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Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

By Mia Hayes | April 25, 2026
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Cookies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Total40 min
Serves12
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Warm, chewy chocolate crinkle cookies

I still remember the first time I made chocolate crinkle cookies - the way the powdered sugar sparkled on top, the chewy texture, and the deep, rich flavor of dark chocolate. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to share this recipe with everyone I knew.

As a h​ome cook, I've always been drawn to recipes that are both easy to make and impressive to serve. Chocolate crinkle cookies fit the bill perfectly - they're simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, but special enough to serve at a holiday party or give as a gift.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way the cookies come together. The combination of melted chocolate, sugar, and eggs creates a dough that's both pliable and tender, with just the right amount of crinkle on the outside. And the best part? They're incredibly versatile - you can customize them with your favorite mix-ins, from nuts to dried fruit to candy pieces.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make perfect chocolate crinkle cookies every time. From the initial mixing of the dough to the final sprinkle of powdered sugar, I'll share my tips and tricks for getting the best results. So whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, I hope you'll join me on this journey to crinkle cookie perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These cookies are easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
  • They're perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to everyday snacks.
  • The combination of melted chocolate and powdered sugar creates a unique and delicious flavor.
  • You can customize the cookies with your favorite mix-ins, from nuts to dried fruit to candy pieces.
  • They're chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a perfect texture that's hard to resist.
  • They make a great gift or treat for friends and family.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great chocolate crinkle cookies is to understand the science behind the dough. When you mix together melted chocolate, sugar, and eggs, you create a mixture that's both rich and tender. The addition of flour helps to strengthen the dough, while the powdered sugar coating adds a sweet and crunchy texture.

One of the most important factors in making great crinkle cookies is temperature control. By using room-temperature ingredients and chilling the dough, you can ensure that the cookies bake up with the right texture and structure. And by using a combination of white and brown sugar, you can create a cookie that's both sweet and complex.

Another important factor is the type of chocolate you use. In this recipe, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. The higher cocoa content gives the cookies a deeper, richer taste that's balanced by the sweetness of the sugar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making chocolate crinkle cookies, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of melted chocolate, sugar, eggs, flour, and powdered sugar to create the perfect cookie. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, including real chocolate and pure vanilla extract, for the best flavor.

  • 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperatureUsing room-temperature butter is crucial for creating a smooth and even dough. If your butter is too cold, it won't mix properly with the sugar and eggs, and your cookies may end up with a grainy texture.
  • 3/4 cup (180g) white granulated sugarWhite sugar provides a bright, sweetness to the cookies that balances out the richness of the chocolate. You can also use a combination of white and brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.
  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugarBrown sugar adds a deeper, more complex flavor to the cookies that complements the chocolate perfectly. It also helps to keep the cookies moist and chewy.
  • 2 large eggsEggs provide moisture and richness to the cookies, and help to bind the ingredients together. Make sure to use room-temperature eggs for the best results.
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extractVanilla extract adds a subtle, creamy flavor to the cookies that enhances the overall taste. Use high-quality extract for the best flavor.
  • 2 3/4 cups (315g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour provides structure and texture to the cookies, and helps to balance out the richness of the chocolate. You can also use bread flour or cake flour for slightly different results.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powderBaking powder helps to leaven the cookies and give them a light, airy texture. Make sure to use fresh baking powder for the best results.
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine saltA small amount of salt helps to balance out the sweetness of the cookies and enhance the overall flavor. Use fine salt for the best results.
  • 1 cup (250g) semisweet chocolate chipsSemisweet chocolate chips provide a rich, intense flavor to the cookies that's balanced by the sweetness of the sugar. You can also use milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugarPowdered sugar provides a sweet, crunchy coating to the cookies that's perfect for snacking. You can also use granulated sugar or turbinado sugar for a slightly different texture.
Ingredients for Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlHand mixer or whiskMeasuring cups and spoonsElectric mixerBaking sheets lined with parchment paperInstant-read thermometerMedium-sized bowl

How to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

  1. 1
    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. 2
    Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  3. 3
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. 4
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. 5
    Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
  6. 6
    Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the dough until well combined.
  7. 7
    Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  8. 8
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. 9
    Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
  10. 10
    Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
  11. 11
    Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft.
  12. 12
    Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

  • Make sure to use room-temperature ingredients for the best results.
  • Don't overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
  • If you want a crisper cookie, bake for 12-14 minutes. If you want a chewier cookie, bake for 8-10 minutes.
  • You can customize the cookies with your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit.
  • To get the perfect crinkle on top of the cookies, make sure to roll them in powdered sugar immediately before baking.
  • If you're having trouble getting the cookies to form into balls, try chilling the dough for a few minutes to firm it up.
  • To freeze the cookies, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
  • Not using room-temperature ingredients, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
  • Not chilling the dough long enough, which can cause the cookies to spread too much during baking.
  • Overbaking the cookies, which can make them dry and crumbly.
  • Not rolling the cookies in powdered sugar before baking, which can affect the texture and appearance of the cookies.
  • Not leaving enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet, which can cause them to stick together during baking.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add-ins: Try adding different mix-ins to the dough, such as nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces.
  • Spices: Add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a unique flavor.
  • Chocolate: Use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for a different flavor profile.
  • Coatings: Try rolling the cookies in different types of sugar, such as granulated sugar or turbinado sugar, for a different texture.
  • Flavor extracts: Add a teaspoon of flavor extract, such as vanilla or almond, to the dough for a unique flavor.
  • Cookie size: Experiment with different sizes of cookies, from small balls to large drops, for a different texture and appearance.

What to Serve With Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are perfect for snacking, and can be served on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk. You can also package them up in a cute container or bag and give them as a gift to friends and family.

Some other ideas for serving these cookies include:

- Pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

- Using them as a base for a sundae, with your favorite toppings such as hot fudge, caramel, and nuts.

- Crushing them up and using them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Pair with a glass of cold milkServe with a scoop of ice creamUse as a base for a sundaeCrush up and use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, and thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to serve.

To freeze the cookies, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

When you're ready to serve the cookies, you can thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes.

Some other tips for storing and reheating the cookies include:

- Making sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

- Freezing them as soon as possible after baking to preserve their texture and flavor.

- Reheating them in the oven or microwave to restore their texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?

Semisweet chocolate chips are recommended for this recipe, but you can also use milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Can I customize the cookies with mix-ins?

Yes, you can customize the cookies with your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces.

How do I get the perfect crinkle on top of the cookies?

To get the perfect crinkle on top of the cookies, make sure to roll them in powdered sugar immediately before baking.

Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

How do I reheat the cookies?

You can reheat the cookies in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes, or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

What is the best way to store the cookies?

The best way to store the cookies is in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes, you can use different types of sugar, such as granulated sugar or turbinado sugar, for a different texture and flavor.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Learn to make bakery-quality chocolate crinkle cookies at home with this easy and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion.

Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Total40 min
Serves12
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (180g) white granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
  6. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the dough until well combined.
  7. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
  10. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
  11. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft.
  12. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

120Calories
2gProtein
20gCarbs
6gFat