Save Classic chocolate crinkle cookies with a rich, fudgy center and a crackled powdered sugar coating&emdash;perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a chocolate treat.
This classic recipe has been my go-to for holiday baking because everyone loves the soft texture and intense chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil, 2 large eggs room temperature, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- For Coating: 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat the sugar and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 3:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. The dough will be sticky.
- Step 4:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) until firm.
- Step 5:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 6:
- Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar to coat.
- Step 7:
- Place the coated dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the tops are crackled but the centers are still soft.
- Step 9:
- Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save These cookies always bring my family together during the holidays for warm conversations and sweet memories.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Perfect with a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, plastic wrap, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs and wheat (gluten). May contain traces of nuts, dairy, or soy depending on ingredient brands. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Save Enjoy these cookies fresh and soft for the best experience every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the crackled sugar coating?
Rolling chilled dough balls thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking creates the trademark crackled appearance as the cookies expand.
- → Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling firms the dough, preventing excessive spreading during baking and helping form soft centers with crackled tops.
- → What is the ideal baking time for soft centers?
Baking for 10-12 minutes allows the tops to crack while keeping the centers tender and fudgy without dryness.
- → Can I add extra flavors to these cookies?
A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder enhances depth, complementing the rich chocolate notes without overpowering.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain softness and freshness.