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Fudgy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: The Best Soft, Crackled Holiday Treat

A stack of three fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies dusted heavily with white powdered sugar on a white plate.
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Make rich, fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies that taste like brownies. This easy recipe gives you a soft, chewy interior and the classic powdered sugar crackle top, perfect for holiday baking or satisfying serious chocolate cravings.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of the granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips if using.
  5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading and improves the crackle.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Place the remaining 3/4 cup granulated sugar in one shallow dish and the powdered sugar in another.
  8. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough. Roll each ball first in the granulated sugar, then roll it thoroughly in the powdered sugar until completely coated.
  9. Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  10. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the centers should still look slightly soft. Do not overbake for a fudgy texture.
  11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The crackles will set as they cool.

Notes

  • For the best crackled appearance, make sure the dough balls are generously coated in powdered sugar before baking.
  • If you want a truly brownie-like texture, chill the dough for 1 hour or even overnight before scooping.
  • These cookies freeze well. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/fudgy-chocolate-crinkle-cookies-recipe/