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With the holiday season in full swing, there’s something magical about baking that brings warmth to our homes. Enter my Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies—these vibrant treats are a feast for the eyes and a perfect way to spread cheer. Made with simple white cake mix, this easy recipe is not just about good looks; it delivers a wonderfully soft and chewy texture that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, the quick prep time makes it easy to whip up a batch. Plus, they’re an irresistible crowd-pleaser that can effortlessly brighten any holiday gathering. Ready to make your dessert table sparkle?
Why Are These Cookies So Fun?
Visual Appeal: The festive red and green colors make these cookies a standout on any holiday dessert table.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create these cushiony delights.
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Chewy & Delicious: Expect a mouthwatering soft center with a delightful crackled finish, reminiscent of your favorite brownies.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cake mixes and colors to match your holiday theme.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at family gatherings or holiday parties, these cookies spread joy and cheer, making them a must-have treat. Pair them with a cozy mug of hot cocoa for a delightful experience!
Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- White Cake Mix – Provides structure and sweetness; feel free to substitute with vanilla or yellow cake mix for unique flavors.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; for an egg-free version, use 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; olive oil or melted coconut oil can give a different taste.
For the Coating
- Powdered Sugar – This sweet coating creates a beautiful finish; no direct substitutes suggested for that perfect look.
For the Colors
- Red Gel Food Coloring – Gives striking vibrancy to the dough; natural alternatives like beet juice can also be used.
- Green Gel Food Coloring – Adds a festive hue; consider spinach powder for a more natural option.
These Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are not just a sight to behold but a delightful treat everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Use a spatula or mixer to blend until a smooth, thick dough forms, approximately 2–3 minutes. The mixture should be well combined without any dry streaks. Once ready, set the dough aside for the coloring process.
Step 2: Color the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions. In one portion, add a few drops of red gel food coloring, and in the other, add the green gel food coloring. Using your hands or a spatula, mix each portion until the colors are vibrant and uniform, which will take about 1–2 minutes. The festive colors will make your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies truly eye-catching!
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover both colored dough portions with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial as it helps firm up the dough, allowing for better handling and a crinkled texture once baked. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
While the dough chills, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. The parchment will also provide a light surface for the cookies. Once the dough is firm, remove it from the refrigerator, ready for shaping the cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out equal amounts of both the red and green dough, rolling them into balls. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter for each ball. Once shaped, generously coat each ball with powdered sugar, ensuring they’re fully covered, which creates that delightful crinkle effect during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes, watching closely until they puff up and form crinkles on the surface. They should be soft in the center when done, so avoid overbaking for the chewy texture of your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling helps set their shape while keeping the centers delightfully soft. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the rack for the best texture before serving.
Expert Tips for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Make sure to refrigerate your colored dough for at least 30 minutes. This step is vital for achieving the perfect texture and that sought-after crinkle effect.
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Check Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies; they should be soft in the center for the ideal chewy texture.
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Coating Generously: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar coating! It’s crucial for creating that beautiful, crackled look and adds an extra touch of sweetness to your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
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Color Mixing Tips: When coloring the dough, gradually add food coloring until you reach the desired vibrancy. It’s better to start with less and add more than to overpower the sweetness.
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Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them maintain their shape while keeping the centers chewy and delicious.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute eggs with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg, and use plant-based oil for moisture.
- Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for a fragrant twist that enhances the cookie’s overall flavor.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Top with holiday-themed sprinkles after the powdered sugar coating for an extra festive touch that adds color and crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap out half of the cake mix for unsweetened cocoa powder to give a chocolate twist to your festive treats. They’ll still be vibrant but with a delicious cocoa flavor!
- Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Holiday Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor that makes every bite feel like a holiday celebration.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat element that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies.
- Natural Colors: If you prefer natural coloring, use beet juice for red and spinach powder for green, giving your cookies vibrant color without artificial ingredients.
For even more cookie inspiration, consider trying our delicious Marshmallow Swirl Cookies, which are a delightful twist to share during the festive season!
What to Serve with Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies
Let the joyful flavors of your holiday celebration shine with a supporting cast that complements these vibrant cookies!
- Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of rich hot cocoa enhances the sweetness and creates a cozy experience with each cookie bite.
- Peppermint Ice Cream: Creamy and refreshing, peppermint ice cream adds a minty twist, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Milk: A classic pairing, the soothing creaminess of milk helps mellow the sugary coatings while enhancing the cookie’s soft texture.
- Coffee: Brewed with a hint of vanilla or hazelnut, coffee offers a comforting contrast to the festive flavors and adds depth to dessert time.
Experience a delightful contrast when pairing these cookies with a tart Cranberry Sauce. Its citrusy notes bring brightness to every nibble while celebrating the season.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, kiwi, and grapes, adds a refreshing and light touch, balancing the richness of the cookies.
- Gingerbread Men: Embrace the festive spirit by serving alongside gingerbread men for a delightful variety of holiday flavors and textures while keeping your table merry and bright.
How to Store and Freeze Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they’re well-wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Raw Dough: You can also freeze the colored dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to bake your Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by coloring and rolling the dough into balls, then refrigerating them. Just make sure to coat each ball generously with powdered sugar before placing them in an airtight container to maintain their shape and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge—no need to thaw! You’ll have freshly baked cookies that are just as delightful and festive without the last-minute rush.
Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture, use fresh large eggs; they should be at room temperature to help the dough bind better. When selecting cake mixes, check the expiration date, and choose one with a vibrant color for better results. The vegetable oil should be fresh, as this can greatly impact the moisture of your cookies.
How should I store my Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For added softness, throw in a slice of bread—it works like magic! If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze the Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies?
Very! You can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, let them cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge! If you choose to freeze the dough, shape the colored portions into balls, wrap them tightly, and freeze, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What are some troubleshooting tips if the cookies don’t crinkle or are dry?
If your cookies don’t have that delightful crinkle or are dry, it may be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and remove them just before they set completely—soft centers are key! Additionally, ensure that your dough was properly chilled; this is crucial for achieving the right texture and crinkle effect. Don’t hesitate to try rolling the dough balls more generously in powdered sugar for that classic look.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! For those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions, you can substitute each egg with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water. This works beautifully to bind the ingredients. Additionally, if you’re using colored gel food coloring, check that they meet your dietary needs or opt for natural alternatives like beet juice for red and spinach powder for green.
Colorful Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies That Dazzle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Blend until a smooth, thick dough forms, about 2–3 minutes.
- Divide the dough into two portions. In one, add red gel food coloring; in the other, add green gel food coloring. Mix until vibrant and uniform.
- Cover both portions and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop equal amounts of red and green dough, roll into balls about 1 inch in diameter, and coat generously with powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart, and bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
