Chocolate crinkle cookies are soft, fudgy cookies with a rich chocolate flavor and a signature crackled powdered-sugar coating. They bake up with a brownie-like center and a slightly crisp exterior. These classic cookies are simple to make and perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you’re craving a chocolate treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1⁄2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1⁄4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the wet ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil. Mix until the mixture becomes thick, smooth, and evenly combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is fully blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms. The dough should be thick and brownie-like.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours. Chilling is essential because it helps the dough firm up, which creates the crinkle effect during baking.
- When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the powdered sugar into a small bowl.
- Scoop out small portions of the chilled dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Roll each dough ball generously in the powdered sugar, making sure it is fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one because they will spread.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cookies will puff up and crack on the surface but remain soft inside.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve once cooled. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them soft and chewy.
