Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Name: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature); 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup confectioners' sugar (for rolling)

Posted on October 29, 2025

Desserts & Sweets

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Rich and fudgy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe is the perfect treat for any occasion! These delightful cookies are not only easy to make but also bring a festive touch to your holiday gatherings. With their unique crinkled appearance, they stand out on dessert tables and are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a Christmas party or a cozy evening at home, these cookies are a must-have.

[amazon_auto_links id="2567"]

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This cookie recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and sugar creates a rich chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just an indulgent snack at home, these cookies fit any occasion.
Eye-Catching Appearance: Rolled in powdered sugar, these cookies have a stunning look that adds charm to dessert platters.
Make Ahead Option: The dough can be chilled for up to two days, allowing you to prepare ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gather these essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper
Baking sheets
Wire rack

Why These Tools Matter

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Hand mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and ensures smooth batter consistency.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preserving their texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ (powdered) sugar (for rolling)

[amazon_auto_links id="2567"]

How to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Unsweetened cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Salt

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer to:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until creamy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the following ingredients to the butter mixture:
1. Large eggs
2. Vanilla extract

Mix on medium speed until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the flour and cocoa powder mixture from Step 1 on low speed until combined. The dough will be fairly soft and sticky.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough for at least 3 hours or up to 2 days.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350° F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Roll Cookies in Sugar

Place powdered sugar in a wide shallow bowl. Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls:
1. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
2. Place on prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies for 9-11 minutes until just set. There should be almost no indentation when gently touched in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can be served in styles that enhance their rich flavor and beautiful appearance.

With a Glass of Milk

Pairing your cookies with a cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and adds a creamy texture that complements the fudge-like richness.

As Dessert Sandwiches

Create cookie sandwiches by spreading a layer of whipped cream or frosting between two cookies. This adds an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.

On a Festive Platter

Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter alongside seasonal fruits or nuts. This makes for an eye-catching and delicious centerpiece at any gathering.

With Ice Cream

Serve warm Chocolate Crinkle Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm and cold is heavenly.

As Party Favors

Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make perfect homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

How to Perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Achieving the perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your cookie game!

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 3 hours allows the flavors to meld and helps prevent spreading during baking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your cocoa powder and baking powder are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven just before they look fully set; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Roll Generously in Powdered Sugar: A good coating of powdered sugar is crucial for that iconic crinkle effect, so don’t skimp on this step!
Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for additional texture and flavor variations.
Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their sweet profile. Here are some excellent options:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially creamy ones like brie, balances sweetness with savory notes.
Coffee or Tea: Brewed beverages enhance dessert time, creating a cozy atmosphere while complementing the cookie’s chocolatey flavor.
Chocolate Mousse: For chocoholics, serving chocolate mousse alongside these cookies will double down on indulgence.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie bars pairs well with chocolate flavors, adding variety to dessert options.
Caramel Sauce Dip: Provide warm caramel sauce for dipping; it adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Crinkle Cookies can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Ignoring the chilling time: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies spreading too much while baking. Always chill your dough for at least 3 hours.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Using too much flour or cocoa powder can alter the texture. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Baking at the wrong temperature: An oven that is too hot or not hot enough affects the crinkle effect. Always preheat your oven to 350° F before baking.
Overbaking the cookies: Baking them for too long makes cookies dry and hard. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just set.
Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or cocoa can affect taste and texture. Always check expiration dates on your ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

item Store your Chocolate Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container.
item They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

item Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
item Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; they will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300° F and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes to revive their softness.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for around 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve the perfect crinkle effect in my Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe?

To get that signature crinkle look, ensure you roll your dough balls thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking. The contrast between the sugar coating and the dark chocolate creates beautiful cracks.

Can I customize my Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even peppermint extract for different flavors. Experimenting with mix-ins is a great way to make this recipe your own.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky after chilling, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands when rolling into balls. This will help manage stickiness without altering the recipe.

How many servings does this Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe yield?

This recipe yields approximately 56 delicious cookies, making it perfect for sharing during the holidays or at gatherings.

Conclusion

These rich and fudgy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are sure to impress everyone at your next gathering. Their beautiful appearance and delightful texture make them an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or add-ins like nuts or chips for an extra twist!