Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

When it comes to classic holiday cookies, few desserts are as delightful and visually appealing as Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Their signature cracked tops, dusted with a layer of powdered sugar, are not only a treat for the eyes but also for the taste buds. These cookies are soft, fudgy, and rich in chocolate flavor, making them a perfect addition to any cookie platter or a cozy night in.

The magic of Chocolate Crinkle Cookies lies in their texture. With a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, they deliver a satisfying bite that will leave you craving more. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, yet it yields cookies that are impressive enough for any occasion. Let’s dive into why this recipe is reliable, what you need, and how to make these delicious cookies from scratch.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe is tried and tested, ensuring that you get consistent results every time you bake. The combination of high-quality chocolate and simple ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that is hard to resist. The use of unsweetened chocolate provides depth, while the eggs and sugar contribute to the cookie’s chewy texture. Additionally, the inclusion of baking powder helps achieve that perfect crinkle without compromising the soft center. If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers both flavor and texture, look no further!

Ingredient Checklist

To make these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces 99% unsweetened chocolate, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing the dough and a smaller one for melting the chocolate.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl and incorporating all ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
• Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookie sizes, a cookie scoop is highly recommended.

Method: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate

Start by melting the unsweetened chocolate. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Oil

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and canola or vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the sugar and oil mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chocolate

Pour the melted chocolate into the egg mixture, stirring until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling is crucial for achieving the perfect crinkle.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Shape the Cookies

Scoop the chilled dough using a cookie scoop and roll each ball in your hands to form a smooth round shape. Then, roll the dough balls in confectioners’ sugar until they are generously coated.

Step 10: Bake

Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 11: Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing some ingredients or want to make a few substitutions, consider these easy swaps:

• Unsweetened Chocolate: You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate, but reduce the sugar slightly since it’s sweeter.
• Canola Oil: Any neutral oil like sunflower or grapeseed oil works well.
• Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a slightly different flavor and chewier texture.
• Eggs: For a vegan version, replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Mistakes That Ruin Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

To ensure your Chocolate Crinkle Cookies turn out perfect, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough is essential for obtaining the signature crinkle. Don’t skip this step!
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be soft in the center and set around the edges.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements for the best results.
• Using Low-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate flavor is key; opt for high-quality chocolate for the best taste.

Save It for Later

If you want to save your cookie dough for later, here’s how:

• Freezing Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough balls. Just roll them into balls, coat them in confectioners’ sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Baked cookies can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes! While this recipe calls for unsweetened chocolate, you can use semi-sweet chocolate or even dark chocolate. Just adjust the sugar content accordingly since semi-sweet chocolate is sweeter.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies may result from not chilling the dough or using too much oil. Ensure you measure accurately and chill the dough for the best texture.

What can I do with leftover confectioners’ sugar?

Leftover confectioners’ sugar can be stored in an airtight container for future use. It’s great for dusting on other baked goods or as a sweetener for frosting.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before chilling for added texture and flavor.

Reader Favorites

If you love these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, you might also enjoy these reader favorites:

• Classic Snickerdoodles
• Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
• Soft-Baked Sugar Cookies
• Peanut Butter Blossoms

Make It Tonight

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bake! These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a cozy night at home. With their rich chocolate flavor and delightful texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best Chocolate Crinkle Cookies you’ve ever made!

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and most importantly, savor every bite of your delicious Chocolate Crinkle Cookies!