1. Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate for chocolate crinkle cookies?

Yes, you can! Cocoa powder is actually the traditional choice for chocolate crinkle cookies. It gives the cookies that deep chocolate flavor without the need for melted chocolate. Just make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.

2. How do I make chocolate crinkle cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 substitute that includes xanthan gum, which helps provide structure. Be sure to check the other ingredients as well to ensure they are gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze chocolate crinkle cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a great way to prep ahead. After scooping the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to bake, just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time. You'll have fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes!

4. Why aren't my chocolate crinkle cookies cracking?

If your cookies aren’t cracking, it’s usually because the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or there wasn’t enough powdered sugar coating on the dough balls. Be sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, and coat the dough generously with powdered sugar before baking. A thicker coating of sugar will help create those signature cracks.

5. How can I make my chocolate crinkle cookies extra fudgy?

For extra fudginess, you can reduce the amount of flour slightly (about 1/4 cup less). You could also add a little extra melted chocolate to the dough or increase the amount of cocoa powder to intensify the flavor and create a more decadent texture.

Perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Name: Perfect Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Description

These soft, fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies are rolled in powdered sugar before baking, giving them their signature crackled top. A nostalgic holiday favorite but let’s be honest, they’re perfect any time of year!

Ingredients

SCALE

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and oil.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.
Cover and chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and generously coat with powdered sugar.
Place balls 2 inches apart on the sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until crinkled on top.
Let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!

Notes

Chill the dough to help with shaping and cracking.
For extra fudgy texture, reduce flour by ¼ cup.
Don’t skip the powdered sugar it’s key for the crinkle effect!
Try adding espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 12
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 110
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 55 mg
Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 1 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: chocolate crinkle cookies, holiday cookies, powdered sugar cookies, crinkle cookies, fudgy cookies