Chocolate Mint Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Chewy, and Festively Minty

Chocolate and mint is a classic flavor pairing that delights both young and old alike. Chocolate Mint Crinkle Cookies combine rich cocoa, a hint of mint, and a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth. These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to a decadent dessert. With a hidden Mint Truffle Hershey’s Kiss in the center, each bite is a pleasant surprise of chocolate and mint, making them as fun as they are delicious.

This guide provides detailed steps, tips, and tricks for baking perfect crinkle cookies every time, along with suggestions for storage and variation.

Ingredients

These measurements will yield 36 cookies, each bursting with chocolate and minty flavor:

• 1 ½ cups (186g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and body to the cookies.
• ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a light texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
• ½ cup (118ml) vegetable oil – Contributes moistness and a tender texture.
• 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor, enhancing chewiness.
• 3 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate.
• ½ cup (57g) powdered sugar – For coating the dough, creating the classic crinkle appearance.
• 36 Mint Truffle Hershey’s Kisses – Placed in the center of each cookie for a minty surprise.

Optional Note: Add a few drops of mint extract to the dough for an extra minty flavor.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.
2. Set aside.

Tip: Sifting the cocoa powder prevents lumps and ensures a smooth dough.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to combine vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat until smooth, creamy, and well-incorporated.

Tip: Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification and a smoother batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
2. Mix slowly until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can make cookies tough.

Tip: The dough will be slightly sticky—this is normal and ensures soft cookies.

Step 4: Portion and Chill

1. Scoop 1-tablespoon balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet (parchment paper or silicone mat).
2. There is no need to space them at this stage. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Tip: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and creates the classic crinkle effect when baked.

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Coating

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
3. Place powdered sugar in a small bowl for coating the chilled dough balls.

Step 6: Coat and Arrange

1. Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
2. Place coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for expansion.

Tip: Do not skip this step; the powdered sugar gives the signature crinkle look.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake for about 10 minutes, until cookies appear slightly flattened and crackled on top.
2. Remove from oven and immediately press a Mint Truffle Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.

Tip: Press gently but firmly, so the chocolate stays in place as the cookies cool.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a container.
2. Serve as a delightful treat, perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Tip: The cookies are soft and chewy at room temperature, but slightly firmer if chilled.

Step 9: Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, warm briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Notes and Tips

• Extra Mint Flavor: A few drops of mint extract in the dough will intensify the minty taste.
• Cookie Size: Adjust dough ball size to make larger or smaller cookies; bake time may vary slightly.
• Avoid Overbaking: Watch cookies carefully; they will continue to firm as they cool.
• Mix-ins: For a festive twist, consider adding finely chopped peppermint candies to the dough.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use chocolate chips instead of Mint Truffle Hershey’s Kisses?
Yes, but the center won’t have the same minty melt-in-your-mouth experience. Chocolate chips can be a good alternative for non-mint eaters.

Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Dough can be prepared and chilled for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different—cookies may be slightly more cake-like.

Q4: Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling is highly recommended. It helps the cookies retain their shape and ensures the crinkle pattern develops during baking.

Q5: Can I add mint extract to make it more minty?
Yes, add ½ teaspoon of mint extract to the wet ingredients for extra peppermint flavor.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Cookie)

• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Conclusion

Chocolate Mint Crinkle Cookies are a delicious blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, featuring a soft, chewy texture and a festive surprise center. Perfect for the holiday season or as an everyday indulgence, they are simple to make yet impressive in flavor and appearance.

With careful attention to chilling, coating, and baking, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Pair them with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea for the ultimate treat, and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and mint in every bite.

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