Soft and Chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

If you’re looking for a rich, indulgent cookie with a perfect combination of soft, chewy centers and a crackly, sugary exterior, these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are the perfect choice. With their fudgy texture and visually appealing crinkled top, they make for a delightful treat during the holidays or any time you crave something sweet. Here’s how to make these irresistible cookies!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudgy texture)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and brown sugar together until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Slowly add the oil (or melted butter) and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and well combined.
5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) and mix until just combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help the dough firm up and make it easier to roll into balls.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Once the dough has chilled, roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands.
3. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
4. Roll each cookie dough ball in the powdered sugar, making sure it’s coated well. The powdered sugar will create the signature crinkly top as the cookies bake.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Arrange the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have cracked.
3. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chocolate crinkle cookies have cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! These cookies are perfect for gifting, serving at a holiday party, or indulging in a sweet treat any time of the year.

Tips and Variations:

• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in white chocolate chips, walnuts, or even peppermint extract for a fun twist on the classic chocolate crinkle.
• Chewy texture: For extra chewiness, underbake the cookies slightly (the centers should look soft when you take them out).
• Make-ahead: You can make the dough in advance, roll it into balls, and freeze them. Then, when you’re ready to bake, just roll them in powdered sugar and bake directly from the freezer. Increase baking time by a minute or two.

Conclusion

These Soft and Chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a decadent, must-try treat that combines the best of chocolate flavor and a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. With their iconic cracked top, they look as good as they taste and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a party, or just because, these cookies will be a hit every time!