Easy Grinch Cookies are guaranteed to steal the hearts of all your friends and family this Christmas season! This easy Christmas cookie recipe is quick to make and is incredibly festive and fun – just perfect for cookie plates and dessert tables this holiday season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these cookies can be ready in no time.
- Festive Flavors: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a delightful holiday flavor that everyone loves.
- Fun for Everyone: Kids and adults alike will enjoy rolling the dough in powdered sugar, making baking a fun family activity.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These Grinch Cookies are not only ideal for Christmas but also great for holiday parties or gift-giving.
- Beautiful Presentation: Their vibrant green color and heart-shaped sprinkles make them a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Easy Grinch Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures your baking goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer: This tool makes mixing your ingredients easy and quick, ensuring a well-combined batter.
- Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Easy Grinch Cookies:
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix (432 g box)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract (or mint extract)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- green gel food coloring
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (32 g)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- red heart-shaped sprinkle or cinnamon
How to Make Grinch Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients
Use a hand-held mixer or stand mixer to mix together the cake mix, butter, and eggs until well combined.
Step 3: Add Flavors and Colors
Add in the peppermint (or mint) and vanilla extracts along with enough green food coloring to achieve your desired color. Mix on low speed just until combined. The batter will be thick and sticky.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch until fully combined.
Step 5: Scoop and Coat Dough Balls
Scoop the dough with a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop. Roll each cookie dough ball in the powdered sugar mixture to coat. Remember, the dough is sticky! Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Your Cookies
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear dry.
Step 7: Add Sprinkles
Remove the cookies from the oven. Immediately place a heart-shaped sprinkle on each cookie, gently pressing it down so it sticks.
Step 8: Cool Down
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your festive Grinch Cookies!
How to Serve Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are not only a treat but also a festive addition to any holiday gathering. Here are some delightful ideas for serving these colorful cookies that will surely impress your guests.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange the Grinch Cookies on a decorative platter and garnish with festive sprinkles or edible glitter for a fun touch.
Hot Cocoa Pairing
- Serve the cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream. This combination is perfect for chilly winter evenings.
Holiday Gift Bags
- Pack Grinch Cookies in clear gift bags tied with red ribbons. These make great DIY gifts for neighbors and friends during the holiday season.
Cookie Decorating Station
- Set up a cookie decorating station where guests can add their own toppings like chocolate chips or additional sprinkles, turning the cookie experience into an interactive one.
Dessert Table Centerpiece
- Use Grinch Cookies as the centerpiece of your dessert table. Their vibrant color will attract attention and enhance your holiday decorations.
Cookie Sandwiches
- Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of peppermint frosting between two cookies. This adds an extra festive flavor!
How to Perfect Grinch Cookies
To ensure your Grinch Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and appearance.
Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and butter to room temperature ensures better mixing and texture in your cookies.
Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Adjust food coloring wisely: Start with a small amount of green gel food coloring; you can always add more to reach your desired shade without overpowering the cookie batter.
Cool on the baking sheet: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them helps them set properly and prevents breakage.
Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Experiment with toppings: Try different sprinkle shapes or colors, like stars or red noses, to personalize your Grinch Cookies for different occasions.
Best Side Dishes for Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their festive spirit. Here are some delightful options:
Peppermint Bark – A classic holiday treat made with layers of dark and white chocolate, sprinkled with crushed peppermint candy.
Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and kiwis adds a healthy balance to sweet cookies.
Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses, crackers, and nuts for a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet desserts.
Christmas Punch – A fruity holiday punch made with cranberry juice, ginger ale, and citrus slices enhances the festive atmosphere.
Mini Quiches – These bite-sized quiches can be filled with veggies or meats to provide a savory option alongside your sweet treats.
Spiced Nuts – A bowl of spiced mixed nuts offers a crunchy snack that’s easy to prepare and complements sweet flavors well.
Caramel Dip with Apples – Serve sliced apples with caramel dip for a light yet indulgent side dish that balances sweetness.
Holiday Trail Mix – Combine nuts, dried fruits, chocolate pieces, and seasonal candies for an easy snack that guests can munch on alongside their cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grinch Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 375°F. If the temperature is off, your cookies may not bake properly.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. This ensures your cookie dough has the right texture and taste.
- Skipping the chilling step: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before scooping. This will make rolling easier.
- Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them while they bake. Removing them when the edges are set will keep them soft.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Make sure eggs are at room temperature and butter is softened for better mixing and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Grinch Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grinch Cookies
- Place cooled Grinch Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Grinch Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for 5-7 minutes for best results.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds; check often to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Grinch Cookies that might help you.
What are Grinch Cookies?
Grinch Cookies are festive green cookies made with cake mix, perfect for holiday celebrations. They feature a delightful mint flavor and charming decorations.
Can I use other extracts in Grinch Cookies?
Yes! While peppermint extract is traditional, you can use vanilla or almond extract if you prefer different flavors.
How do I customize my Grinch Cookies?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different sprinkles on top to make these cookies unique and cater to your taste preferences.
How long do Grinch Cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Grinch Cookies can stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Grinch Cookies are not only fun and festive but also easy to make! Their vibrant color and delightful flavor make them perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings for a personal touch. Try this recipe today and enjoy the holiday spirit!
Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that will bring joy to any holiday gathering! These vibrant green cookies are not only easy to make but also bursting with the refreshing flavors of peppermint and vanilla. Perfect for cookie platters, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with family, they add a whimsical touch to your Christmas celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green gel food coloring
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Red heart-shaped sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, softened butter, and eggs using a mixer until fully blended.
- Stir in peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and enough green food coloring until the desired shade is reached.
- In another bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and cornstarch.
- Scoop dough into balls using a cookie scoop and roll each in the powdered sugar mixture before placing them on the baking sheet about an inch apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are set.
- After removing from the oven, press a heart-shaped sprinkle onto each cookie while still warm.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
