Easy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Rich, fudgy, and slightly chewy, these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a holiday classic! Perfectly crackled and coated with powdered sugar, they’re easy to make and deliver the decadent flavor of brownies in cookie form.

Chef’s Tips

• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smoother dough consistency.
• Refrigerate the Dough: Let the dough chill for at least 45 minutes, or ideally overnight, to make it easier to handle.
• Double Sugar Coating: For a bright, crackled appearance, roll the dough in granulated sugar first and then in powdered sugar.
• Avoid Overbaking: Bake just until set to maintain a soft, fudgy center.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookies; provides structure.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cookies their rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups sugar: Sweetens the cookies and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.
• 1/2 cup canola oil: Keeps the cookies moist and adds a tender texture.
• 4 large eggs: Adds structure and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar: For rolling, creating the classic crinkle effect.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and canola oil. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes.

5. Shape the Cookies:
   Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar (optional) and then in powdered sugar, ensuring a generous coating.
6. Bake the Cookies:
   Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–11 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

7. Cool the Cookies:
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage and Freezing

• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies or the prepared dough. If freezing the dough, roll it into balls, freeze them on a tray, and then store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw and roll in powdered sugar before baking.

Variations

• Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
• Festive Flavors: Add a touch of cinnamon or peppermint extract for a holiday twist.
• Coconut Crinkle: Roll in shredded coconut after the powdered sugar for a unique take.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
• Holiday Spread: Include these cookies in your holiday cookie tray alongside orange cinnamon rolls, peanut butter cookie trees, or chocolate chip cupcakes.

FAQs

Why is my powdered sugar disappearing?
Rolling the dough in granulated sugar before powdered sugar helps prevent absorption and maintains the bright, snowy coating.

Can I use melted butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used, but it will slightly alter the texture, making the cookies less soft and fudgy.

How do I make them gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for similar results.

What if my dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough for longer, or lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar when shaping the cookies.

These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a must-try for the holiday season or any time you’re craving a rich, chocolatey dessert. With their soft centers and crisp powdered sugar coating, they’re as visually stunning as they are delicious. Whip up a batch and enjoy the magic of the holidays in every bite!