Grinch Cookies Recipe

Grinch Cookies are a festive, soft, and chewy treat inspired by the beloved holiday character. These bright green cookies with a touch of sweetness and heart-shaped sprinkles are perfect for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or a fun baking activity with kids.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Whimsical Look: The vibrant green color and heart sprinkles capture the Grinch theme perfectly.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Festive Fun: A perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Green food coloring
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)
• Heart-shaped sprinkles (red, for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and green food coloring until fully combined and vibrant.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Shape the Cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, then roll in powdered sugar until coated. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Add Heart Sprinkles: Gently press a red heart-shaped sprinkle onto the top of each dough ball.
9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft.
10. Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Minty Grinch: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a cool, minty flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Grinch: Fold in white or dark chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• No Heart Sprinkles? Use red M&M’s or make small hearts from fondant as a substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or baking.
• Reheating: These cookies don’t require reheating but can be warmed in the microwave for 10 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

FAQs

1. Can I use gel food coloring?

Yes, gel food coloring works well and provides a vibrant color without thinning the dough.

2. What if I don’t have heart-shaped sprinkles?

Use small red candies or icing to create heart designs after baking.

3. How do I ensure the powdered sugar coating stays visible after baking?

Roll the dough generously in powdered sugar, ensuring a thick coating before baking.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

5. Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling helps prevent spreading, so it’s recommended, but you can bake immediately if needed.

6. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter substitute to make the recipe dairy-free.

7. How do I get the perfect green color?

Start with a few drops of green food coloring and adjust gradually until the desired shade is achieved.

8. What type of sugar works best for rolling?

Powdered sugar is ideal for the classic Grinch cookie look, but granulated sugar can be used for a different texture.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and follow the same steps.

10. Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, their festive appearance makes them perfect for holiday cookie tins or gift boxes.

Conclusion

Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive treat that will bring joy to any holiday celebration. With their soft texture, sweet flavor, and adorable heart design, these cookies are sure to grow everyone’s heart three sizes! Bake a batch today and spread some holiday cheer.

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