Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe
These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are rich, fudgy, and coated in a beautiful layer of powdered sugar that creates their signature crackled appearance. With soft brownie-like centers and crisp sugary exteriors, they're one of the most beloved holiday cookies ever made.
Whether you're baking for Christmas, cookie exchanges, or year-round chocolate cravings, these cookies always impress.
The Origins of Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies became popular in America during the mid-20th century and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful holiday cookies.
Their signature appearance comes from rolling chocolate dough in powdered sugar before baking. As the cookies expand in the oven, dramatic cracks form, creating a striking contrast between the dark chocolate cookie and bright white sugar coating.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
Rich chocolate flavor
Fudgy brownie-like centers
Beautiful crackled tops
Perfect holiday cookie
Freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Cookies
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
For Rolling
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl combine:
Cocoa powder
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Mix until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time.
Stir in vanilla.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Whisk together:
Flour
Baking powder
Salt
Gradually add to wet ingredients.
Mix until a thick dough forms.
Step 3: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
Roll first in granulated sugar.
Then coat heavily in powdered sugar.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes.
The cookies should spread and develop dramatic cracks.
Step 6: Cool
Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
What to Serve With Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Hot Chocolate
Coffee
Milk
Peppermint Mocha
Vanilla Ice Cream
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to chill the dough?
The dough is very soft and chilling helps create the signature crinkle effect.
Why roll in both sugars?
The granulated sugar helps prevent the powdered sugar from dissolving.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Freeze dough balls before rolling in sugar.
More Cookie Recipes You'll Love
Double Chocolate Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies
Snickerdoodles
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Birthday Cake Cookies
Red Velvet Cookies
Sugar Cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are rich, fudgy, and absolutely stunning. Their crackled powdered sugar coating makes them one of the most beautiful cookies you'll ever add to your recipe collection.