Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a holiday classic with their soft, chewy centers and beautifully cracked, powdered sugar-coated exteriors. These cookies are a must-have on any holiday cookie platter and are as fun to make as they are delicious to eat. With a rich chocolate flavor and a festive appearance, they’re sure to be a hit at your Christmas celebrations!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 🍫 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 🍚 2 cups granulated sugar
- 🧈 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 🥚 4 large eggs
- 🍦 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 🌾 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🥄 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Coating:
- 🍚 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the cocoa powder, sugar, and vegetable oil until combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a sticky dough forms. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place powdered sugar in a small bowl.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Coat each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Bake:
- Arrange the powdered dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies have spread and the tops are crackled. The centers should remain soft.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Generous Coating: Roll the dough balls thickly in powdered sugar to achieve the signature crinkle look.
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract or espresso powder for a festive twist.