As I gathered around the kitchen counter, the scent of vanilla and the vibrant colors of red and green emerged in a delightful dance—a true sign that the holidays were here! These Christmas Crinkle Cookies not only add a festive spirit to any gathering, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. With a soft and chewy texture, each bite delivers a nostalgic reminder of cherished holiday moments. Plus, they make for a fun family baking activity that will have everyone pitching in, from rolling the dough balls to dusting them in powdered sugar. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that will impress your friends and family while keeping things simple, you’ve come to the right place. Ready to get started on creating these festive delights?
Why are Christmas Crinkle Cookies a must?
Delightful, festive appeal: These Christmas Crinkle Cookies bring an eye-catching burst of color that brightens up any holiday spread, making them an instant crowd favorite.
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll find that creating these treats is easy enough for bakers of all levels.
Family fun: Get everyone involved in the festive spirit—rolling dough, adding color, and dusting in powdered sugar turns baking into a cherished holiday memory.
Versatile variations: Mix up the colors or flavors to create alternatives for other occasions, whether it’s springtime cookies or a delightful twist on your classic chocolate chip.
Irresistible texture: Soft on the inside with a slightly crispy outer layer, these cookies are the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of cocoa, just like my beloved Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
• Festive and easy to make!
For the Dough
- White Cake Mix – Provides the cookie’s structure and sweetness; a gluten-free cake mix can be used if needed.
- Eggs – Binds everything together and adds moisture; no substitutes recommended for binding.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor beautifully; almond extract offers a delightful twist if you prefer.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds richness and moisture; melted coconut oil or butter can work as alternatives.
For the Coloring
- Red Food Coloring Gel – Provides a vibrant hue that makes these Christmas Crinkle Cookies festive; choose gel for better coloring without affecting texture.
- Green Food Coloring Gel – Complements the red for a joyful holiday look!
For the Coating
- Powdered Sugar – Coats the cookies to create a snowy effect, adding to the festive presentation; no substitutions recommended here.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This vital step ensures that your Christmas Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture. While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, making cleanup a breeze and preventing sticking during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack two eggs and add 1/3 cup of vegetable oil along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients until they are fully combined and slightly frothy, which will help incorporate air into the mixture for a light cookie texture. This creates a base for your festive cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine with the Cake Mix
Next, pour in one box of white cake mix into the wet ingredients while continuously mixing. Stir until the cake mix is completely absorbed, and a thick dough forms. You want a dough that can be rolled into balls but is slightly sticky, as this will help achieve the signature crinkle effect in your delicious Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough
Divide the dough evenly into two separate bowls. In one bowl, add a few drops of red food coloring gel, and in the other bowl, add green food coloring gel. Mix each bowl thoroughly until the color is vibrant and evenly distributed, creating that festive holiday spirit in your dough. Don’t be afraid to adjust the coloring to your liking!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once the dough is colored, cover both bowls with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it improves the dough’s texture, making it easier to handle and enhancing the crinkle effect when baked. It’s a perfect time to tidy up your kitchen or gather your loved ones to join in the fun.
Step 6: Scoop and Roll
After the dough has chilled, use a medium cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each scoop into a smooth ball between your palms. Then generously coat each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring they are fully covered, which will create the beautiful snowy appearance once baked. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space in between for spreading.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake your Christmas Crinkle Cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they puff up slightly and the tops begin to crack, resembling snow drifts. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Enjoy the Festive Treats
As the cookies cool, take a moment to admire your delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies, which should now have a soft interior and a delicate powdered sugar coating. Once cooled, serve them up on a festive platter or store them in an airtight container. These treats will surely spread joy and memories this holiday season!
Expert Tips for Christmas Crinkle Cookies
-
Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes is essential for creating the perfect crinkle effect while making it easier to handle.
-
Control the Color: Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues that won’t affect the dough texture—start with a few drops, mixing until you reach your desired shade.
