Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are soft, fudgy, and irresistibly rich, with a signature cracked exterior dusted in powdered sugar. Crisp on the outside and brownie-like on the inside, these cookies are a timeless favorite, especially during the holidays, but perfect any time a chocolate craving strikes.
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers bakery-style cookies right from your oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fudgy & Soft – Brownie-like centers
- Beautiful Crinkle Look – Perfect for gifting and holidays
- Easy to Make – Simple steps, no fancy tools
- Chocolate Lover Approved – Deep, rich cocoa flavor
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Dough chills well
- Crowd-Pleaser – Always disappears fast
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Bake Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: About 2½ hours
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and oil. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until smooth. - Add Cocoa & Dry Ingredients:
Stir in cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add flour until a soft, sticky dough forms. - Chill the Dough:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is essential. - Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Form Cookies:
Scoop dough into balls, roll generously in powdered sugar, and place on baking sheets. - Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes until cookies spread and crackle on top. - Cool & Enjoy:
Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
How to Serve
- Best Served: Slightly warm or fully cooled
- Perfect With: Milk, coffee, or hot cocoa
- For Gifting: Package in holiday tins or boxes
- Dessert Plate: Pair with vanilla ice cream
Additional Tips
- Chill dough fully to prevent spreading
- Roll thickly in powdered sugar for bold cracks
- Do not overbake, centers should stay soft
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for best flavor
Variations
- Extra Chocolate: Add chocolate chips
- Mint Crinkle Cookies: Add peppermint extract
- Espresso Boost: Add 1 tsp espresso powder
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Storage & Freezing
- Store: Airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freeze Dough: Up to 2 months
- Freeze Baked Cookies: Up to 2 months
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?
Dough may not have been chilled enough or not enough powdered sugar was used.
Can I skip chilling the dough?
No, chilling is essential for the crinkle effect.
Are these cookies very sweet?
They’re balanced, rich chocolate with a sweet exterior.
Can kids help make these?
Absolutely, rolling in sugar is fun and easy.
Conclusion
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a classic for a reason, rich, fudgy, and beautifully cracked with every bite. Whether for holidays, cookie swaps, or everyday treats, this recipe delivers dependable, delicious results every time.
