Classic Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
If you’re looking for a timeless holiday cookie, these classic chocolate crinkle cookies are a must-bake. With their crackled powdered sugar tops and rich, fudgy centers, these chocolate crinkle cookies are everything you want in a classic dessert, simple, nostalgic, and completely irresistible. Perfect for holiday cookie swaps, baking with kids, or adding to your festive dessert spread, this recipe delivers big chocolate flavor with minimal effort.
Why you’ll love them: These cookies are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and always a crowd favorite.
Why These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Work
The secret to great classic chocolate crinkle cookies is the contrast in texture. A soft, brownie-like interior paired with a crisp, sugar-dusted exterior creates that signature crinkle look and deep chocolate flavor. Chilling the dough ensures the cookies bake up thick and crackle beautifully in the oven.
Chef Tips
- Chill the dough for at least 4 hours to prevent spreading and create defined crinkles.
- Use two sugars when coating, granulated sugar first, then powdered sugar, for better contrast and texture.
- Don’t overbake; the centers should look slightly underdone for a fudgy interior.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor.
- Bake one tray at a time for even heat and consistent results.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
These chocolate crinkle cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The dough also freezes beautifully, simply thaw, roll, and bake when ready.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor
- Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the dough for a festive holiday twist
- Roll in flavored powdered sugar (vanilla or cinnamon)
Perfect for Baking with Kids
This holiday cookie recipe is ideal for baking with kids. Rolling the dough in sugar is hands-on, fun, and a great way to get little helpers involved in the kitchen, perfect for creating holiday memories.
Serving Suggestions
- Add to a holiday cookie platter
- Serve with hot cocoa or coffee
- Package as edible gifts for friends and neighbors
Classic Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1½ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chip morsels
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside until ready to use.
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, or in the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugars on medium speed until fully creamed (about 3-4 minutes). Beat in egg, and vanilla. Scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula and continue to mix until fully combined. Slowly add in the dry ingredients. Add chocolate chips and mix with a rubber spatula. Cover dough with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Remove cookie dough from the refrigerator and allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350º F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into one-inch balls. Gently roll in the remaining granulated sugar and then generously coat each ball in confectioners' sugar before placing onto prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Cool cookies for 2 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!