-
Avoid Stickiness: If your dough feels too sticky to roll, try adding a small amount of flour; just ensure you maintain enough moisture for that soft texture in your Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
-
Watch the Bake Time: Baking times can vary by oven, so keep an eye on the cookies around the 9-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
-
Prevent Overcrowding: Space the dough balls adequately on the baking sheet to allow proper spreading; this helps achieve the right shape and texture without merging.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. After mixing the wet ingredients into the cake mix, divide the dough into two bowls, color them red and green, and wrap each bowl tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, and then follow the rolling and baking instructions as directed. This way, you’ll have deliciously festive cookies with minimal effort, perfect for impromptu gatherings or planned holiday events!
What to Serve with Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Indulging in the delightful sweetness of these cookies is only enhanced when paired with the perfect accompaniments to create a festive feast.
-
Rich Hot Chocolate: The warm, creamy texture of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the soft, chewy cookies, keeping you cozy during chilly holiday evenings.
-
Whipped Cream Cheese Dip: This tangy dip provides a lovely contrast to the cookies’ sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors for a festive dessert spread.
-
Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples adds freshness and a burst of color, bringing together the holiday spirit in every bite.
-
Gingerbread Cookies: Serving these alongside gingerbread cookies rounds out your dessert table with classic holiday flavors—just imagine the joy of sampling both treats!
-
Candy Cane Milkshake: For a fun twist on dessert, a peppermint-infused milkshake complements the festive colors and flavors of the crinkle cookies, whisking you away to holiday bliss.
-
Sparkling Cider: A glass of chilled sparkling cider elevates the experience, adding a festive fizz that dances on your palate while you savor your cookies.
-
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate makes for an irresistible, textural contrast to the soft, sugary cookies.
-
Eggnog: This iconic holiday drink brings creamy, nutty flavors that seamlessly blend with the festive cookies, making for a comforting celebration.
These delightful pairings will elevate your holiday gatherings and make every bite of Christmas Crinkle Cookies even sweeter!
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Christmas Crinkle Cookies with these creative twists that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Almond Magic: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a delightful nutty flavor that enhances the festive experience.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough before rolling for a rich, decadent touch that’ll have chocolate lovers swooning.
- Nutty Surprise: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.
- Peppermint Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a refreshing holiday twist that pairs perfectly with hot cocoa.
Bringing a unique flavor to your Christmas Crinkle Cookies is easy! You could even explore pastel colors for an Easter theme or try out seasonal spices like cinnamon. Simply follow the guidelines of my Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy recipe for an additional festive treat option. And don’t hesitate to experiment—everyone in the family can create their version of these lovely cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Airtight Container: Keep your Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them fresh longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen Christmas Crinkle Cookies at room temperature for about an hour or microwave them for a few seconds for an instant treat.
Christmas Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix works best for Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
I recommend using a standard white cake mix for these Christmas Crinkle Cookies. It provides the perfect structure and sweetness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute a gluten-free cake mix, and you’ll still achieve that delightful texture!
How should I store my Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, they can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze until firm—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is too sticky to roll into balls, don’t worry! Start by chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes, which often helps. If it’s still too sticky after chilling, you can gradually add a small amount of flour—just a tablespoon at a time—until you reach a manageable consistency that will still allow the cookies to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel for Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
While you can use liquid food coloring, I highly advise against it. Gel food coloring is best as it provides a more vibrant hue without altering the consistency of your cookie dough. If you opt for liquid, start with a very small amount and be mindful, as it might affect the dough’s moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re baking for friends or family with dietary restrictions, be cautious of any allergies to eggs or gluten (if not using a gluten-free mix). For a vegan alternative, you could experiment with flaxseed meal as a binding agent (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and a plant-based cake mix, though this may alter the texture.
Colorful Christmas Crinkle Cookies that Bring Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Pour the white cake mix into the wet ingredients and mix until a thick dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two bowls; color one with red food coloring and the other with green, mixing well.
- Chill the colored dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Scoop and roll the dough into balls, then coat them generously with powdered sugar.
- Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, until puffed and cracked on top.
- Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, serve or store in an airtight container.
Leave a Reply