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As I sifted through the cheerful chaos of holiday decorations, a memory flickered back: the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through my childhood home. That same nostalgia draws me to these Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies, a vibrant delight that perfectly captures the essence of the season! Not only are these festive treats a breeze to whip up, making them ideal for even the busiest of bakers, but they also boast a chewy texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply looking to brighten your day, these eye-catching cookies will surely steal the spotlight. Curious about how to create this magical moment in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Why are these crinkle cookies a must-try?
Vibrant Colors: The red and green hues bring holiday cheer to any table, making them a perfect addition to your festive spread.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, even novice bakers can impress family and friends.
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Chewy Delight: Each cookie has a soft, chewy center that contrasts beautifully with its crackled, powdered sugar exterior—a delightful treat for your taste buds!
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are not just tasty; they are an impressive showstopper for holiday gatherings and make wonderful gifts for neighbors.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors or add-ins like white chocolate chips for a unique twist, making this recipe your own.
Get ready to enjoy these delectable Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies; they are bound to become a household favorite, just like the delicious Marshmallow Swirl Cookies!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- White cake mix – This is the secret to soft and sweet cookies; you can use vanilla or yellow cake mix too, but colors may differ.
- Large eggs – These bind the ingredients and add moisture; for an egg-free version, substitute each egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Vegetable oil – Adds necessary fat for moisture; olive oil or melted coconut oil can also add subtle flavor changes.
For the Coating
- Powdered sugar – Essential for that crinkled, sugary top; rolling the cookie balls generously will ensure they’re evenly coated.
For the Festive Colors
- Red and green gel food coloring – Creates the vibrant festive aesthetic; consider natural alternatives like beet juice for red and spinach powder for green.
These Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies will not only brighten your holiday table but will also fill your heart with joy as you share them with loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine one package of white cake mix, two large eggs, and a ⅓ cup of vegetable oil. Use a spatula to blend the ingredients until a smooth, thick dough forms, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps, and the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 2: Divide and Color the Dough
Once your dough is ready, divide it evenly into two portions. In one portion, add red gel food coloring and mix until you achieve the desired vibrancy. In the other portion, do the same with green gel food coloring. Aim for a bright, festive color, blending well until every bit of dough is colored throughout.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover both portions of dough tightly with plastic wrap or wax paper and place them in the refrigerator. Let the dough chill for about 30 minutes; this step is crucial to help the cookies maintain their shape during baking. While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Balls
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon, scoop a portion of the red dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Repeat this process with the green dough, forming evenly sized balls that are about one inch in diameter. The vibrant colors will instantly brighten your kitchen!
Step 5: Coat the Dough Balls
Next, pour powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll the red and green dough balls generously in the powdered sugar, ensuring each one is fully coated. This sugary layer not only enhances the cookie’s appearance but also creates that delightful crunchy exterior when baked.
Step 6: Arrange and Bake
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they have a crinkled surface and the edges begin to set. The centers should look slightly soft yet firm to the touch, giving a hint of their wonderfully chewy texture.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheet for about 2-3 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack using a spatula to cool completely. Their beautiful colors and delightful crackles will be a joyous sight!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients, divide, and color the dough as instructed. After that, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to a month—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls, coat with powdered sugar, and bake as directed for that freshly baked taste everyone loves! By prepping the dough ahead, you’ll enjoy delightful, homemade cookies without the last-minute stress.
What to Serve with Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies is just the beginning—let’s explore the perfect pairings to elevate your holiday experience!
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Cozy Hot Cocoa: This rich and creamy drink enhances the sweetness of the cookies and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
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Peppermint Tea: The refreshing mint flavor compliments the festive spirit of the cookies while providing a calming balance.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream atop a warm cookie creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors for a delightful treat.
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Sparkling Cider: This fizzy drink adds a celebratory touch, making it perfect for festive gatherings and joyous occasions.
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Festive Fruit Platter: An assortment of strawberries, kiwi, and citrus fruits brings a refreshing, tart element that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate adds a fantastic texture that harmonizes perfectly with the chewy cookies.
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Holiday Spice Cake: The warm, spiced flavors of a traditional holiday cake pair wonderfully with the cookies, creating a comforting dessert experience.
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Nutty Shortbread Cookies: These buttery bites add a delightful crunch alongside your soft, chewy crinkle cookies, enhancing the overall cookie platter.
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Eggnog: A classic festive drink, rich and creamy eggnog complements the sugary delights, bringing a nostalgic touch to your holiday spread.
How to Store and Freeze Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for a slightly longer shelf life, up to 10 days, but they may lose some freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Dough Storage: You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Variations
Customize your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies for an even more delightful experience in the kitchen!
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Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute with dairy-free chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warming surprise in every bite. The subtle heat will complement the sweetness beautifully!
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch. The added texture pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy interior.
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Chocolate-Chip Twist: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of richness. This variation combines the festive colors with the beloved taste of chocolate!
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Citrus Zing: Grate in some orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the cookies’ flavor profile.
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Gourmet Touch: Swirl in a bit of marzipan or almond paste into the dough for a sophisticated flavor combination. The unique taste will surprise and delight everyone!
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Colorful Options: Experiment with other gel food colors like blue or yellow, or use sprinkles for an even more festive look. The rainbow of colors will be a hit with kids and adults alike!
These variations ensure your cookies are as unique as your holiday celebrations! If you’re interested in more sweet treats, why not try the delightful Cosmic Brownie Cookies?
Expert Tips for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Make sure to refrigerate the colored dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be crinkled and soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
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Generous Coating: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar coating. Rolling the dough balls well ensures a beautiful crackled appearance after baking.
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Flavor Upgrade: For added flavor, consider mixing in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or even white chocolate chips to your dough!
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Swap Ingredients: Feel free to use vanilla or yellow cake mix if you prefer different flavors; just remember this may affect the vibrant colors of your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
When selecting ingredients, particularly the eggs, choose large, fresh eggs as they bind the dough and add moisture. Check the expiration date on the carton to ensure freshness. For vegetable oil, opt for a light-colored oil that has a neutral flavor, such as canola or grapeseed, which blends seamlessly into the cookie batter.
How should I store my Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can place a slice of bread inside the container; this helps maintain moisture, keeping the cookies soft and delicious.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze the unbaked dough, scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer for about an hour. Once firm, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then roll in powdered sugar and bake as directed.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to a few factors, such as insufficient refrigeration time or not enough flour. For the perfect texture, ensure you chill the dough for the full 30 minutes, and consider checking the consistency of your dough; it should be thick and hold its shape when rolled.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes, if you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, remember to check for gluten in the cake mix; opt for a gluten-free cake mix if necessary. You can also substitute the eggs using a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for an egg-free version. Always double-check the labels on your powdered sugar and food coloring to ensure they meet any dietary restrictions.
How long can I store baked cookies in the fridge?
In the fridge, baked cookies can last up to 10 days. However, the texture may slightly change as refrigeration can sometimes dry out baked goods. For the best taste, enjoy them fresh for that delightful chewy texture!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies for a Joyful Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine one package of white cake mix, two large eggs, and a ⅓ cup of vegetable oil. Mix until a smooth, thick dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Color one portion with red gel food coloring and the other with green gel food coloring.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to maintain shape during baking.
- Scoop the dough and roll into balls about one inch in diameter, alternating between red and green.
- Roll the dough balls in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 9 to 11 minutes.
- Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
