There’s something undeniably magical about the holidays—the twinkling lights, cozy evenings by the fire, and of course, the abundance of festive treats. But if you’re looking for a cookie recipe that combines whimsy, fun, and downright deliciousness, let me introduce you to Grinch Cookies. Inspired by the iconic green holiday grump, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.
The soft, chewy texture of these cookies makes them irresistible, while the refreshing hint of peppermint adds a festive twist. And let’s not forget the star of the show: the little red heart sprinkle that transforms these cookies into something truly special. If the Grinch can grow his heart three sizes, then surely, these cookies will make yours grow at least one.
Why I Love This Recipe
Every year, my family and I have a baking marathon as part of our holiday traditions. It’s messy, loud, and full of laughter—and these Grinch cookies are always the first on our list. My kids love rolling the bright green dough in powdered sugar and pressing the tiny red hearts into the cookies. By the end of the day, we’re covered in green food coloring and powdered sugar, but it’s all worth it for the memories (and the cookies).
These cookies also make the perfect edible gift. Package them up in cute boxes or bags, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade present that’ll warm anyone’s heart. Whether you’re making these for a family movie night, a holiday cookie exchange, or just because you need a sweet treat, Grinch cookies never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love These Grinch Cookies
Still not convinced these cookies are for you? Let me break it down:
1. Quick and Easy
The secret to these cookies is starting with a box of white cake mix. It simplifies the process, meaning you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.
2. Soft and Chewy
The texture is everything. These cookies have perfectly soft centers and slightly crisp edges—a combo that’ll keep you coming back for more.
3. Festive and Fun
The vibrant green color and red heart topping make these cookies a showstopper. They’re sure to be a hit at any holiday party.
4. Minty Fresh Flavor
The subtle peppermint flavor is just enough to give you that classic holiday vibe without being overpowering.
5. Kid-Friendly
This is the ultimate family baking recipe. Even little ones can get involved, rolling dough and decorating with hearts.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:
- 15.25 ounces (432 g) white cake mix: This is the base of the cookie dough and ensures a soft, tender texture.
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: These bind the dough and contribute to the chewy texture.
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract: The key to that cool, minty flavor. You can substitute with mint extract if preferred.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Green gel food coloring: Gives the cookies their signature Grinch-like hue. Gel coloring works best for vibrant results.
- ¼ cup (32 g) powdered sugar: For rolling the dough and creating a festive, crackled coating.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps the powdered sugar stick and adds a snowy effect.
- Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon candies: The little “Grinch hearts” that bring the cookies to life.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, and eggs.
- Use a hand-held or stand mixer on medium speed to mix until well incorporated. The dough will be thick and sticky.
- Add the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a few drops of green gel food coloring.
- Start with a small amount of food coloring and gradually add more until you achieve a bright, festive green.
- Mix on low speed until the dough is evenly colored.
3: Prepare the Powdered Sugar Coating
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. This will form the coating for the cookies.
4: Shape and Coat the Dough
- Use a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
- Roll each portion into a ball with your hands.
- Tip: If the dough feels too sticky to handle, lightly flour your hands or chill the dough for 10-15 minutes.
- Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear dry.
- The cookies should still be soft when you remove them—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a red heart sprinkle or cinnamon candy into the center of each cookie.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve
These Grinch cookies are versatile and perfect for various occasions:
- Holiday Movie Night: Serve with hot cocoa or warm milk while watching “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
- Christmas Parties: Display them on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread or sugar cookies.
- Gifting: Wrap them in decorative cellophane bags or tins to give as thoughtful holiday gifts.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grinch Cookies
- Chill Sticky Dough: If the dough is too sticky to roll, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel works best for vibrant colors without adding too much liquid.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when slightly underbaked to keep them soft and chewy.
- Heart Placement: Press the red hearts gently into the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven while they’re still warm.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free white cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Extra Minty: Add crushed candy canes to the dough for an extra peppermint crunch.
- Chocolate Grinch: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
- Color Swaps: Use red or blue gel food coloring for a festive twist.
Freezing and Storage
- To Store: Once cooled, place cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- To Freeze (Unbaked): Roll the dough into balls (without the powdered sugar coating) and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Coat in powdered sugar and bake as directed when ready.
- To Freeze (Baked): Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different flavor extract?
A: Yes! Almond or coconut extract would also pair well with these cookies.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I skip the powdered sugar coating?
A: You can, but the coating adds a beautiful crackled effect and a touch of sweetness.
Q: What if I don’t have red heart sprinkles?
A: Small red candies or dots of red icing can work as substitutes.
Conclusion
Grinch cookies are more than just a holiday treat—they’re a symbol of festive joy, fun family traditions, and a little bit of whimsy. Whether you’re baking with kids, making gifts for loved ones, or simply indulging in the spirit of the season, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make some Grinch cookies that’ll warm even the frostiest of hearts! Don’t forget to share your creations—tag me on social media so I can see your festive masterpieces. Happy baking! 🎄💚
Print
Grinch Cookies: A Sweet Holiday Treat to Steal Your Heart
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive, minty green cookies inspired by the Grinch, topped with a red heart sprinkle. Perfect for holiday baking and gifting.
Ingredients
- 15.25 oz white cake mix
- – 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- – 2 large eggs, room temperature
- – 2 tsp peppermint extract
- – ½ tsp vanilla extract
- – Green gel food coloring
- – ¼ cup powdered sugar
- – 3 tbsp cornstarch
- – Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon candie
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix cake mix, butter, and eggs until combined.
3. Add extracts and food coloring; mix well.
4. Roll dough into balls, coat in powdered sugar and cornstarch mix.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes.
6. Press a red heart sprinkle into each cookie immediately after baking. Cool before serving.
Notes
Chill sticky dough for 10 minutes if needed.
– Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
– Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American