Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate crinkle cookies are a holiday classic with their soft, fudgy centers and a beautiful crinkled appearance coated in powdered sugar. They are perfect for gift-giving or holiday parties, offering a delightful burst of chocolate in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cocoa mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. The dough will be thick.
   • Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to help the cookies maintain their shape and achieve the signature crinkle effect.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough.
   • Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   • Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cookies are puffed and the edges are set. The centers should still be soft.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding chilling time)
• Chill Time: At least 4 hours or overnight
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Mint Crinkle Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a minty twist.
• White Chocolate Crinkles: Substitute white chocolate chips for half of the cocoa powder for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty Crinkles: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the dough for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Why do I need to chill the dough? Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and ensures they crinkle properly during baking.
2. Can I skip the refrigeration step? Skipping refrigeration can result in cookies that spread more and may not achieve the desired crinkle effect.
3. What if I don’t have vegetable oil? You can use melted butter or another neutral oil as a substitute.
4. Can I use dark cocoa powder? Yes, dark cocoa powder will give the cookies a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
5. How can I ensure the cookies bake evenly? Make sure to space the cookies evenly on the baking sheet and rotate the sheets halfway through baking if needed.
6. My cookies didn’t crinkle. What went wrong? The dough might not have been chilled long enough, or the baking powder may not have been active.
7. Can I use a different type of sugar for coating? Granulated sugar can be used, but powdered sugar is traditional for the crinkled look.
8. How do I store cookies if I’m giving them as gifts? Place cookies in an airtight container and keep them in a cool, dry place. For added presentation, pack them in decorative tins or boxes.
9. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to bake in batches depending on your oven size.
10. What is the best way to freeze these cookies? Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Conclusion

Chocolate crinkle cookies are a timeless treat that never fails to impress with their rich chocolate flavor and classic crinkled appearance. Perfect for any holiday or special occasion, these cookies are easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful confections!

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