.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling in powdered sugar, be generous! This added layer creates the signature snowy look that makes these Christmas Crinkle Cookies so festive.
- Oven Temperature: Keep an eye on your cookies! Different ovens can vary, so check for doneness around the stated time to avoid overbaking.
- Storage Solution: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week, ensuring your festive treats last through the holiday season.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies: Easy Variations
Ready to give your Christmas Crinkle Cookies a delightful twist? Let’s unleash your creativity in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil and leave out eggs, using a flax egg mix instead for a vegan-friendly version.
- Nutty Flavor: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough before chilling for a crunchy texture boost. These nuts bring a lovely warmth that complements the sweet base.
- Peppermint Twist: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the dough and top with crushed candy canes after baking for a refreshing holiday flavor. It adds a beautiful finish, perfect for the festive season!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it on top of the cooled cookies for an indulgent, chocolatey finish. The richness of the chocolate enhances each bite magnificently.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Mix in a handful of holiday-themed sprinkles to the dough for added flair and fun! Your vibrant cookies will be even more irresistible.
- Cocoa Crinkle: Swap in one-third cup of cocoa powder for part of the white cake mix to give a delicious chocolatey flair while maintaining the crinkly appearance. Chocolate and powdered sugar make for a dreamy combination!
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of powdered sugar, roll the dough balls in a mix of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a cozy touch, reminiscent of warm holiday spices.
- Try a New Recipe: If you’re feeling adventurous, check out my Panko Cookies Chewy or Oreo Cheesecake Cookies for more delicious options to satisfy your sweet tooth during the holidays!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your tastes, and let your Christmas Crinkle Cookies shine in delightful new ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and coloring the dough. After forming the dough balls, simply roll them in powdered sugar, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. This keeps the dough fresh and maintains its chewy texture until you are ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy your festive treats, just take them out of the fridge and bake them straight from cold; they’ll turn out just as delicious and vibrant as if you made them the same day! This meal prep approach not only simplifies your cookie-making process but also ensures you have delightful cookies on hand whenever the holiday spirit strikes!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Airtight Container: Store cooled Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a chilled treat, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to reach room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze your cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste!
What to Serve with Christmas Crinkle Cookies
The joy of baking Christmas Crinkle Cookies is just the beginning; let’s create a full festive feast together!
- Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich chocolate cocoa perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their festive charm.
- Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink adds a delightful holiday essence, making each bite of cookie feel even more special.
Pairing cookies with beverages creates a cozy experience. Serve the cookies alongside your favorite drinks for a truly festive gathering!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the chewy crinkles, making for a classic dessert combo.
Desserts are always better with a scoop of something cold. Imagine those colorful cookies nestled next to a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and brightens up the holiday dessert table.
A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies, ensuring everyone has a delightful variety during dessert.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers an interesting savory contrast, making your spread even more enticing for guests.
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Holiday Punch: A fruity, sparkling punch is a festive beverage that perfectly pairs with the cookies, ensuring your gathering feels special.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right food coloring for my Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! For the most vibrant colors, I recommend using gel food coloring rather than liquid. Gel colors are more concentrated, allowing you to achieve those festive red and green shades without adding extra moisture to the dough. Just a few drops should do the trick, ensuring a bright and appealing look for your cookies!
How should I store my Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewiness, store your cooled Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like them to stay fresh longer, you can place them in the refrigerator, where they will last for about 2 weeks. Just remember to let them reach room temperature before enjoying them again!
Can I freeze my Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Very! Freezing these cookies is an excellent way to save some festive flavor for later. First, lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. For the best experience, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and if you want that fresh-baked vibe, warm them in the microwave for just a few seconds before serving!
Why did my cookies come out flat?
If your Christmas Crinkle Cookies spread too much, it might be due to not chilling the dough long enough. Chilling helps maintain their shape and results in that perfectly chewy texture. If you’re in a hurry, try chilling for at least 30 minutes, but if they still flatten out, next time aim to chill for a bit longer. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh to help provide adequate lift.
Can I make a vegan version of the Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! To make these cookies vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs. To create a flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes gelatinous, then add it to your cookie dough just as you would with the regular egg. This ensures your cookies will come out just as delicious and festive!
Festive Christmas Crinkle Cookies That Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix in the box of white cake mix until smooth.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Add red food coloring to one and green to the other, mixing until vibrant.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Scoop out portions of red and green dough, roll into balls, and coat in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are set.
- Cool on the sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.