Name: Grinch Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489749H29M1S
Total time: PT-489749H29M1S
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all‑purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Green food colouring (gel works best for vibrant colour); ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling); Small red heart sprinkles (optional, for that Grinch‑touch)

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These Grinch Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with holiday cheer — a bright green twist on the classic crinkle cookie that’s inspired by everyone’s favorite Christmas character. I love how simple they are to make, yet how festive and fun they look on a holiday cookie platter. With their powdered sugar coating and signature red heart, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, colorful, and perfect for spreading Christmas joy. The cookies are light, soft in the center, and coated in sweet powdered sugar that cracks beautifully as they bake. The vibrant green color makes them instantly eye-catching, and the little red heart gives them that unmistakable “Grinch” charm. They’re fun to make with kids and perfect for holiday parties or gifting. Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, softened
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Green food coloring (gel gives the brightest color)
Powdered sugar (for rolling)
Small red heart sprinkles (optional but adorable)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, I cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
I add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
I gradually stir in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
I add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed — adjusting until I get that perfect Grinch green.
I cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes so it firms up and is easier to roll.
I scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, roll it into a ball, and coat it generously in powdered sugar.
I place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
I bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
While still slightly warm, I gently press a small red heart sprinkle onto each cookie.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to chill, and 10 minutes to bake — so in about an hour, I can have a batch of whimsical holiday cookies ready to serve.

Variations

I sometimes add a drop of peppermint extract for a minty holiday flavor.
For a shortcut, I use a box of white or vanilla cake mix as the base — it works perfectly.
I like dusting a little extra powdered sugar over the cookies after baking for a snowy effect.
For a fun twist, I mix in white chocolate chips before rolling the dough.
I occasionally make “mini Grinch bites” by using a smaller scoop for bite-sized cookies.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, I add a slice of bread to the container. They also freeze well for up to 2 months — I just let them thaw at room temperature before serving. These cookies don’t need reheating; they’re best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature. Grinch Crinkle Cookies

FAQs

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, but gel works better for achieving a bright, vibrant green without thinning the dough.

Why didn’t my cookies crack on top?

That usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled or the powdered sugar coating was too light. I make sure to chill the dough and coat each cookie generously.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight. I let it soften slightly before rolling and baking.

Do I have to add the red heart sprinkles?

No, but I love the festive look they give — it’s what makes them feel so “Grinchy”!

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, and they turn out just as soft and chewy.

Conclusion

These Grinch Crinkle Cookies are one of my favorite holiday treats — festive, sweet, and full of Christmas spirit. I love how easy they are to make, how bright and cheerful they look, and how soft and delicious they taste. Whether I’m baking them for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just a fun night in, they always bring a little extra magic (and maybe a few hearts growing three sizes that day).