Every holiday season, my kitchen transforms into a festive wonderland, filled with all the scents and sights that capture the spirit of celebration. This year, I’m particularly excited to share my Easy Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies, the perfect blend of fun and flavor. Not only are these cookies a visual treat with their vibrant colors and charming crackles, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, so even novice bakers can shine. Using a simple white cake mix as the foundation, you’ll have delicious, chewy cookies ready in no time, making them ideal for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy family afternoons. Plus, they’re sure to impress your friends and family, sparking joy in every bite. Curious about how these delightful treats come together? Let’s dive into the festive spirit and bake some magic!
Why are these cookies a must-bake?
Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant red and green colors create a festive look that brightens any holiday platter.
Fun to Make: Mixing and rolling the dough is a great activity for kids and adults alike.
Quick and Easy: Using a white cake mix means you’ll have soft, chewy cookies in under an hour.
Impressive Flavor: A touch of vanilla or chocolate chips adds depth to the simple sweetness.
Versatile Base: Experiment with different flavors or natural dyes to cater to all festive occasions! If you’re looking for more delightful cookie ideas, don’t miss out on my Lemon Meltaway Cookies and Mexican Wedding Cookies.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Celebrate the season with these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- White Cake Mix – Provides sweetness and a soft texture, making it perfect for festive red and green crinkle cookies.
- Large Eggs – Binds the mixture and adds moisture; you can replace with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan-friendly option.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cookies moist; substitute with melted coconut oil for a tropical twist.
For the Coating
- Powdered Sugar – Creates that signature crackled look; don’t skimp, it’s key for presentation!
- Red and Green Gel Food Coloring – Gives vibrant colors; natural alternatives like beet juice and spinach powder can be used for a healthier twist.
These ingredients come together to create an enchanting experience, whether you’re baking solo or with family. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of joy and warmth to your holiday festivities!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir these ingredients together using a spatula or wooden spoon until a thick and well-mixed dough forms, about 2-3 minutes. The dough should have a smooth consistency, free of lumps, signaling that it’s ready for the next delightful step in making your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
Step 2: Divide and Color the Dough
Once your dough is well-prepared, divide it evenly into two portions. Add red gel food coloring to one half and green to the other, mixing thoroughly until both portions are vibrantly colored. Aim for a rich hue, which will enhance the festive appearance of your cookies. This step not only infuses color but also adds a playful touch, transforming the dough into a holiday masterpiece.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover both portions of colored dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to shape into balls. As you wait, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation ensures that when you take the dough out, you’ll be ready to assemble your cookies immediately.
Step 4: Roll and Coat the Dough Balls
After chilling, retrieve the red and green dough from the fridge. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions and roll them into evenly-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Then, generously coat each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring a thick layer covers the surface. This sugar coating is essential for creating the signature crackled look on your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. Ensure that the cookies are evenly placed on the sheet for consistent baking. The vibrant colors will start to show through the sugary exterior, making your baking sheet a festive sight in itself.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake your Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges, watching for them to set while the centers remain slightly soft. The cookies should develop a delightful crackled surface as they bake, signaling that they are nearly ready to enjoy!
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked to perfection, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. This brief cooling period allows them to firm up without losing their soft, chewy center. Afterward, gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The sweet, festive smell will fill your kitchen, teasing your taste buds for the deliciousness to come!
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 keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: For added longevity, you can refrigerate the cookies, which will extend their freshness for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they’re well wrapped!
Freezer: Freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To refresh the cookies, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until slightly heated—perfect for that fresh-baked taste!
What to Serve with Easy Festive Red and Green Crinkle Cookies
As you indulge in these delightful holiday treats, consider pairings that will elevate your festive experience.
- Rich Hot Cocoa: A cozy cup of hot cocoa offers a warm, chocolatey contrast that pairs beautifully with the cookie’s sweetness.
- Sparkling Cranberry Juice: This refreshing drink adds a festive sparkle and tartness, enhancing the flavors of the cookies.
- Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the chewy cookie, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Peppermint Tea: A soothing cup of peppermint tea introduces a hint of mint that beautifully enhances the festive spirit of these cookies.
- Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: For a cookie platter, include chewy gingerbread for a spiced contrast that evokes holiday cheer and tradition.
- Christmas Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser, brightening up the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Eggnog: Nothing says holiday like a glass of creamy eggnog, providing a decadent, spiced drink to savor alongside your cookies.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the hot cocoa or coffee served, creating aromatic warmth that pairs perfectly with these festive delights.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These sweet and salty treats add another layer of texture to your dessert spread, contrasting with the crinkle cookie’s soft goodness.
- Holiday Cheeseboard: Include a selection of cheeses and nuts for a savory twist that rounds out the flavor experience and adds a sophisticated touch to your gathering.
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to match your taste and dietary needs!
Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or peppermint extract for a unique flavor twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the traditional white cake mix for a safe option for gluten-sensitive folks. Your cookies will still turn out delicious and festive!
Vegan-Friendly: Swap the large eggs for a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons water) to make a vegan version.
Natural Colors: Experiment with beet or carrot juice for the red color and spirulina powder for a natural green, giving your cookies a nutritious boost.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and flavor. The nuttiness will complement the sweetness beautifully!
Chocolate Delight: Integrate chocolate chips into the cookie dough for extra sweetness. This will enhance not only the taste but also the texture—who doesn’t love a little chocolate?
Holiday Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a festive spicy twist that perfectly complements the season.
Coconut Flakes: Coat the balls in shredded coconut after the powdered sugar for a tropical touch that adds both texture and a delightful chewiness.
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to play with flavors, colors, and textures. After all, these cookies are about bringing joy, so make them uniquely yours! And if you’re still craving more cookie recipes, check out my Lemon Meltaway Cookies—they’re a perfect companion to any holiday celebration!
Expert Tips for Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies
Watch the Time: Be mindful of your baking time; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for soft centers to ensure that chewy texture we love!
Coat Generously: Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar coating. A thick layer is vital for that signature crackled appearance, making your cookies truly festive!
Chill Well: Refrigerating the dough is crucial. Proper chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much, helping maintain their cute, fluffy shape.
Flavor Additions: For an extra kick of flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or white chocolate chips before rolling the dough.
Storage Tips: Store your cooled Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them fresh and moist longer.
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 cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, rolling the dough into balls, and coating them in powdered sugar. Once prepared, simply place the dough balls on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To ensure freshness, bake them straight from the fridge when ready to serve; there’s no need to thaw. This makes it incredibly easy to pop fresh cookies in the oven, ensuring they are just as delicious and festive for your holiday gatherings!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! A white cake mix is ideal for these Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies due to its sweetness and soft texture. You can also substitute with vanilla or yellow cake mix, keeping in mind that it might slightly alter the color of the finished cookies.
How should I store my crinkle cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain their delightful chewiness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them to stay fresh for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later?
Absolutely! After dividing and coloring the dough, you can wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. It will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If you notice your cookies spreading too much, it’s often due to the dough not being chilled enough. Make sure to chill your dough for the full 30 minutes before baking. If needed, you can also add a bit more cake mix to the dough to help maintain texture and shape.
Are these cookies safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
These Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies contain common allergens like eggs and gluten from the cake mix. If you’re baking for someone with food allergies, consider using a gluten-free cake mix and egg replacer like a flaxseed mixture. Always check that any additional ingredients are safe for those with allergies.
How can I ensure the cookie texture is chewy instead of cakey?
To achieve that perfect chewy texture, be cautious not to overbake your cookies—look for crinkled edges while ensuring the centers are set but soft. Additionally, using vegetable oil instead of butter enhances the chewiness, so stick to the recipe for the best results!
Festive Red & Green Crinkle Cookies: Easy Holiday Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until a thick dough forms, about 2-3 minutes.
- Divide the dough into two portions, color one with red gel food coloring and the other with green.
- Cover the colored dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- After chilling, scoop and roll the dough into 1 inch balls, then coat each in powdered sugar.
- Place the sugar-coated balls on a prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 9 to 11 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
