Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a classic treat that every chocolate lover will adore. With a rich, fudgy center, crisp edges, and a beautiful powdered sugar crackle, these cookies are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a cozy afternoon at home. This easy chocolate crinkle cookie recipe uses pantry staples, melted chocolate, and cocoa powder to create soft, chewy cookies with an indulgent chocolate flavor.
If you’ve been searching for the best chocolate crinkle cookie recipe that’s both simple and delicious, you’re in the right place. Follow this step-by-step guide to make cookies that are perfectly cracked, sweet, and irresistibly chocolaty.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These cookies have a lot to offer, making them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels:
- Fudgy and Soft: The centers stay soft and gooey, giving each bite that rich, chocolatey satisfaction.
- Crackled and Beautiful: Rolling in both granulated and powdered sugar creates that iconic crinkle pattern.
- Easy to Make: Using melted chocolate and simple ingredients, you can whip these cookies up without any complicated steps.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday cookie tray or a sweet treat for the family, these cookies always impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup salted butter, cubed
- 6 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup powdered sugar
These simple ingredients come together to create rich, fudgy cookies with a beautifully crackled surface.
How to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
Place the chopped chocolate and cubed butter in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until fully melted and smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and eliminates lumps for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and smooth. Add the melted chocolate mixture and blend until combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Using the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the chocolate mixture and mix just until combined, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours and up to 4 hours. Chilling prevents spreading and ensures perfect cracks.
Step 6: Shape and Roll the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place 1 cup granulated sugar in one shallow bowl and 1 cup powdered sugar in another. Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough, roll them first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar to coat completely.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the coated dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the tops are cracked and edges are firm. Allow cookies to cool 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the dough: This step is essential for cookies that hold their shape and crack beautifully.
- Don’t overbake: The centers should remain soft and fudgy.
- Double coat in sugar: Granulated sugar first, powdered sugar second, for the signature crinkle effect.
- Add flavors: Peppermint or orange extract can add a festive twist.
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Variations You Can Try
- Mocha Chocolate Crinkles: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a coffee-infused flavor.
- Peppermint Crinkles: Stir in 1 teaspoon peppermint extract for a holiday treat.
- Double Chocolate: Fold in mini chocolate chips for extra chocolaty bites.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 4 hours or overnight. Chilling ensures perfect cookies with crinkled tops.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will make the cookies richer and slightly more intense in flavor.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough and avoid warm kitchen conditions. Use parchment-lined baking sheets for even baking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
