Every year, the holidays sneak up on me, and no matter how prepared I think I am, there’s always something left to do at the last minute. Whether it’s wrapping gifts or pulling together one more dessert for a cookie swap, these Christmas crinkle cookies always save the day. They’re festive, ridiculously easy to make, and taste like little bites of winter magic. Plus, who can resist those signature crinkles dusted with powdered sugar? They look like freshly fallen snow—and in my house, they vanish just as quickly.

A few years ago, I remember making these cookies on Christmas Eve with my niece. She was around five at the time, and we had a blast turning the dough into her “favorite” colors—red and green, of course. Her hands were covered in food coloring (mine too, if I’m being honest), and we both ended up with powdered sugar in places it had no business being. That batch might’ve been a little messy, but they were still some of the most joyful cookies I’ve ever made. Ever since then, it’s become a family tradition to whip up a batch of these crinkly little treats while holiday music plays in the background.

Let’s jump into the recipe and make some holiday memories of our own, shall we?

Where did crinkle cookies come from?

Crinkle cookies aren’t just a Christmas thing—they’ve been delighting cookie lovers for decades! Originating as chocolate crinkle cookies, this style of cookie became a classic thanks to their unique texture. The powdered sugar coating splits apart as the dough spreads in the oven, creating those beautiful cracks and crinkles. The Christmas version of these cookies swaps out the chocolate for a base of white cake mix and brings in red and green food coloring for that unmistakable holiday vibe.

Over time, these cookies have become a go-to for busy holiday bakers because they’re quick, simple, and don’t require fancy ingredients. Even better? You can tweak the flavors and colors to fit any occasion. But during the holidays, their cheerful appearance makes them a standout on any cookie platter.

Let’s talk ingredients: holiday cheer in every bite

This recipe keeps things simple—perfect for when you’re juggling a million other holiday tasks. Here’s what you’ll need:

White cake mix: The star of the show! The cake mix gives these cookies a soft, fluffy texture and a subtly sweet, vanilla flavor. If you’re out of white cake mix, you could try yellow cake mix, though the colors may turn out a bit warmer.
Eggs: These bind everything together and help give the cookies structure. For a vegan version, you could try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).
Vanilla: A little splash of vanilla makes everything better. Feel free to swap it for almond extract if you’re feeling adventurous—it adds a subtle nuttiness that’s just lovely.
Vegetable oil: This keeps the cookies moist and soft. Canola oil works too, or even melted coconut oil if you like a hint of coconut flavor.
Food coloring gel: The gel kind is ideal for bright, vivid colors without altering the dough’s texture. You can also use liquid food coloring, but you’ll need more of it.
Powdered sugar: A must for that signature crinkle look. It’s like a snowy blanket for your cookies!

Kitchen gear you’ll need

The beauty of these cookies is that they don’t require a lot of fancy equipment. Here’s what I recommend:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Silicone baking mat or parchment paper: Keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I’ve used both, and honestly, they’re lifesavers.
Cookie scoop or tablespoon: This helps portion out the dough evenly, so all your cookies bake at the same time. If you don’t have one, a regular spoon works too.
Cooling rack: To cool the cookies after baking. It helps them firm up a bit before you sneak your first taste.

Optional but fun: If you want perfectly crinkly cookies, invest in a small sifter or fine-mesh strainer to evenly coat the dough balls in powdered sugar. It’s not essential, but it feels fancy.

Step-by-step: baking your Christmas crinkle cookies

Preheat the oven and prep your baking sheet: Start by setting your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vanilla, and vegetable oil. Stir until everything’s well blended. The dough will be thick and sticky—that’s a good sign!
Divide and conquer: Split the dough into two equal portions and place them in separate bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and green to the other. Mix each bowl until the colors are fully incorporated. (Tip: If you’re using your hands to mix, wear gloves unless you want a festive manicure!)
Chill out: Pop both bowls of dough into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is key—it makes the dough easier to handle and gives you fluffier cookies.
Scoop, roll, and coat: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to measure out the dough, rolling each piece into a ball. Coat each dough ball generously in powdered sugar, making sure it’s completely covered. (If the dough is too sticky to roll, knead in a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s easier to handle.)
Bake to perfection: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes. The cookies should be just set but still soft in the middle—don’t overbake them!
Cool and admire: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Resist the urge to eat one right away… or don’t.

Fun variations to try

Chocolate lovers’ twist: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a hint of chocolate flavor.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free white cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
Spice it up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to give the cookies a warm, spiced flavor.
Holiday sparkle: Roll the dough balls in colored sanding sugar instead of powdered sugar for a sparkly finish.
Minty fresh: Add a drop or two of peppermint extract to the dough for a festive mint flavor.

Serving and presentation ideas

Pile these cookies onto a festive platter with some fresh sprigs of rosemary or a few candy canes for decoration. If you’re hosting a party, they look adorable stacked in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon—perfect for gifting!

What to drink with these cookies

Pair these sweet treats with a mug of hot cocoa (extra marshmallows, please) or a frothy peppermint mocha. If you’re looking for something lighter, a cold glass of milk never fails. And for the adults? These cookies pair surprisingly well with a glass of sweet dessert wine like Moscato.

Storing and reheating tips

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, but if you need more (and trust me, you might), you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have extra powdered sugar on hand—you’ll go through it faster than you think!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Yes! Just use more of it to achieve the same vibrant colors.

2. Why do my cookies look flat?
Chilling the dough is key—don’t skip it! It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Shape the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and bake straight from the freezer (just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time).

4. Can I use other cake mix flavors?
Of course! Lemon or funfetti cake mix would be amazing for a non-traditional twist.

5. Do I have to use powdered sugar?
Technically, no—but you’ll lose the iconic crinkle look. Sanding sugar works too if you’re in a pinch.

This holiday season, let these Christmas crinkle cookies add a little extra joy to your table. Whether you’re making them for a cookie exchange, gifting them to neighbors, or enjoying them with loved ones by the tree, they’re sure to bring smiles. So, grab your mixing bowl, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some festive baking fun! Happy holidays!