Chocolate crinkle cookies are a holiday classic. They have a fudgy centre, crispy edge, and are covered with powdered sugar. This recipe is simple and delicious, it’s ideal for Christmas, and it’s a tradition for many!

Published: November 26, 2024 by Pamela
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Understanding the Ingredients
- Cocoa Powder: The star ingredient! Cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor and creates that deep, dark color. Invest in good quality cocoa powder, trust mu you will taste the difference.
- Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise, creating those signature cracks on the surface as they bake.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create the soft, tender texture of the cookies. As always, use unsalted butter to have control over how much salt is added in a recipe.
- Vanilla: Yes, these are chocolate cookies, but vanilla adds warmth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Common Questions I Get Asked:
- Do I really need to chill the dough?
Absolutely! Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies hold their shape in the oven. - Can I use a substitute for cocoa powder?
For the best flavor and texture, stick with cocoa powder. However, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer flavor. - Why roll the cookies in powdered sugar?
The powdered sugar creates the snowy effect as the cookies bake and expand, forming those beautiful cracks. - How can I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, just thaw before serving. - How do I know when they’re done?
The edges should look set, but the centers may still appear slightly soft, that’s how you get that fudgy texture.
If you tried this recipe, be sure to leave a rating and share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear your feedback!

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate crinkle cookies are a holiday classic! Fudgy inside, a bit crisp on the outside, and coated in powdered sugar. They're easy, delicious, and perfect for Christmas!
Ingredients
- 2 Cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Cup cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- Pinch salt
- ⅓ Cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ Cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ Cup powdered sugar (For dipping)
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, one-third at a time, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the dough, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Scoop out 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll into balls, and coat generously in powdered sugar.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking tray, spacing them out slightly. Gently press each ball down a bit if desired. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the tray before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Video
Notes
- Nutrition info is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. For the most accurate details, consider using a nutrition tool or checking our full Nutrition Information Disclaimer.
Nutrition
Calories: 273kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Tips to Make the Best Chocolate Crinkle Cookies:
- Sift Dry Ingredients
- Sifting the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder removes lumps and helps combine the dry ingredients evenly, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time
- Chilling the dough is crucial! It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps create those beautiful crinkles.
- Roll Generously in Powdered Sugar
- Make sure the dough balls are thoroughly coated in powdered sugar. A thick coating ensures the signature cracked appearance.
- Use Quality Ingredients
- I mentioned this earlier, and I’ll say it again: use the best cocoa powder you know!
Leave a Reply