Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Christmas Crinkle Cookies : every holiday season, the smell of freshly baked cookies fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. One cookie that stands out among the rest is the Christmas Crinkle Cookie. These delightful treats are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. With their beautiful crinkled appearance and dusting of powdered sugar, they certainly make any holiday cookie tray memorable.

Baking these cookies not only brings joy to those who eat them but also to those who make them. If you’re looking for a fun and festive addition to your holiday baking this year, look no further! Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You may be wondering what makes Christmas Crinkle Cookies so special. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a favorite in your household:

1. Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated techniques. Perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a fun activity with the family.
2. Festive Appearance: The white powdered sugar coating on the cookies gives them their signature crinkle and makes them look like snowflakes! They add a nice colorful touch to your holiday cookie tray.
3. Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are soft on the inside with a slight crunch on the outside, making them an irresistible treat.
4. Endless Customization: You can easily modify the flavors or add various mix-ins to create your unique twist on this classic cookie.
5. Perfect for Gift Giving: They make great gifts for friends and family, packaged in a cute box or tin. Who wouldn’t love a homemade treat?

With these points in mind, let’s get started on preparing these delightful cookies!

How to Prepare Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

To make Christmas Crinkle Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 box of chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup of powdered sugar (for rolling)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
• Optional: peppermint extract for a festive twist

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to make your Christmas Crinkle Cookies:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. If you are using vanilla or peppermint extract, add it now. Mix until everything is well combined. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit thick; that’s just how it should be!
3. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
4. Prepare for Baking: Once the dough is firm enough, take it out of the fridge. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
5. Scoop the Dough: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out balls of dough. Roll each ball in your hands to make it nice and round, then roll it in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
6. Place on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the rolled cookies on the sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie as they will expand while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. You want the edges to be set, but the center should still look soft. They will continue to cook slightly after you remove them from the oven.
8. Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now you have your beautiful Christmas Crinkle Cookies ready!

How to Serve Christmas Crinkle Cookies

There are many wonderful ways to serve your Christmas Crinkle Cookies. Here are some ideas:

• Cookie Tray: Arrange them on a festive platter with other holiday cookies like sugar cookies and gingerbread men. The colorful appearance will catch everyone’s eye!
• Gift Giving: Pack them in a decorated box or a clear bag tied with a ribbon. They make a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or coworkers during the holiday season.
• Holiday Parties: Bring a batch to any holiday party as a sweet surprise. They pair well with warm beverages like hot cocoa or coffee.
• Dessert Table: Place them on your Christmas dinner table as a delightful dessert option that guests can enjoy throughout the evening.

How to Store Christmas Crinkle Cookies

To keep your Christmas Crinkle Cookies fresh for as long as possible, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for 3 to 5 days.
• Longer Storage: If you need to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them sit at room temperature for a while, and they will soften up nicely.

Tips for Preparing Christmas Crinkle Cookies

1. Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough is an essential step. It helps the cookies keep their shape and not spread too much during baking.
2. Use Different Cake Mix Flavors: Experiment with different cake mix flavors like vanilla or red velvet for a unique twist. This could make your cookie tray even more colorful!
3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar for rolling.
4. Add Mix-ins: Consider folding in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries into the dough for extra texture and flavor.
5. Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies to avoid overbaking. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.

Variations

If you want to put a fun twist on the classic Christmas Crinkle Cookies, here are some variations to try:

• Peppermint Crinkle Cookies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract into the dough for a minty flavor. You could even add crushed peppermint candies on top after baking!
• Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies: Use red velvet cake mix instead of chocolate for a festive red cookie that’s perfect for Christmas.
• Citrus Crinkle Cookies: Add some lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy burst that brightens the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix! Try vanilla or red velvet for a fun variation. Each flavor will change the taste and appearance of your cookies.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the centers should appear slightly soft and puffy. They will firm up as they cool.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container. They maintain their taste and texture well.

4. How can I prevent the cookies from being too dry?
Keep an eye on the baking time and take them out while they are still soft in the center. Also, make sure not to overmeasuring the flour by scooping directly from the bag, it’s better to scoop flour and then level it off.

5. What should I serve these cookies with?
Christmas Crinkle Cookies pair wonderfully with hot beverages, like hot chocolate, coffee, or warm spiced cider.

Conclusion

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. With their festive appearance, soft texture, and sweet flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The recipe is easy to follow, making it the perfect activity to enjoy with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create memories in the kitchen while baking these beautiful cookies. Enjoy every bite, and may your holiday season be filled with love, joy, and delicious treats!