Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Cover and Chill: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Prepare for Rolling: Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
- Scoop the Dough: Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough (about 1 tablespoon per cookie).
- Roll the Dough: Roll each portion into a ball, then roll the ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. The more powdered sugar you use, the more crinkly your cookies will appear.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be set on the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool on Baking Sheet: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Enjoy
- Serve: Enjoy the cookies warm or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Crinkles
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough; it’s crucial for achieving the classic crinkle effect.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar: For a more pronounced crinkle, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once before baking and once after they cool slightly.
- Store Properly: To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze the dough balls before baking for a quick treat later.
Conclusion
These classic chocolate crinkles are soft, fudgy, and visually stunning, making them a delightful addition to any cookie platter or dessert table. With their rich chocolate flavor and irresistible texture, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Bake a batch today and enjoy the warm, chocolatey goodness that will have everyone coming back for more!