Why Make This Recipe
Do you love cookies? Chocolate cookies, in particular, are a favorite for many. They are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich chocolate flavor. Chocolate crinkle cookies are not just delicious; they are beautiful to look at too! With the distinct crinkled tops and the powdered sugar coating, they look like little bundles of joy.
Making chocolate crinkle cookies at home is a great choice for any occasion. Whether you want to celebrate a holiday or simply have a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies can fit into any situation. They make wonderful gifts, sweet snacks for a party, or just a personal indulgence.
The best part is that these crinkle cookies are easy to make. If you follow the steps carefully, you can whip up a fresh batch in no time. Plus, family and friends will love how they taste. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into how to make these delicious cookies!
How to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Making chocolate crinkle cookies is simple and fun. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process. Follow each step closely for the best results.
Ingredients
To make these delightful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Directions
Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important as it makes sure your cookies bake evenly.
Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the sheet and make cleanup easier.
Set up the topping bowls: In two shallow bowls, place the extra granulated sugar in one bowl and the powdered sugar in another. This is where you will roll your cookie dough balls later. Set these aside for now.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and light olive or avocado oil. Use a wooden spoon to mix them together until everything is well combined.
Add eggs and vanilla: Crack the two eggs into the cocoa mixture, plus add the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Combine dry ingredients: Now, sprinkle in the baking powder, salt, and flour. Mix until everything is well incorporated. You should have a stiff dough that forms.
Shape the dough: Using a cookie dough scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1 1/2 inch balls. If the dough is too sticky, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
Roll the dough balls: Take one dough ball at a time. First, roll it in the bowl with granulated sugar until it is lightly coated. Next, roll it in the bowl with powdered sugar for a thicker coat. This creates that beautiful crinkle effect when baked.
Bake the cookies: Place the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure each one is about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Watch for the tops to crinkle and the edges to set. They might look a bit soft; they will firm up as they cool.
Cool the cookies: Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing the cookies: If you have leftover cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them in a single layer in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months.
How to Serve Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These chocolate crinkle cookies are delightful on their own. However, there are fun and creative ways to serve them. Here are a few ideas:
With milk: Pair your cookies with a tall glass of milk. The creamy texture of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
As ice cream sandwiches: Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies to make a scrumptious ice cream sandwich. This is especially great in the summer!
With coffee or tea: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich chocolate flavor goes well with both.
At parties: Serve these cookies on a dessert platter at your next gathering. They are sure to be a hit with your guests and add a nice touch to any dessert table.
How to Store Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Storing chocolate crinkle cookies is easy. Here are the best ways to keep them fresh:
At Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep moisture out.
In the Freezer: If you want to save some cookies for later, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Tips to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chill the dough: If your dough is sticky, do not hesitate to chill it. This makes it much easier to handle.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should have cracked tops and slightly soft centers when you take them out. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Use high-quality cocoa powder: The cocoa you choose can greatly affect the chocolate flavor of your cookies. Using high-quality cocoa will make your cookies taste even better!
Experiment with flavors: If you want to add more to your chocolate crinkle cookies, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a bit of mint extract for a different twist.
Variations
While the classic chocolate crinkle cookie is delicious, you can try variations to suit your taste.
Mint chocolate crinkle cookies: Add a few drops of mint extract to the batter for a refreshing flavor.
Espresso chocolate crinkle cookies: Mix in some instant espresso powder for a richer coffee-flavored cookie.
Peanut butter chocolate crinkle: Add some peanut butter to the dough for a nutty twist. You can also sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for added texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of oil?
A: Yes! While olive oil or avocado oil works best, you can also use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Just make sure the oil is light and does not strongly affect the flavor.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: The cookies should have crinkled tops and set edges. They might look slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for the regular flour. This works well for most recipes, including chocolate crinkle cookies.
Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have the perfect batch of chocolate crinkle cookies to enjoy and share with friends and family! Happy baking!
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In two shallow bowls, place granulated sugar in one bowl and powdered sugar in another for rolling the cookie dough.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and olive or avocado oil. Mix until well combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract to the cocoa mixture and mix until just combined.
- Sprinkle in baking powder, salt, and flour, mixing until everything is incorporated into a stiff dough.
- Roll the dough into 1 1/2 inch balls. If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar followed by powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, until the tops are crinkled and the edges are set.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.