With the holiday season in full swing, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen. Enter my Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies, a simple yet dazzling treat that embodies the spirit of Christmas. These delightful cookies are not only quick and easy to whip up, but they also serve as a vibrant centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Featuring a soft, chewy texture and a charming crackled finish coated in powdered sugar, they’ll impress both your friends and family. Perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, these cookies will make your holiday baking fun and stress-free. Have you ever thought about how a splash of color can elevate your desserts? Let’s dive into the recipe and start creating some holiday magic!
Why Make Festive Crinkle Cookies?
Easy to Prepare: This recipe shines with its simplicity—just mix, chill, and bake for stunning results!
Holiday Cheer: The festive red and green colors instantly uplift any gathering, making them a must-have for your Christmas baking lineup.
Deliciously Soft Texture: Expect wonderfully chewy cookies that are beautifully crackled on the outside, offering a delightful sweet burst in every bite.
Customizable Fun: Feel free to experiment with other colors or flavors, just like with my Pistachio Cream Cookies for other festive occasions.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie platters or as thoughtful gifts, sure to impress friends and family alike!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- White Cake Mix – Provides the delightful base for these colorful crinkle cookies; you can substitute with vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different look.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binding agent to hold everything together; for an egg-free version, use 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg.
- Vegetable Oil – Infuses moisture and richness into the cookies; olive oil or melted coconut oil can be swapped for distinct flavor options.
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for the sweet, crackled appearance; no substitutions are necessary here for that magical finish.
- Red and Green Gel Food Coloring – Gives these cookies their festive hues; consider natural alternatives like beet juice for red and spinach powder for green if you want a healthier option.
Optional Mix-Ins
- Vanilla Extract – A teaspoon can enhance the flavor profile of your cookies; feel free to adjust the amount to taste.
- White Chocolate Chips – For an extra sweet twist, mix in these delightful chips for a fun texture variation!
These delightful Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home, spreading cheer with every colorful bite. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture with a spatula until a smooth, sticky dough forms, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps and everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Divide and Color
Once the dough is mixed, divide it into two equal portions. In one half, add red gel food coloring, and in the other, add green. Mix each portion thoroughly, ensuring the color is evenly distributed, creating vibrant Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies. You’ll want each dough to have a bright, rich hue.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover both portions of dough with plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up, which will make it easier to scoop and roll. This chilling step is essential for achieving that chewy texture when baked.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and develop the perfect crackled tops.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge. Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, generously coat each ball in powdered sugar until fully covered, giving them a snowy appearance. This step enhances the festive look of your Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, until the cookies are crinkled on top and set around the edges. Watch carefully; they should look slightly soft in the center for the ideal texture!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, allowing the cookies to cool for 2-3 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up slightly as they cool, leaving you with deliciously soft Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies ready to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Festive Crinkle Cookies
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Watch the Baking Time: Make sure not to overbake these Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies. The centers should remain soft for the best texture; don’t let them harden too much in the oven.
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough before baking. This helps create a puffier cookie with a lovely crackled top and prevents spreading.
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Use Non-Stick Spray: If you’re worried about sticking, give your baking sheet a light spray of non-stick cooking spray—even with parchment paper or silicone mats for easier release.
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Customize for Flavor: For even more deliciousness, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or some white chocolate chips to elevate the flavor profile.
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Storage Tips: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This keeps the cookies soft and minimizes moisture loss!
How to Store and Freeze Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Freezing Cookies: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Dough Freezing: You can also freeze the colored cookie dough for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking your Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies.
Reheating: If desired, you can warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their fresh-baked taste.
What to Serve with Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies
These cheerful cookies are sure to brighten any holiday gathering—let’s explore the perfect pairings that will make your dessert spread irresistible.
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Hot Cocoa: A warming cup of rich, velvety hot cocoa complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful winter experience. Top with marshmallows for extra fun and joy!
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Christmas Punch: The fruity flavors of a refreshing Christmas punch offer a vibrant contrast to the cookies, making them a perfect festive drink to sip alongside your treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies. A scoop tucked into a cookie will make each bite even more indulgent!
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Fruit Salad: A fresh medley of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and nutrition, breaking up the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing the holiday feel of your table.
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Cheesy Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses and cured meats can offer a savory contrast to the sweet Crinkle Cookies, making for an appealing balance of flavors for your guests.
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Spiked Eggnog: Rich, spiced eggnog can elevate your festive spirit. Its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the chewy cookies, creating a holiday indulgence that’s hard to resist.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Include a platter of classic gingerbread cookies for a thematic touch! The spicy-sweet flavor will cheerfully compliment the festive Crinkle Cookies.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the holiday season with a warm pumpkin spice latte, its warming spices accentuating the sweet, soft flavors of the cookies.
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Shortbread Cookies: For a simple yet delicious addition, buttery shortbread cookies contrast with the textured Crinkle Cookies, creating a lovely dessert trio for holiday gatherings.
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Milk: A classic choice for any cookie, a glass of cold milk completes the festive cookie experience and lets the flavors truly shine.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies and make them your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil and use a dairy-free cake mix to keep them creamy yet light.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
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Chocolate Twist: Incorporate 1/4 cup of cocoa powder into your dough for a chocolaty version; the contrast with the vibrant colors is stunning.
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Spicy Surprise: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice kick that complements the sweet cookie base beautifully.
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Festive Sprinkles: Top with festive sprinkles before baking to enhance the holiday spirit, creating extra delightful bites.
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Flavorful Gel: Try using fruit-flavored gels for coloring; raspberry or lime gels can give a tasty twist along with vibrant colors.
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Mini Cookies: For bite-sized treats, scoop smaller portions of dough and reduce baking time to 7-9 minutes, perfect for sharing!
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Decorative Icing: Drizzle with white icing after the cookies cool for an elegant finish that adds a touch of sweetness. Pair these beautifully decorated cookies with a cup of hot cocoa for a delightful holiday pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the colored dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients, dividing, and coloring as directed. Once prepared, wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain their vibrant colors and prevent drying out. Additionally, if you’re looking for longer storage, freeze the dough for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, scoop, roll in powdered sugar, and bake as instructed for fresh, soft cookies that are just as delightful as if they were made the same day!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! To ensure your cookies have the best flavor and texture, choose fresh large eggs; they should have no cracks and be stored in the refrigerator. For the vegetable oil, opt for a fresh bottle—check the expiration date.
How should I store my Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I often put a slice of bread in the container with them; this helps maintain moisture and keeps the cookies delightfully chewy.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the colored dough! Just wrap each portion firmly in plastic wrap or foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking your Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies.
What should I do if my cookies aren’t spreading or crinkling?
Very! If your cookies aren’t spreading, it might be due to over-chilling the dough. If this happens, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time; they should come out of the oven slightly soft in the center to ensure a good crinkle.
Are there allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains eggs and gluten (from the cake mix), which are common allergens. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using a gluten-free cake mix and substituting eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg. Always check ingredient labels for any potential allergens.
How long can I store baked cookies in the freezer?
The baked Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Just thaw them at room temperature for a bit before enjoying!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Add red gel food coloring to one half, and green to the other. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover both portions of dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop portions of the dough and roll into balls, then coat in powdered sugar.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 9-11 minutes until crinkled on top.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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