Name: Festive Christmas Crinkle Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 13.25 ounces White Cake Mix (Use a 13.25-ounce box for best results.); 2 Eggs (No substitutions typically recommended.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla for a more robust taste.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can be replaced with melted butter if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Red Food Coloring Gel (Gel ensures saturation without extra moisture.); 1 teaspoon Green Food Coloring Gel (Perfect for festive appeal.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Essential for rolling the cookie dough balls.)

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As I unpack my box of holiday decorations, a burst of excitement fills the air; it’s time to make cookies! Nothing says festive spirit quite like the vibrant colors of Christmas Crinkle Cookies. With their delightful soft centers and eye-catching red and green hues, these cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to make. Utilizing just a simple white cake mix, they combine quick prep with show-stopping presentation, making them perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. The sweet, snowy dusting of powdered sugar adds just the right festive touch. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with every delicious bite? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why Are Christmas Crinkle Cookies a Must?

Festive, vibrant appearance: These cookies bring the holiday spirit to life with their eye-catching red and green hues, making them perfect for any festive gathering.

Quick and easy preparation: Using a simple white cake mix, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for busy bakers or last-minute plans!

Meltingly soft texture: Each bite is a delightful combination of chewy centers and a sugary exterior, offering a deliciously tender experience.

Versatile fun: Feel free to add your favorite extracts or chocolate chips for a unique twist, allowing you to customize them for any celebration.

Crowd-pleasing treat: Whether you’re sharing with family or friends, these cookies are sure to impress everyone at your holiday table! For more festive ideas, try making Lemon Raspberry Cookies or Tiramisu Cookies Melt.

Christmas Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• White Cake Mix – Ensures your cookies are moist and fluffy; use a 13.25-ounce box for best results.
• Eggs – Adds structure and richness to your dough; no substitutions typically recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a more robust taste.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture to keep cookies chewy; can be replaced with melted butter if preferred.

For the Color
• Red Food Coloring Gel – Provides vibrant color to half the dough; gel ensures saturation without extra moisture.
• Green Food Coloring Gel – Tints the other half of the dough beautifully, perfect for festive appeal.

For the Finishing Touch
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for rolling the cookie dough balls, giving that signature snowy appearance and sweetness.

These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are easy to prepare, making them a delightful way to brighten your holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures your Christmas Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, allowing for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the white cake mix, stirring until the mixture is fully blended and smooth. This step creates a rich and flavorful dough that will be the base of your delightful cookies.

Step 3: Divide and Color Dough
Once your dough is mixed, divide it into two equal portions. Add red food coloring gel to one half and green to the other half, mixing thoroughly until the colors are vibrant and well incorporated. This will create the signature festive look of your Christmas Crinkle Cookies.

Step 4: Chill Dough
To enhance the texture and workability of your dough, cover the bowls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential for achieving that perfectly crinkled exterior and soft center, making your cookies a holiday hit.

Step 5: Form Cookies
After chilling, use a medium cookie scoop to portion out the colored dough. Roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring they are well-coated before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. This will give your Christmas Crinkle Cookies their iconic snow-dusted appearance.

Step 6: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, watching for slightly golden edges; this is a good indicator that your cookies are done. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Christmas Crinkle Cookies have cooled completely, serve them up to family and friends. Pair these delightful treats with your favorite holiday beverages for a sweet touch that will spread festive cheer all around!

Expert Tips for Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Chill Dough First: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential for achieving the soft center and iconic crinkle effect you desire.
Use Gel Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid; this helps maintain the right consistency without adding extra moisture to your Christmas Crinkle Cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; slight golden edges indicate they’re ready. Overbaking can lead to cookies being too crunchy rather than soft and chewy.
Coat Well in Powdered Sugar: Roll each cookie ball thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking; this creates that beautiful snowy appearance and adds sweetness.
Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding a splash of almond or peppermint extract for a unique twist on your Christmas Crinkle Cookies that will surprise and delight!

