Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a classic holiday favorite, known for their rich, fudgy centers and beautifully cracked, powdered sugar-coated exterior. Perfectly chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside, they’re not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are soft, fudgy treats with a rich chocolate flavor and a signature crinkled, powdered sugar-coated exterior.These cookies are made from a thick chocolate dough rolled in powdered sugar before baking. As they bake, the dough spreads and cracks, creating a beautiful crinkle pattern that contrasts the dark chocolate with the white sugar.The result is a chewy, brownie-like center with a slightly crisp outer layer.The rich chocolate flavor comes from a combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate, giving the cookies a deep, indulgent taste.A touch of vanilla and a pinch of salt enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors. The powdered sugar coating not only creates the crinkle effect but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cocoa’s slight bitterness.Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or any time you crave a chocolatey treat.They store well and maintain their soft texture for days, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert. Serve them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate comfort experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture and whisk until creamy. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
- Roll and Coat: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops are crinkled and the edges are set.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a glass of milk!
Notes
Why You Will Love Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream! These rich, fudgy cookies have a soft, brownie-like center with a crisp, crackled exterior, making them the perfect balance of textures. Rolled in powdered sugar before baking, they develop a beautiful crinkled pattern as they bake, giving them a bakery-style finish. One of the best things about Chocolate Crinkle Cookies is their deep chocolate flavor. Made with cocoa powder and sometimes melted chocolate, they deliver an intense, satisfying taste that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. The contrast between the sugary coating and the rich chocolate interior creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. They’re also incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs. The dough can be prepared ahead of time and chilled, making them ideal for holiday baking or last-minute cravings. These cookies are always a crowd-pleaser, whether served at holiday gatherings, as a sweet gift, or just as an afternoon treat. Their beautiful crinkle pattern and rich taste make them both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Once you try them, Chocolate Crinkle Cookies will become a permanent favorite in your baking rotation!Chocolate Crinkle Cookies – Tips and Serving Tricks
Here are expert tips and serving tricks to ensure your crinkle cookies turn out perfect every time!Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
1. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder
- The deep chocolate flavor in crinkle cookies comes from cocoa powder. Use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa for a smooth, rich taste and a deep, dark color.
2. Chill the Dough
- After mixing the dough, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
- Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop that signature fudgy texture.
- If the dough becomes too firm to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes.
3. Double Coat with Powdered Sugar
- Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar first, then in powdered sugar.
- The granulated sugar forms a barrier, helping the powdered sugar stick and creating more defined cracks.
- Make sure to coat generously for a bold contrast.
4. Bake at the Right Temperature
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
- The cookies should be set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Don’t overbake—this ensures a chewy, fudgy center.
5. Let Them Cool Properly
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.
Serving Tricks
1. Pair with Beverages
- Serve with a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing.
- For adults, pair with a cup of espresso or a creamy hot chocolate for an indulgent treat.
2. Add a Holiday Twist
- Add a hint of peppermint extract to the dough for a festive flavor.
- Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a snowy effect.
- You can also dip half of the cookie in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a fun touch.
3. Create a Cookie Platter
- Arrange crinkle cookies on a platter with other holiday treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and thumbprint cookies for a festive dessert board.
- Add small bowls of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping.
4. Gift Them in Style
- Place the cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper.
- Tie it with a ribbon and add a handwritten tag for a personal touch.
- These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Make It a Sundae
- Warm the cookies slightly and crumble them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce and top with whipped cream for an easy yet decadent dessert.