Grinch Cookies: Bake These Festive Treats Today!

this RECIPE

Introduction to Grinch Cookies

The holidays have a magical way of bringing us together, don’t they? One of my favorite traditions is baking festive treats that fill the kitchen with delightful scents and smiles. This year, why not whip up some fun and festive Grinch Cookies? They’re not only adorable with their vibrant green hue, but they’re also simple enough to make, even for the busiest moms and professionals.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these whimsical cookies that bring joy to family gatherings or friendly get-togethers. Let’s spread some holiday cheer, one cookie at a time!

Why You’ll Love This Grinch Cookies

Grinch Cookies are a wonderful blend of simplicity and festive flair. With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time. Their bright green color is perfect for holiday cheer, and each cookie offers a delightful peppermint taste that’s simply unforgettable.

These cookies are ideal for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even as a sweet surprise for friends. Trust me, every bite is a holiday hug!

Ingredients for Grinch Cookies

To create these festive Grinch Cookies, you’ll need a few staple ingredients that work together beautifully. The white cake mix serves as the base, lending a soft texture and sweetness. Softened unsalted butter adds richness, while eggs contribute to the dough’s richness and structure.

Peppermint extract is essential for that refreshing holiday flavor, so I recommend sticking with it. But if you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it with vanilla for a different take. A few drops of green gel food coloring help create that iconic Grinch hue, while powdered sugar and cornstarch add a delightful sweetness and texture to the coating.

For a festive finish, heart-shaped sprinkles bring joy and color. Precise quantities can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience, making your shopping trip a breeze!

• 15.25 ounces white cake mix 432 g box
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract or mint extract
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• green gel food coloring
• ¼ cup powdered sugar 32 g
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• red heart-shaped sprinkle or cinnamon

How to Make Grinch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F. This ensures our Grinch Cookies bake evenly and rise beautifully. While that lovely heat is building up, grab a large baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper, which not only keeps the cookies from sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. Think of it as a winter wonderland for your cookies!

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, and eggs. Using a hand-held mixer or a stand mixer, mix these ingredients together on a low speed until they’re just combined. You want to see that beautiful buttery smoothness. Don’t stress if the mixture looks a bit thick—it’s meant to! The sticky consistency will eventually melt into cookie magic.

Step 3: Add Flavors and Color

Next up, it’s time to add in the festive flavors! Pour in the peppermint extract and a splash of vanilla extract. Now, for the fun part—add a few drops of green gel food coloring. This is where the Grinch spirit really shines! Mix on low speed just until the color spreads evenly through the dough. You’ll want that vibrant green that practically sings “Merry Christmas!”

Step 4: Prepare the Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. This mixture is the secret to achieving that delightful, cracked appearance we adore in our Grinch Cookies. The cornstarch keeps the cookies soft while also giving them that shimmering finish. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step!

Step 5: Form the Cookies

Now we’re ready to scoop and roll! Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out some of that rich green dough. Roll each scoop into a ball, then roll it generously in the powdered sugar mixture until completely coated. Place the cookies about an inch apart on your baking sheet. They need a little room to spread their holiday cheer!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your cookie-filled baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They’re done when the edges are set and the tops look dry. Your kitchen will start to smell like a holiday dream, and you’ll know you’re on the right path.

Step 7: Add the Heart Sprinkles

As soon as you pull those cookies out of the oven, gently press a heart-shaped sprinkle into the center of each one. Do this while they’re still warm—it’s like giving each cookie a tiny festive hug! The heat will help the sprinkles stick like magic.

Step 8: Cooling Time

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial; otherwise, you’ll get cookie crumbles instead of beautiful bites! Once they’re fully cooled, you can enjoy them or store them away for later. Happy baking!

Tips for Success

• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper; it saves time and keeps cookies from sticking.
• Watch your baking time closely; overbaking leads to tough cookies.
• Adjust food coloring gradually until you achieve the perfect Grinch green.
• Experiment with different sprinkles for a unique look each time!

Equipment Needed

To make these festive Grinch Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy glass or metal one works wonders.
• Hand-held or Stand Mixer: This makes mixing a breeze. If you don’t have one, a good old-fashioned whisk will do!
• Cookie Scoop: A 1 ½ tablespoon scoop ensures uniform cookies. If you lack one, use two spoons instead.
• Baking Sheet: Essential for baking, but line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack: This helps cookies cool evenly. If you don’t have one, a plate works fine.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put a twist on these delightful Grinch Cookies! Here are some fun adaptations to consider:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. You’ll still get that soft texture and festive flavor!
• Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chocolate chunks for a sweet mix of flavors. Chocolate and peppermint are a match made in heaven!
• Nuts Galore: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. They also lend a lovely contrast to the soft cookie texture.
• Minty Fresh: Use mint chocolate chips instead of regular ones to enhance the peppermint flavor. It’s a refreshing treat!
• Seasonal Sprinkles: Get creative with different holiday-themed sprinkles! Red and white or rainbow mixes can change the cookie’s personality.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create Grinch Cookies that reflect your own holiday spirit!

Serving Suggestions

Transform your Grinch Cookies into a festive centerpiece! Try pairing them with rich hot cocoa or creamy eggnog for a delightful treat. Present them in colorful holiday-themed containers to spread cheer. For extra flair, serve alongside some fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert duo!

FAQs about Grinch Cookies

Got questions about these festive Grinch Cookies? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear from fellow bakers.

How do I store Grinch Cookies? These delightful cookies are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft texture and festive flavor. If you want to enjoy them later, they can last up to a week in that container.

Can I freeze Grinch Cookies? Absolutely! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, then pack them into freezer-safe bags. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

What’s the best way to decorate my Grinch Cookies? While heart-shaped sprinkles are adorable, you can also use edible glitter or drizzles of white chocolate for a lovely finish. If you’re feeling creative, pipe some frosting for extra flair!

Can I make adjustments to the recipe? Of course! Feel free to play around with flavors or add mix-ins like chocolate chips. No matter how you tweak them, these Grinch Cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer!

Final Thoughts

As the holiday season approaches, these festive Grinch Cookies are here to spread joy and create cherished memories. Their delightful flavors and bright green appearance make them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.

The ease of preparation means you can whip up a batch even on the busiest days, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones.

So, gather your family in the kitchen and bake up some holiday magic. With each cookie, you’ll be sharing laughter, love, and plenty of smiles, one heart-shaped sprinkle at a time!

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