Name: Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 43 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 436 g white cake mix; 2 eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; Red food colouring; Green food colouring

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Introduction to Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Ah, the joyful chaos of the holiday season! Every year, I’m reminded of how the air fills with the sweet scent of baked dreams. Christmas Crinkle Cookies are my secret weapon for brightening up any gathering. With their charming powdered sugar tops and vibrant colors, these cookies are sure to dazzle your family and guests. Plus, they’re incredibly easy and quick to whip up, perfect for those busy days when time feels like it’s slipping away. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make you the star of your holiday festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Crinkle Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the delicious taste of Christmas Crinkle Cookies to get you into the holiday spirit! These festive bites are not only simple to make but also incredibly quick, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. The delightful contrast of chewy and soft textures, combined with an explosion of color, makes them irresistible. Trust me, these cookies will bring smiles and festive cheer to your table!

Ingredients Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is key to baking magical Christmas Crinkle Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

White cake mix: This is the star of the show, giving our cookies that pillowy texture and sweetness.
Eggs: Essential for binding everything together, adding richness and moisture.
Vegetable oil: This keeps the cookies soft and luscious; you can substitute with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
Powdered sugar: A dusting of this makes our cookies visually stunning, giving them that signature crinkle look.
Red and green food coloring: These vibrant hues add a fun, festive flair. Feel free to mix your own shades for something unique!

For those who might want to experiment, you can sprinkle in some chocolate chips or peppermint extract for an extra festive twist. Keep in mind; exact measurements can be found at the bottom of this article, available for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making these delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies! With just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of cookies ready to impress. The process is simple and rewarding. All you need is a little time and love!

Prepare the Dough

First, grab a medium bowl and combine the white cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs.

Mix them thoroughly until everything blends nicely. If the dough feels a bit sticky, don’t worry! You can sprinkle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of flour. This adjustment gives your dough the perfect consistency for rolling.

Color the Dough

Next, let’s make this dough festive! Divide your dough in half and set one portion aside. Take one half and add a few drops of red food coloring.

Mix until you achieve your desired shade. Repeat with the other half using green food coloring. Don’t be shy—get creative! You can even mix colors for a unique twist.

Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough is crucial for that perfect cookie texture. Cover each portion with plastic wrap or a lid and place them in the fridge for about thirty minutes.

This step helps the flavors meld together and results in cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, now’s the right time to preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature is key for getting that ideal chewy center with a slightly crisp exterior.

Preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t come out doughy!

Shape the Cookies

Once your dough has chilled, it’s time to roll! Take a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Then, coat each ball generously in powdered sugar.

This step gives our cookies that signature crinkle effect when they bake. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.

Bake and Cool

Now, pop those delightful cookies into the oven and bake for about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to look set but slightly soft in the center.

Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling time makes them even chewier. After waiting (which can be hard!), they’re ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success

Measure ingredients precisely for consistency and flavor.
Use fresh eggs for better texture and taste.
Keep the dough chilled to prevent it from spreading too much.
Check cookies frequently towards the end of baking time to avoid overbaking.
Consider using a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.

Equipment Needed

Medium mixing bowl – A large bowl works too!
Spoon or spatula – Any mixing tool will do.
Measuring cups – You can use a scale for precision.
Baking sheet – A regular sheet pan is perfect.
Parchment paper – Aluminum foil works as an alternative.

Variations

Add chocolate chips for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Incorporate crushed peppermint candy for a festive crunch.
Try using gluten-free cake mix to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Mix in some chopped nuts for added texture and a rich taste.
Experiment with different food coloring combinations for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm for a delightful gooey texture.
Pair with a glass of cold milk or a festive hot cocoa.
Arrange on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves for a splash of color.
Gift wrapped in a clear bag, they make a charming holiday treat.
Include with a selection of other festive cookies for a delightful dessert spread.

FAQs about Christmas Crinkle Cookies

When it comes to baking Christmas Crinkle Cookies, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!

Can I use different types of cake mix?

Absolutely! While white cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with chocolate or yellow cake mix for a unique flavor twist!

How can I store leftover cookies?

Keep your Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge or freeze them!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and chill it a day or two in advance. Just store the wrapped portions in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky, that’s an easy fix! Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of flour to adjust the consistency. This will make rolling a breeze!

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Definitely! The vibrant colors and soft texture are kid-approved. Plus, they’re easy and fun to decorate together!

Final Thoughts

Creating Christmas Crinkle Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about weaving joy into the holiday tapestry. The delight on my family’s faces as they bite into these colorful treats reminds me of all the love shared during the season. Moreover, these cookies capture the essence of holiday cheer with their burst of color and flavor. Whether you’re spending time with family or gifting them to friends, these cookies never fail to spark happiness. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and make some unforgettable memories with these festive delights!