Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a festive holiday treat that embody the spirit of the season. With their bright red and green hues and crackled powdered sugar coating, these cookies bring a pop of color and cheer to any dessert table. Soft, chewy, and delightfully sweet, they are a holiday favorite that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even as an edible gift for loved ones. The contrast between the vibrant colors and the snowy white sugar makes them stand out, and their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing a batch for a festive celebration, Christmas Crinkle Cookies are sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. You’ll love how quickly they come together and the joy they bring to everyone who tastes them. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a batch of these stunning Christmas cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Vibrant Colors: The bold red and green dough creates cookies that are visually stunning and perfect for the holiday season.
2. Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are irresistibly soft on the inside with a slight crackle on the outside, offering the perfect balance of textures.
3. Festive Appeal: The powdered sugar coating adds a snowy effect, making these cookies ideal for Christmas and winter-themed celebrations.
4. Easy to Customize: You can switch up the colors, flavors, or even add mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles for a personalized touch.
5. Beginner-Friendly: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is great for novice bakers or those short on time.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Bake Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 10g

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Red and green gel food coloring

For the Coating

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients and Color the Dough

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies.
2. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Tint one portion with red gel food coloring and the other with green gel food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the red and green dough portions with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 4: Roll and Coat the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls.
3. Roll each ball in granulated sugar first, then generously coat in powdered sugar. This double coating enhances the crackled effect during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Background

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies, keeping them soft yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cookies, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ soft, chewy texture.

Food Coloring: Gel food coloring is recommended for its vibrant hues and minimal impact on the dough’s consistency.

Powdered Sugar: The key to achieving the iconic crackled appearance, powdered sugar melts and creates the “snowy” coating during baking.

Technique Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking and ensures even cooking.
2. Double Coat in Sugar: Rolling the dough balls in both granulated and powdered sugar enhances the crackled effect and adds a slight crunch to the exterior.
3. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring produces vibrant colors without watering down the dough.
4. Even Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie sizes, which helps them bake evenly.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Swirled Cookies: Instead of separating the dough into two colors, gently combine the red and green dough to create a beautiful marbled effect. Roll the dough just enough to swirl the colors without blending them completely. This creates a striking and artistic look, making each cookie unique. Swirled cookies are especially eye-catching on dessert platters, where their intricate designs are sure to stand out.

Holiday Shapes: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars, Christmas trees, snowflakes, or candy canes. After cutting the shapes, coat them generously in powdered sugar to maintain the crinkle effect while adding a snowy look. These shaped cookies are perfect for holiday parties, especially when decorated with edible glitter or festive sprinkles to make them sparkle.

Sandwich Cookies: Transform your crinkle cookies into indulgent sandwich cookies by spreading a layer of frosting, ganache, or jam between two cookies. Cream cheese frosting adds tanginess, while chocolate ganache enhances the richness of the cookies. For a fruity twist, use raspberry or strawberry jam. These sandwich cookies are perfect for gifting, as they add an extra layer of decadence that feels celebratory.

Additional Tips for Success

Room-Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures the butter creams properly with the sugar, creating a smooth and fluffy base for the dough. Room-temperature eggs also incorporate more evenly into the batter, resulting in a more cohesive dough and tender cookies.

Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy. Keep a close eye on the baking time and remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges are set but the centers are still slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet, achieving the perfect texture. Overbaking can result in dry or hard cookies, which lose their charm.

Store Properly: After baking, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Place sheets of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. Storing the cookies properly ensures they retain their softness and prevents the powdered sugar from becoming sticky due to moisture. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Chill the Dough Thoroughly: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also ensures the cookies maintain their shape during baking. If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, pop it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.

Recipe Variations

Peppermint Crinkle Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a cool and refreshing holiday twist. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the powdered sugar coating before baking. The combination of mint and sweet makes these cookies a refreshing alternative to classic crinkles.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: For chocolate lovers, replace 1/4 cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder to create a rich, fudgy version of these cookies. The cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with the powdered sugar coating, offering a decadent and crowd-pleasing treat. For added indulgence, stir in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips to the dough.

Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure. These cookies can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture or flavor. Adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the flour blend can also help achieve a softer crumb.

Fruit-Flavored Crinkles: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of fruit extracts such as raspberry, orange, or lemon into the dough. The fruit flavors complement the bright red and green colors, adding a fresh and citrusy note. Garnish the cookies with candied orange zest or freeze-dried raspberry powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Spiced Crinkle Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dough for a warm, spiced variation that evokes the flavors of the holiday season. These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or spiced cider.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing Dough

1. Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until firm.
2. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Freezing Baked Cookies

1. Let the cookies cool completely before freezing.
2. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Reduce Sugar: Use less granulated sugar in the dough and opt for a light coating of powdered sugar.
2. Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
3. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine.
4. Natural Coloring: Use beet powder for red dough and matcha powder for green dough as natural food coloring options.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Holiday Parties: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter surrounded by other Christmas treats like gingerbread cookies and candy canes.
2. Cookie Exchange: These vibrant cookies are sure to stand out at any cookie swap. Package them in decorative tins for a festive touch.
3. Gift Boxes: Include these cookies in holiday gift boxes along with truffles and peppermint bark for a thoughtful homemade gift.
4. Dessert Table: Add them to a holiday dessert spread alongside pies, cakes, and brownies for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Christmas Crinkle Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, freeze the dough balls and bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready.

2. How do I keep the powdered sugar coating from melting?
Double-coating the cookies—first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar—helps maintain the snowy appearance. Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep moisture at bay.

3. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
While liquid food coloring works, gel food coloring is better as it creates vibrant colors without affecting the consistency of the dough.

4. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

5. Can I freeze these cookies after baking?
Yes! Cool the cookies completely, then freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

6. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking. This firms up the dough and ensures the cookies hold their shape in the oven.

7. Can I use natural food coloring?
Absolutely! Beet powder works well for red, and matcha or spinach powder can be used for green. These options are perfect for those seeking natural alternatives.

8. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
Yes! You can mix in mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or sprinkles for an extra festive twist. Just fold them into the dough before chilling.

Conclusion

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of the holiday season. With their vibrant colors, snowy sugar coating, and irresistible texture, they bring joy to every table they grace. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cookies are a must-have for any holiday baking lineup.

Whether you’re creating memories with loved ones in the kitchen or sharing a sweet treat with friends, these cookies capture the magic of Christmas. Bake a batch this season and enjoy the warmth and happiness they bring to everyone who takes a bite!

Print