Brownie Crinkle Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving something that brings together the fudgy richness of brownies and the fun, crackled look of crinkle cookies, these Brownie Crinkle Cookies are exactly what you need. They boast a soft, chewy center with a beautifully cracked powdered sugar crust that makes every bite a tiny celebration of chocolate joy. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or to impress guests at your next gathering, these cookies are effortless to whip up and deliver the kind of homemade magic that sticks with you long after the last crumb is gone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All of these ingredients are pantry staples, yet each plays a crucial role in giving your Brownie Crinkle Cookies their signature fudgy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and that irresistible powdered sugar crackle that makes them stand out.

• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the soft crumb texture.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Provides moisture and keeps the cookies tender without weighing them down.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while giving richness to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the chocolate flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that structures your cookie and balances the moist ingredients.
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep, luscious chocolate intensity for that authentic brownie taste.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies that slight puffiness and delicate rise.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Cuts through the sweetness and elevates the chocolate flavor.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Essential for coating each cookie ball and creating the classic crinkle effect during baking.

How to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil in a large bowl until the mixture looks a bit fluffy—this step helps bring in some air for lightness. Add the eggs one at a time, fully combining after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract to round out the flavors beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting is key here because it breaks up any lumps and ensures that your cocoa powder integrates evenly for a smooth dough.

Step 3: Bring the Dough Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. You’ll want a soft, thick dough—too much mixing can make these cookies tough, so be gentle here. This dough promises that fudgy bite that is the hallmark of Brownie Crinkle Cookies.

Step 4: Shape and Coat with Powdered Sugar

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls—making them uniform helps them bake evenly. Then generously roll each ball in powdered sugar; this layer is responsible for creating those gorgeous snowy cracks as the cookies bake and expand in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your cookie balls about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to give them space to puff up. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re puffed and the crinkle pattern appears. Let them cool slightly on the tray before transferring to a wire rack so they set up perfectly without breaking.

How to Serve Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Garnishes

Add a touch of elegance by sprinkling a little extra powdered sugar or even finely chopped nuts on top right after baking. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt also contrasts beautifully with the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

Brownie Crinkle Cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat or a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance their rich, fudgy texture. For grown-up gatherings, serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a decadent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies in a cute jar or wrapping them in colorful parchment paper to create charming gifts. For parties, arrange them on a platter with fresh berries or edible flowers for a pop of color that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Brownie Crinkle Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This prevents them from drying out and preserves the soft, chewy texture you love.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the dough balls before baking or freeze fully baked cookies in a sealed container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing any of their rich flavor or fudgy texture.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop the cookies in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes or zap a single cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This revives the softness and makes the chocolate gooey again, as if fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute vegetable oil with butter?

Yes, you can swap vegetable oil for melted butter to add a richer, slightly nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that butter may make the cookies a little firmer and change the texture slightly, but they will still be delicious.

Why do the cookies need to be rolled in powdered sugar?

The powdered sugar coating is key to the Brownie Crinkle Cookies’ signature look. As the cookies bake and expand, the sugar cracks and creates that stunning, snowy crinkle effect that’s both beautiful and adds a subtle sweetness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for the cookies to puff up and develop visible cracks on the surface. They should feel slightly soft but not wet in the center. The baking time is short, so keep a close eye after the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?

Definitely add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts are a fantastic way to customize your Brownie Crinkle Cookies. Stir them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients to avoid overmixing.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this fantastic Brownie Crinkle Cookies recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth delights. They’re straightforward to make yet sophisticated enough to impress anyone who takes a bite. So go ahead, bake some love into your day and enjoy every fudgy, crinkly moment!

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