There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially during the holidays. These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are my go-to recipe for bringing that festive spirit right into my kitchen. With their easy prep using just a white cake mix, they’re not only quick to whip up but also ever so delightful in their vibrant red and green hues—perfect for holiday gatherings. Each cookie boasts a soft, chewy center enveloped in a snowy powdered-sugar coating that cracks just right, making them eye-catching treats for any dessert table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to shred some flour away from your busy schedule, these cookies are bound to become a favorite. Ready to sprinkle a little cheer into your baking routine?
Why Choose Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and a simple process, even novice bakers can create these festive delights in no time.
Vibrant Colors: The striking red and green hues instantly brighten up any holiday gathering, making them perfect for cookie platters or gift exchanges.
Endless Variations: Customize this recipe by experimenting with different food coloring or adding festive sprinkles for a unique twist, much like my Raspberry Swirl Cookies!
Soft & Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful contrast of a soft, chewy interior wrapped in a sugary, crispy exterior that will have everyone reaching for more.
Time-Saving Treats: Quick to prepare, these cookies are ideal for last-minute baking needs—great for when holiday guests come knocking or family traditions call!
Crowd Pleaser: These cookies are not just visually appealing; their deliciousness makes them a favorite among family and friends, just like the ever-popular Deviled Egg Christmas Trees.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- White Cake Mix – Provides the base for these easy Christmas cookies. Ensure it’s a 13.25-ounce box for best results.
- Eggs – Adds moisture and aids in binding the ingredients. You can substitute eggs with applesauce for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- Vegetable Oil – Contributes to the moisture and softness of the cookies. Can be swapped with melted coconut oil or butter.
For Coloring
- Wilton Red Food Coloring Gel – Adds festive color to the cookie dough. Gel is preferred over liquid for texture purposes.
- Wilton Green Food Coloring Gel – Similar to the red gel, this adds color to the second batch of dough.
For Coating
- Powdered Sugar – Used for rolling the dough balls, giving the cookies their classic snowy appearance.
These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and create a lovely crisp bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract with the white cake mix. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until the ingredients are fully blended and you have a smooth, thick consistency. This dough will serve as the base of your delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
Step 3: Divide the Dough
Once your dough is mixed, divide it into two equal parts, placing each half in a separate bowl. This will allow you to create two vibrant colors for your cookies. Keep the bowls nearby as you prepare to add your festive colors.
Step 4: Add Food Coloring
Take the red food coloring gel and add it to one bowl of dough, mixing it thoroughly until the color is uniform and vibrant. Repeat this process with the green food coloring gel in the second bowl. You’re going for a bright, cheerful hue that will make these Christmas Crinkle Cookies stand out!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
To make handling easier, cover both bowls of colored dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for improving the texture of your dough and enhances the beautiful cracks that will appear during baking.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Once shaped, roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, coating them well to achieve that classic snowy appearance, crucial for your festive Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re lightly golden and have a lovely crinkled surface.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a couple of minutes. They’ll be too soft to move right away. Once slightly set, transfer your beautiful Christmas Crinkle Cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy the festive essence!
Expert Tips for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the colored dough for 30 minutes helps with handling and enhances the crinkled surface once baked.
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Use Gel Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring over liquid; it deepens the color without altering the consistency of the Christmas Crinkle Cookies dough.
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Hand Mixing Advantage: Mixing the color gels by hand can help achieve more even distribution than using a mixer, ensuring vibrant cookies.
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Watch the Baking Time: Check your cookies at the minimum baking time. They should be soft but set to avoid any overbaking mishaps.
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Coat Generously: Rolling your dough balls in powdered sugar isn’t just decorative; it’s essential for getting that signature snowy appearance everyone loves!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply mix the ingredients as directed, divide, color it, and then cover the bowls tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and shape it into balls rolled in powdered sugar, then bake according to the recipe instructions. This way, you ensure the cookies remain just as delicious and vibrant, while avoiding the last-minute rush. Just remember to bake them fresh before serving to maintain that soft, chewy texture everyone loves!
What to Serve with Christmas Crinkle Cookies
There’s nothing quite like a delightful array of flavors and textures to enhance your holiday cookie experience.
