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Ultimate Fudgy & Chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies with Perfect Powdered Sugar Crinkle

Three rich, dark chocolate crinkle cookies dusted heavily with powdered sugar on a white plate.

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Make the best homemade chocolate crinkle cookies that are fudgy, chewy, and feature the signature crackled powdered sugar top. This easy recipe delivers rich, brownie-like chocolate cookies perfect for any gathering or holiday cookie exchange.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
  • 1/2 cup extra powdered sugar, for rolling (optional, for extra thick coating)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each.
  6. Place the 1 cup of powdered sugar (and the optional extra 1/2 cup) in a shallow dish.
  7. Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the powdered sugar until completely coated.
  8. Place the coated dough balls on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  9. Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for the best crinkle effect and texture.
  10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the centers should still look slightly soft.
  12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For the best fudgy and chewy texture, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
  • If the powdered sugar coating cracks too much during baking, you can gently re-roll the warm cookies in a little extra powdered sugar immediately after they come out of the oven.
  • Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich, decadent chocolate flavor.

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