The holiday season often whispers sweet promises of fun, family, and delightful treats, and nothing captures that spirit quite like these vibrant Grinch cookies. Picture the magic as the aroma of soft, gooey cookies fills your kitchen, and the kids dash in, eyes wide with excitement at the bright green color topped with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. This grinch-inspired recipe not only brings festive cheer but is also incredibly easy to whip up, thanks to the use of cake mix.
You know those days when you crave something homemade but simply don’t have the time or energy? This Grinch cookies recipe is your answer! They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply a cozy afternoon with loved ones. Plus, the heart-shaped sprinkles add a delightful touch that warms the heart just as much as they please the palate. Join me in creating these scrumptious treats that are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!
Why are Grinch Cookies a holiday must?
Delightful, Festive Appearance: With their vibrant green color and snowy powdered sugar dusting, these cookies are as cute as they are delicious.
Quick & Easy: Utilizing cake mix streamlines the process, making baking a breeze even on busy days.
Family-Friendly Fun: These cookies are perfect for kids to help decorate, fostering fun memories in the kitchen.
Versatile Creations: Change up the cookie color or add festive mix-ins to make them suitable for any holiday celebration.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Soft, gooey texture ensures everyone will fall in love with these delightful cookies, making them ideal for gatherings.
So, grab your ingredients and prepare to bake a batch of warmth and joy this holiday season!
Grinch Cookies Recipe Ingredients
Get ready to create the magic of holiday cheer with this Grinch cookies recipe!
For the Cookie Base
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a snow-like appearance. Ensure it’s sifted for an even dusting.
- Cornstarch – Provides a light texture and helps in creating a snow-like finish. Can be substituted with arrowroot powder.
- Unsalted Butter (¾ cup) – Gives richness and moisture to the cookies. Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
- Canola Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds moisture and keeps cookies soft. Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
- Large Eggs (2) – Provides structure and moisture. Eggs should be at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Boxed Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25oz) – The core of the cookie’s base, simplifying the recipe. Any flavor cake mix can be used for different variations.
- Green Food Coloring – Achieves the signature Grinch color. Use gel coloring for best results.
For the Decoration
- Heart Shaped Sprinkles – For decoration and visual appeal. Candy melts can be used as an alternative for decorating.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to whip up a batch of these enchanting Grinch cookies that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!
How to Make Grinch Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
Whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch in a bowl, then set aside. This mixture will create that snowy finish, so make sure it’s well blended.
Beat the unsalted butter, canola oil, and eggs together in another bowl until well combined (about 30 seconds). The mixture should be creamy and smooth, ensuring your cookies are rich and moist.
Combine the cake mix into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Then, add green food coloring until the desired vibrant shade is achieved. This is where the magic of Grinch color comes to life!
Scoop the dough using a small cookie scoop, then drop each ball into the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture, gently rolling to coat. This will add that delightful snowy touch to your cookies.
Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving space between them as they will spread while baking.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely for puffiness and golden edges. They should look slightly underbaked to maintain their gooey center.
Cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to a wire rack. This allows them to set without becoming too firm.
Decorate with heart sprinkles by using a mixture of cornstarch and powdered sugar as glue. Add as many as you like for a festive flair!
Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies before adding sprinkles.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Grinch Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and maintains that gooey texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Grinch cookies, simply allow them to defrost at room temperature. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving!
What to Serve with Grinch Cookies?
These vibrant treats bring festive joy, and the right accompaniments can elevate your holiday experience.
Frosted Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy drink that mirrors the cookies’ sweetness and adds a cozy touch to your holiday gathering.
Milkshakes: Thick, delicious milkshakes balance the gooey texture of the cookies, providing a delightful harmony of flavors.
Fruit Platter: Crisp, refreshing fruits like strawberries and green apples cut through the sweetness, adding a beautiful and fresh contrast on the table.