- Hot Cocoa Bar: A rich hot cocoa topped with creamy marshmallows perfectly complements the sweet, chewy nature of these cookies.
- Gingerbread Men: The spicy warmth of gingerbread adds a festive contrast to the sugary Crinkle Cookies, creating a well-rounded dessert spread.
- Peppermint Ice Cream: The coolness of peppermint ice cream refreshes the palate and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruit can offer a light contrast to the indulgence of cookies, balancing out the sweetness in a delightful way.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider envelops your senses with cozy flavors that harmonize wonderfully with the festive taste of Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
- Milk or Nut Milk: A classic pair, chilled milk or nut milk provides a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors and textures of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses introduces a savory touch, creating an exciting flavor profile alongside the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Salty and sweet chocolate-dipped pretzels offer a satisfying crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Holiday Cake Pops: These colorful treats add visual interest and fun to your dessert table, making for a delightful combination with your Crinkle Cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their delightful chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, store cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but ensure they’re covered to avoid drying out. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If you like them warm, reheat the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This freshens up the soft, chewy centers without losing the signature crunch of the sugary exterior.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt these scrumptious cookies to your taste!
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Holiday Colors: Swap red and green food coloring for other seasonal colors like blue and white, perfect for Hanukkah or themed parties. Imagine the joy of a rainbow platter that excites both kids and adults alike!
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Flavor Boost: Add festive extracts like peppermint or almond to bring a delightful twist to the traditional flavor. Just a splash can transport your cookies to a winter wonderland!
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Texture Twist: Incorporate quick oats or finely chopped nuts into the dough for added texture. The result? A delightful crunch in every bite, reminiscent of a favorite family recipe!
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Sprinkled Delights: Use colorful sprinkles or festive jimmies in the dough for an extra pop of fun. These cookies will be not just treats, but stunning decorations for your dessert table—much like holiday Raspberry Linzer Cookies!
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Thumbprint Variation: After shaping the dough, press your thumb into the center of each ball and add a dollop of jam or frosting before baking. These make charming little treats that can stand out at any gathering.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a decadent addition. Pairing classic flavors will surely make them a favorite, just like the Christmas Smoked Salmon you might serve on the side!
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Spiced Cookies: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that dances beautifully with the sweetness of the crinkle cookies.
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Nut-Free: For a nut-free option, simply exclude any nuts or nut-based oils. These cookies will still shine brightly on your festive cookie platter!
With these variations, you’re all set to create a batch of Christmas Crinkle Cookies that reflect your personal style and holiday spirit. Happy baking!
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix should I use for Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
For the best results, use a 13.25-ounce box of white cake mix. The flavor and texture create a perfect base for these delightful cookies. Avoid generic brands, as they may not yield the same soft, chewy result.
How should I store my Christmas Crinkle Cookies after baking?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and maintains that lovely chewy texture. If you live in a humid area, you might prefer to keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, just ensure they’re well wrapped.
Can I freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Make sure to place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
What if my cookies don’t crinkle as expected?
If your Christmas Crinkle Cookies don’t have the signature cracked appearance, it might be due to overmixing the dough or insufficient chilling time. Make sure to chill your colored dough for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls as this will enhance the crinkling effect when baked.
Are Christmas Crinkle Cookies suitable for kids or people with allergies?
These cookies can be adaptable! If you’re making them for kids or those with egg allergies, simply swap out the eggs for applesauce. However, keep in mind that they contain sugar and may not be suitable for those with strict sugar or gluten restrictions. Always check labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
There are endless possibilities! You can opt for different colors of food gel to match various holidays, or add festive sprinkles for a fun twist. Additionally, try flavoring your dough with extracts like peppermint or almond to give your Christmas Crinkle Cookies a unique flair!
Festive Christmas Crinkle Cookies That Bring Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract with the white cake mix. Mix until fully blended.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts and place in separate bowls.
- Add red food coloring gel to one bowl and mix thoroughly. Repeat with green food coloring gel in the second bowl.
- Cover both bowls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes.
- Let cookies cool on the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
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