There’s something comforting about biting into a warm, chewy chocolate cookie, especially when the holidays roll around. If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling endlessly for the perfect chewy chocolate cookie recipe that’s easy enough for a busy holiday season — you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true Brownie Crinkle Cookies recipe — a delightful mashup of a rich brownie and a classic crinkle cookie that’ll have your family begging for more.
These cookies don’t just look stunning with their crackled tops dusted in powdered sugar — they taste like pure chocolate heaven. Whether you’re prepping for a Christmas cookie exchange, baking with kids, or whipping up treats for a cozy movie night, this is one easy holiday cookie recipe you’ll come back to year after year.
Why You’ll Love These Brownie Crinkle Cookies
If you’re wondering what makes this chewy chocolate cookie recipe stand out, here’s why:
- Fudgy Centers: Each bite is melt-in-your-mouth soft, like your favorite corner piece of a brownie.
- Crispy Crackle Tops: That signature crinkle look adds festive flair — no fancy decorating required.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything in your pantry already.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies stay chewy for days, making them ideal for cookie boxes.
How to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies (Step-by-Step)
Ready to bake? Here’s exactly what you’ll need and how to get that perfect crinkle every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
1️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients — In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2️⃣ Make the Dough — In another bowl, beat the sugar and oil until combined. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Gradually add the dry mixture until a sticky dough forms.
3️⃣ Chill — Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the cookies hold their shape and get that classic crinkle top.
4️⃣ Roll & Coat — Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls, roll them in your hands, then generously coat each one in powdered sugar.
5️⃣ Bake — Place on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should look cracked on top but still soft inside.
6️⃣ Cool & Enjoy — Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Top 5 Tips for Perfect Chewy Chocolate Cookies
| Tip No. | What to Do | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chill the dough | Prevents spreading, creates distinct cracks |
| 2 | Use high-quality cocoa | Deepens the chocolate flavor |
| 3 | Don’t overbake | Keeps the centers fudgy and chewy |
| 4 | Coat generously in sugar | Creates that pretty crinkle effect |
| 5 | Store airtight | Keeps cookies fresh and soft for days |
What the Experts Say
“Cookies like these are the perfect make-ahead holiday treat — they’re simple, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser,” says Sarah Kieffer, author of 100 Cookies. “Don’t skip chilling the dough — it’s key for that beautiful crinkle.”
According to Statista, holiday baking in the U.S. has grown by over 20% in the last five years, with classic recipes like chewy chocolate cookies topping the list for cookie swaps and family gatherings.
FAQs About Brownie Crinkle Cookies
1️⃣ How do you keep Brownie Crinkle Cookies chewy?
Don’t overbake them! Take them out when the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft — they’ll firm up as they cool.
2️⃣ Can I freeze Brownie Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely. You can freeze the dough balls before rolling in powdered sugar — just thaw slightly, coat, and bake.
3️⃣ What makes crinkle cookies crack?
The powdered sugar coating dries out the surface while the dough inside expands, creating those signature cracks.
4️⃣ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
5️⃣ Are these good for cookie exchanges?
Definitely. They look festive and stay fresh for days when stored properly.
6️⃣ Can kids help make these?
Of course! Kids love rolling the dough in sugar — it’s a fun holiday activity.
7️⃣ What’s the best cocoa powder for Brownie Crinkle Cookies?
Use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for an easy holiday cookie recipe to try this year, these Brownie Crinkle Cookies won’t disappoint. They’re chewy, chocolatey, and look like you spent hours in the kitchen — even though you didn’t!
If you try this recipe, comment below with your results or your own twist on it — I’d love to hear how your batch turns out. Happy baking!
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