What to Serve with Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Indulge in the festive delights that perfectly complement these charming cookies and elevate your holiday celebrations.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The warm, creamy goodness of hot cocoa balances the sweetness of the cookies, providing a cozy drink option for chilly nights. Add a sprinkle of marshmallows or cinnamon for an extra touch of comfort.
Festive Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog adds a traditional holiday flavor, enhancing the festive joy of your Christmas Crinkle Cookies. Serve it chilled or warm with a dash of nutmeg on top.
Classic Milk: Cool, refreshing milk pairs brilliantly with the sugary sweetness of the cookies. The contrast between the soft cookies and the creamy milk makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Peppermint Bark: This chocolatey treat offers a nice crunch and minty freshness that complements the cookies’ chewy texture while adding a delightful variety to your dessert spread.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and kiwis brings a refreshing and healthy contrast to the rich, sweet flavors of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae: Top a scoop of vanilla ice cream with crumbled Christmas Crinkle Cookies for a decadent and festive dessert. The warm cookie pairs wonderfully with the cold ice cream, creating a joyful treat.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions for a delightful spread that will spread cheer at any holiday gathering!

Make Ahead Options

The delightful Christmas Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking a breeze! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe, then after coloring the dough, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This keeps the colors vibrant and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes and proceed to roll in powdered sugar and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies just in time for those festive gatherings, saving you crucial time during the holiday rush!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks; just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy more of these delicious Christmas Crinkle Cookies, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven for a fresh-baked touch!

Christmas Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to unleash your creativity and make these cookies truly your own—your taste buds will thank you!

Vegan Option: Swap eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a plant-based delight.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy the festive cheer without worry!
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract for a delightful twist that complements the holiday spirit wonderfully.
Choco-Peppermint: Mix in some chocolate chips and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a delightful holiday crunch.
Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Pastel Colors: Use pastel food coloring for a unique look—perfect for baby showers or spring celebrations beyond just Christmas!
Double-Dipped: Roll the cookie balls twice in powdered sugar before baking for an extra snowy finish that’s visually impressive and delicious!
Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a less sweet cookie, reduce the amount of powdered sugar used for rolling, balancing the sweetness to your preferences.

Whether you’re excited to try a vegan twist or want to check out the cozy feel of Chocolate Chip Cookies, these festive variations offer endless fun in the kitchen! Happy baking!

Christmas Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your eggs are fresh—look for a clean, uncracked shell. If you’re using vanilla extract, choose pure vanilla for optimal flavor. As for the vegetable oil, using a neutral oil like canola or light olive oil will ensure your cookies come out perfectly without overpowering the taste.

How long can I store Christmas Crinkle Cookies, and what is the best storage method?
I recommend storing your Christmas Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and preserves that delightful chewy texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but make sure they come to room temperature before enjoying.

Can I freeze Christmas Crinkle Cookies, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your cookies, first spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if my cookies aren’t crinkling as expected?
No worries! If your Christmas Crinkle Cookies aren’t developing the perfect crinkle, it could be due to the dough not being chilled enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Also, ensure you’re rolling them well in powdered sugar; this creates the necessary surface to crack nicely during baking. If they still seem too flat, you might need to check your baking powder; old ingredients can affect the rise.

Are there any dietary considerations for Christmas Crinkle Cookies, especially for allergies?
Exactly! If you’re concerned about allergies, be mindful of using Gluten-Free cake mix if you or anyone you’re serving has a gluten intolerance. Additionally, those with egg allergies may consider using a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute for each egg, which can provide a similar binding quality. Always check all labels for cross-contaminants if allergies are a concern.

How can I adjust the sweetness or flavor for Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Yes, absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the powdered sugar coating slightly, or experiment with flavor by adding almond or peppermint extract instead of vanilla. For added texture and taste, consider folding in chocolate chips; this can create a delightful surprise in each bite!