Grinch Cookies

Introduction to Grinch Cookies

It’s that time of year again, filled with laughter, love, and, of course, delicious treats! I absolutely adore baking during the holidays, and these Grinch Cookies quickly became a festive favorite in my home. They’re not just charming; they’re fun to make with the kids and come together in a flash. When I’m racing against the clock, this recipe is my go-to. Plus, who can resist a cookie that looks just as joyful as it tastes? Let’s spread some holiday cheer, one Grinch Cookie at a time!

Why You’ll Love This Grinch Cookies

These Grinch Cookies are the epitome of holiday magic! They come together in no time, making them perfect for busy schedules. The delightful blend of peppermint and sweet vanilla creates a taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, their festive green color and heart-shaped sprinkles bring smiles to faces young and old. You’ll love how easy they are, meaning more time to enjoy the season!

Ingredients for Grinch Cookies

Gathering the ingredients for these delightful Grinch Cookies is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

• White cake mix: This is the base of our cookies, giving them a soft texture and sweet flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender cookie. Make sure it’s soft for easy mixing!
• Large eggs: They bind everything together and create that lovely chewy texture we crave.
• Peppermint extract or mint extract: This gives a refreshing holiday flavor. You can adjust the amount for a stronger minty kick.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness, balancing the peppermint with warm, comforting notes.
• Green gel food coloring: This is what brings the Grinch to life! Add a few drops until you reach your desired shade.
• Powdered sugar: Helps create that sweet coating on the outside, giving it a lovely crinkle effect.
• Cornstarch: This helps achieve that classic crinkly texture we love in cookies while keeping them soft.
• Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon: These little gems are essential for making your cookies look festive and embracing the Grinch’s heart!

For those who love a little twist in their baking, consider adding some crushed candy canes for extra crunch and flavor.

You can find all the exact measurements, along with printing options, at the bottom of the article!

How to Make Grinch Cookies

Making these delightful Grinch Cookies is easier than you’d think! Let’s dive into each step so you can create a batch that will spread holiday cheer in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

First things first, preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is vital. This ensures your cookies bake evenly. While that’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This creates a non-stick surface and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, eggs, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a generous amount of green gel food coloring. Mix everything until a smooth, vibrant dough forms. Don’t rush—scraping the sides of the bowl will help incorporate all those adorable bits. You’ll want to be proud of that bright green hue!

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. This sweet mixture adds that signature crinkle look to your cookies and keeps them soft. It’s this step that takes them from good to “I-can’t-stop-eating-these” phenomenal!

Step 4: Portion and Roll the Cookies

Grab a small cookie scoop or simply use a spoon to portion out the dough. Roll each piece into neat little balls, about an inch in size. If you don’t have a scoop, your hands work just as well! Just remember to roll them gently so they stay nice and round.

Step 5: Coat the Cookie Dough

Now it’s time to coat each dough ball in the sugar-cornstarch mixture. Roll the balls thoroughly to ensure they’re well-covered. This gives the cookies their adorable crinkled exterior. It’s the little details that make these treats so charming!

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Place your coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading. Before baking, gently press a red heart-shaped sprinkle or a touch of cinnamon on top of each cookie. These will mimic the Grinch’s heart and add a pop of color!

Step 7: Baking Time

Pop the cookie sheets into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch closely! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set and the middle looks slightly puffy. You want that perfect balance of chewy and soft, reminiscent of holiday joy.

Step 8: Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps them firm up a bit. Then, use a spatula to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step preserves their delightful texture. You want every bite to burst with flavor!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Don’t skip the rolling in the sugar-cornstarch mix; it’s key for that crinkle texture!
• Experiment with adding a little extra peppermint if you love a stronger flavor.
• Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes—your cookies will all bake evenly.
• Let your cookies cool properly to maintain that perfect soft texture.

Equipment Needed for Grinch Cookies

• Mixing bowls: Any size will do, but a large one is best for mixing dough.
• Cookie scoop: A handy tool for evenly sized cookies. A tablespoon works too!
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup. Aluminum foil is a fine substitute.
• Wire rack: To cool cookies, but a plate can also do the job.
• Spatula: Essential for transferring cookies—trust me, you’ll want one!

Variations of Grinch Cookies

• Chocolate Chips: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist. The combination of mint and chocolate is simply irresistible!
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make it nut-free and vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the regular white cake mix for a delicious gluten-free batch.
• Candy Cane Crush: Add crushed candy canes to the dough for extra festive flair and minty crunch!
• Sprinkle Variety: Experiment with different festive sprinkles instead of the heart-shaped ones for a colorful cookie display.

Serving Suggestions for Grinch Cookies

• Pair these adorable Grinch Cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Serve them on a festive platter adorned with holiday decorations for an eye-catching centerpiece.
• These cookies are perfect as a sweet addition to cookie exchanges or holiday gift baskets.
• Present them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.

FAQs about Grinch Cookies

If you have questions about these fun Grinch Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries to help you bake with confidence:

Can I use another type of cake mix for Grinch Cookies?

Absolutely! While a white cake mix is traditional, a lemon or vanilla cake mix could also bring a new flavor twist. Just remember, the color may change slightly!

How can I store leftover Grinch Cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They tend to stay soft and delicious, keeping the holiday spirit alive!

Can I freeze Grinch Cookies?

Yes! Freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure they’re completely cool before wrapping them tightly. Freeze the dough for a fun baking session later!

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

If peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to use vanilla extract, almond extract, or even citrus zest for a unique flavor. It’ll still lend a delightful taste!

Are these cookies suitable for kids to help make?

Definitely! Making Grinch Cookies is a fun activity for kids. They can help mix, roll, and decorate! It’s a great way to create festive memories together.

Final Thoughts

These Grinch Cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they’re a way to gather with loved ones, share laughter, and create wonderful memories during the holiday season. From the vibrant green dough to the joyful heart sprinkles, every bite bursts with festive cheer. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick and easy, allowing us to savor more moments with family. So, the next time you’re looking to bring some holiday magic into your kitchen, whip up a batch of these cookies. Trust me, they’ll light up your home and hearts!

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