Ice Cream Sundaes: Top a scoop with crushed Grinch cookies for a whimsical dessert that delights kids and adults alike.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies intensifies their sweetness and adds a luscious texture, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the festive cookies nicely, balancing flavors and providing warmth during chilly holiday evenings.
Make Ahead Options
These Grinch cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients, and scoop the dough balls but leave the rolling in powdered sugar until you’re ready to bake. Store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, just roll the dough balls in the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm and gooey Grinch cookies ready to share with family and friends, bringing joy with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Grinch Cookies
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is about 2.5 inches in diameter for even baking and perfect presentation.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies. They should puff up and look slightly underbaked to maintain that gooey center typical of a great Grinch cookies recipe.
- Mixing Technique: For best results, use a hand mixer on low-speed settings to blend the ingredients perfectly without overworking the dough.
- Temperature Matters: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter, ensuring delightful texture in every cookie.
- Gooey Goodness: If the cookies feel too soft after baking, remember they’ll firm up as they cool on the wire rack, creating that delightful chewy finish.
Grinch Cookies Variations
Feel inspired to put your personal touch on these festive cookies and make them even more delightful!
Chocolate Chip Add-In: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a deliciously sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the gooey texture. Kids will adore the chocolate surprises!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor. The crunch complements the soft cookie beautifully, making each bite unforgettable.
Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to usher in a refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for those who love a minty holiday treat!
Sprinkle Swap: Instead of heart-shaped sprinkles, use festive red and white sprinkles for a holiday touch, great for celebrations beyond just Christmas. You can also try colored edible glitter for a magical sparkle!
Colorful Cookie Base: Swap out the green food coloring for red or blue for different festive occasions, like Valentine’s Day or Fourth of July celebrations. It’s a simple way to spread joy all year round!
Lemon Zest Kick: Grate 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the dough for a citrusy twist that brightens up the flavors. This unexpected zing will have your taste buds dancing!
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, making it an inclusive treat for everyone.
Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a little heat and warmth, creating a delightful contrast in flavors that add a surprising kick!
With these variations, you can create Grinch cookies that suit your taste and keep the holiday spirit alive!
Grinch Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for Grinch cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature—this makes it easier to cream. Use fresh, large eggs as they provide better structure and moisture. If you’re opting for any add-ins, like chocolate chips, check for quality and avoid those with any signs of rancidity or dialogue.
How should I store my Grinch cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your cookies soft and scrumptious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like, placing parchment paper between layers can help keep them from sticking together. For extended freshness, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week, and remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze Grinch cookies for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them defrost at room temperature, or quickly warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my Grinch cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading excessively, check to ensure your butter was soft but not melted. A common pitfall is overmixing the dough after adding the cake mix; mixing just until combined is key. Adjusting the oven temperature slightly higher can also help set the cookies faster and reduce spreading—watch them closely as baking times may vary!
Are Grinch cookies safe for children and those with allergies?
Very! This recipe is meant to be family-friendly, but always double-check the ingredient labels for allergens like eggs and potential cross-contamination with nuts. If someone has a specific allergy, substitutions can be made—like using egg replacers or gluten-free cake mix options. It’s also advisable that any sprinkles or decorations align with dietary needs.
Can I use different cake mix flavors for my Grinch cookies?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily substitute the standard cake mix with any flavor you desire—think vanilla for a traditional twist, or even chocolate for a rich (and green!) surprise. Just be mindful of the food coloring, as the flavors might slightly affect the hue!
Gooey Grinch Cookies Recipe That Kids Will Love This Holiday
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch in a bowl, then set aside.
- Beat the unsalted butter, canola oil, and eggs together until well combined (about 30 seconds).
- Combine the cake mix into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Add green food coloring.
- Scoop the dough using a small cookie scoop, then drop each ball into the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture, gently rolling to coat.
- Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely for puffiness and golden edges.
- Cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to a wire rack.
- Decorate with heart sprinkles using cornstarch and powdered sugar as glue.