Description

Get into the holiday spirit with these festive Christmas Crinkle Cookies! Soft, chewy, and bursting with vibrant red and green colors, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Made with a simple cake mix base, they’re quick and easy to prepare, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re making treats for a holiday party, gifting friends and family, or simply indulging in some seasonal baking, these cookies are guaranteed to spread cheer. Let’s whip up a batch of these merry bites that capture the magic of Christmas!

Ingredients

• Cookie Dough:
• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Coloring & Coating:
• Red gel food coloring
• Green gel food coloring
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until a smooth, soft dough forms. Divide the dough evenly into two separate bowls. Add red gel food coloring to one bowl and green gel food coloring to the other. Mix each until the colors are vibrant and well incorporated.

Once the dough is ready, it’s time to chill. Cover each bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is essential for making the dough easier to handle and shaping perfect cookie balls.

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out the chilled dough and roll it into balls with your hands. Generously coat each dough ball in powdered sugar, ensuring every inch is covered. This powdered sugar layer creates the signature crinkle effect during baking.

Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed and their tops have cracked beautifully. Be careful not to overbake; the centers should remain soft to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Conclusion

Enhance the Crinkle Effect: For an even more dramatic crackle, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar first, followed by the powdered sugar. The granulated sugar helps create extra texture.
Use Quality Food Coloring: Opt for high-quality gel food coloring to achieve bold, festive hues. Liquid food coloring may dilute the dough and affect its consistency.
Storage: Keep these cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for longer storage.

Christmas Crinkle Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining festive colors with a deliciously soft and chewy texture. Their ease of preparation makes them ideal for last-minute holiday baking or a fun family activity. Pair them with a glass of milk or a steaming cup of cocoa for the ultimate holiday indulgence. Want more festive ideas? Check out our [suggest a link to another holiday recipe] for more seasonal inspiration. Share your creations with loved ones and spread the joy of holiday baking! 🎄