Chocolate crinkle cookies are a magical treat that embodies the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor, a delightful chewy texture, and a beautiful powdered sugar coating. Imagine biting into one of these cookies and experiencing an explosion of chocolatey goodness that melts in your mouth. The contrast between the soft center and the slightly crisp exterior is simply irresistible, making this an ideal recipe to have on hand for any occasion.
I fondly remember the first time I baked these irresistible chocolate crinkle cookies. My kitchen transformed into a mini chocolate factory, with flour dust dancing in the air like snowflakes. The aroma wafting through my home was enough to lure my family from their various hiding spots, creating an impromptu cookie tasting party filled with laughter and delight.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The irresistible chocolate crinkle cookies are quick to whip up, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings
- Their rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with coffee or milk, making them an excellent snack any time of day
- The snowy powdered sugar coating gives them a festive look, making them ideal for holiday gatherings
- Plus, they freeze well for future indulgence!
I once made these cookies for a family gathering, and the plate was empty within minutes—everyone wanted more! For more inspiration, check out this more dessert ideas recipe.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for a better texture; it helps achieve that perfect chewy consistency.
- Cocoa Powder: Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the deep chocolate flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is essential; it sweetens the dough and aids in creating that lovely crinkle effect.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor to these cookies.
- Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise slightly while maintaining their chewy texture. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all flavors; don’t skip this step!
- Vegetable Oil: Using oil instead of butter makes these cookies extra moist and tender.
- Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together and provide richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to every bite; it’s worth using the real stuff!
- Powdered Sugar: This is crucial for rolling the dough balls before baking for that classic crinkled look.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Kitchen: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
Create a Sweet Mixture: In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and brown sugar with vegetable oil until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. The dough should be thick yet sticky—perfectly indulgent!
Chill Your Dough (Optional): For extra chewy cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. It helps with rolling later!
Dollop and Roll!: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated before placing them on your baking sheet.
Bake Until Perfectly Crinkled!: Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they look set but still soft in centers. Allow cooling on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Now you have perfectly irresistible chocolate crinkle cookies ready to delight everyone around you!
You Must Know
- Baking chocolate crinkle cookies requires precise timing for that perfect chewy texture
- Remember, the joy is in the cracks—don’t skip the powdered sugar coating!
- The delightful aroma will have everyone flocking to your kitchen, eager for a taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by mixing your dry ingredients first. Then, cream butter and sugar before gradually adding eggs and vanilla. Fold in chocolate, then chill dough to prevent spreading while baking.

Add Your Touch
Consider swapping regular cocoa with dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer flavor. You can also mix in chopped nuts or peppermint chips for a festive twist.
Storing & Reheating
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To rejuvenate them, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Chill your dough properly to maintain shape while baking; this prevents flat cookies
- Use high-quality chocolate for better flavor and texture, making each bite memorable
- Don’t skimp on powdered sugar—it’s what gives those cute crinkles their charm!
Baking these irresistible chocolate crinkle cookies has become a family tradition. My niece once declared them “better than cake,” which led to her becoming my official taste tester!

FAQ
What makes chocolate crinkle cookies different from regular cookies?
The distinctive cracked appearance comes from rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking.
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
While you can use white chocolate, it will change the cookie’s flavor significantly.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
They should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center when done.
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Chocolate crinkle cookies are a delectable treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with a chewy texture, topped off with a snowy powdered sugar coating. These cookies create an irresistible contrast between their soft centers and slightly crisp edges, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with coffee or milk, these quick-to-make cookies will surely satisfy your sweet cravings and impress guests at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- In another bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract until creamy.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated; the dough should be thick and sticky.
- Optional: Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to enhance chewiness.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat generously with powdered sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set but still soft in the centers. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg