Festive Chocolate Crinkles

There’s something magical about the holiday season, and when I think of it, I can’t help but reminisce about the warmth of my kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. One of my absolute favorites to whip up are Festive Chocolate Crinkles. These delightful treats are not just cookies; they are a symbol of joy, family gatherings, and cherished memories. Each bite combines a rich chocolate flavor with a soft center and a crackly powdered sugar coating, making them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert table.

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself reaching for my trusty mixing bowl, ready to create these beauties. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering with friends and family, Festive Chocolate Crinkles never fail to bring smiles and compliments. They are simple to make, yet the results are stunning. I often prepare a batch to share with neighbors, and it’s always heartwarming to see their faces light up with delight as they take their first bite.

Making these cookies feels like a ritual for me. I love the anticipation as the dough chills, and the excitement that builds as I roll them in sugar. Watching them bake and transform into beautiful crinkled cookies is a sight to behold. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations, I invite you to dive into this recipe with me. Let’s create some magic together with Festive Chocolate Crinkles.

What to Gather for Festive Chocolate Crinkles

The ingredients for Festive Chocolate Crinkles play a vital role in creating that perfect flavor and texture. Each component complements the others beautifully, leading to a cookie that’s rich, chewy, and bursting with chocolate goodness. From the semisweet chocolate that provides depth to the powdered sugar that gives them their signature look, these ingredients work in harmony to create a holiday favorite.

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped, melted and cooled – This serves as the base and provides a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 ¼ cups flour – The backbone of the cookie, providing structure without being too dense.
• ½ cup Dutch cocoa powder – Adds a deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful rich color.
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor, making it even richer.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them that perfect texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 8 tablespoons butter, at room temperature – Adds richness and helps create that chewy texture.
• 1 ⅓ cups brown sugar – For sweetness and moisture, which creates a chewy cookie.
• 2 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and helps with rising.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Adds a classic flavor that complements the chocolate.
• ⅓ cup milk – Helps achieve the right consistency for the dough.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling – Gives the cookies their signature crinkly look and sweetness.
• Granulated sugar, for rolling – Provides a bit of crunch and sweetness to the exterior.

Making Festive Chocolate Crinkles

Making Festive Chocolate Crinkles is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Follow these steps closely to ensure your cookies turn out perfect.

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This step is crucial for ensuring even baking. While that’s heating up, prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, Dutch cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps to distribute all dry ingredients evenly, ensuring consistency in flavor and texture.
3. In the bowl of your electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This is where you start to develop that wonderful creamy texture.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla and blend until combined. You should notice a luscious batter starting to form.
5. Carefully pour in the melted chocolate, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. This chocolatey goodness will give your cookies a rich flavor profile.
6. With the mixer still on low, alternate adding the dry mixture and milk. Start and end with the dry mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a nice, thick dough.
7. Transfer the dough onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Fold the edges over to cover it completely and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape when baking.
8. After the chilling time, scoop out tablespoonfuls of dough. Since the dough is sticky, using a cookie scoop or two spoons can make this easier. Roll the dough into balls using your hands.
9. If the dough is too sticky to handle, pop those dough balls in the freezer for a few minutes. This little trick makes them easier to roll.
10. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives them that beautiful crinkled look.
11. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This ensures they have enough room to spread while baking.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. They should flatten out and the sugar coating will crack slightly when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
13. Once they are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Helpful Hints

To ensure your Festive Chocolate Crinkles turn out perfectly, here are some helpful hints!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and roll into balls, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa, making them perfect for a cozy evening treat.
• Serving: For a festive touch, serve these cookies alongside a platter of seasonal desserts to impress your guests.
• Rolling Technique: Roll the cookies in both granulated sugar and powdered sugar for that perfect sweet crunch and visual appeal.

What to Serve Alongside Festive Chocolate Crinkles

When it comes to serving Festive Chocolate Crinkles, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful pairings to consider:

• Hot Beverages: These cookies are heavenly with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. The rich chocolate flavor complements the warmth of your drink.
• With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream between two cookies for a delicious dessert treat.
• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits such as strawberries or raspberries can add a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
• Holiday Dessert Table: Make them part of a larger dessert spread during family gatherings or holiday parties. They’ll stand out among other treats!
• Gift Idea: Package them in a decorative tin or box to give as gifts. They make a thoughtful present during the holiday season.
• Seasonal Snacks: These cookies are not just for the holidays; serve them during birthday parties or any celebratory occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Festive Chocolate Crinkles are a delightful treat that encapsulates the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Their rich chocolate flavor and unique texture are sure to please everyone, making them a must-try. I encourage you to whip up a batch and share them with your loved ones; they will certainly become a favorite in your home!

Festive Chocolate Crinkles

The ultimate comfort food for the holidays! Festive Chocolate Crinkles are rich, chewy cookies coated in powdered sugar that bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Perfect for sharing, these easy-to-make treats will become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Electric Mixer
• Mixing Bowl
• Parchment Paper

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces Semisweet Chocolate
• 1 ¼ cups Flour
• ½ cup Dutch Cocoa Powder
• 1 teaspoon Espresso Powder
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• 8 tablespoons Butter
• 1 ⅓ cups Brown Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla
• ⅓ cup Milk
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• Granulated Sugar

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
• Whisk together flour, Dutch cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
• In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time and then add vanilla, mixing until well combined.
• Pour in the melted chocolate and mix on low speed until incorporated.
• Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk until just combined.
• Transfer dough onto plastic wrap, cover, and chill for at least 2 hours.
• Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls. If sticky, freeze briefly.
• Roll each ball in granulated sugar and then powdered sugar.
• Place cookies on a baking sheet, 2 inches apart, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
• Let cool on a wire rack after baking.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk.
• Serving: Serve alongside a platter of seasonal desserts.
• Rolling Technique: Roll in both sugars for visual appeal.

Keyword Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, chocolate desserts, Festive Cookies, holiday treats

Previous PostStrawberry Tiramisu

Next Post Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.