Easy Grinch Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. With their vibrant green color and festive heart sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for Christmas cookie trays or as a fun dessert at holiday gatherings. The blend of peppermint and vanilla flavors makes them truly unique, while the use of cake mix ensures a quick and easy preparation. Bake up a batch of Grinch Cookies this season, and watch them disappear in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe uses cake mix, making it simple for bakers of all levels to whip up.
- Festive Appearance: The bright green color and heart-shaped sprinkles make these cookies an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a refreshing taste that perfectly captures the holiday spirit.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for Christmas parties, gift-giving, or just enjoying with family at home.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is an enjoyable activity that kids can help with, making it a perfect holiday project.
Tools and Preparation
To make Grinch Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer: These tools make mixing the dough effortless and ensure even consistency throughout the batter.
- Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop helps shape uniform cookies, which bake evenly and look professional.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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 your oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Use a stand mixer or hand-held mixer to combine the cake mix, butter, and eggs. Mix until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Add Flavors
Add in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and enough green food coloring to achieve your desired shade of green. Mix on low speed just until combined. Expect the batter to be thick and sticky.
Step 4: Prepare Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. This will create a delightful coating for your cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough using a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop. Roll each cookie dough ball in the powdered sugar mixture until fully coated. Place them about one inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until you see that the edges are set and the tops appear dry.
Step 7: Add Sprinkles
Once out of the oven, immediately press a heart-shaped sprinkle onto each cookie. Gently push down so they stick well.
Step 8: Cool Down
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your festive Grinch Cookies!
How to Serve Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are a delightful treat that adds a festive touch to any gathering. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will make your cookie presentation even more special.
On a Festive Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter surrounded by holiday decorations for a cheerful display.
With Hot Cocoa
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat.
As Party Favors
- Package the cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbon and give them as party favors at your holiday gatherings.
On a Dessert Table
- Include Grinch Cookies on your dessert table alongside other holiday sweets like gingerbread and peppermint bark for variety.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm Grinch Cookies with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
How to Perfect Grinch Cookies
Making the perfect Grinch Cookies is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out amazing every time.
- Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smoother batter that blends well, ensuring even baking.
- Don’t overmix the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft, chewy results.
- Adjust baking time – Keep an eye on your cookies; baking times may vary based on your oven’s accuracy. Look for set edges and dry tops.
- Experiment with food coloring – Adjust the amount of green gel food coloring to achieve the desired shade of green for festive flair.
- Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and softness.
- Add chopped chocolate or candies – For extra flavor, mix in chocolate chips or holiday-themed candies into the dough before baking.
Best Side Dishes for Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies can be complemented perfectly with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options that pair well:
- Peppermint Bark – This classic holiday treat combines chocolate layers with crushed peppermint for a refreshing crunch.
- Gingerbread Men – These spiced cookies add a traditional touch to your cookie plate, enhancing the festive spirit.
- Cheesecake Bites – Creamy cheesecake bites offer a rich contrast to the lightness of Grinch Cookies, making them an excellent addition.
- Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of cookies and provide a refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The salty-sweet combination makes these snacks irresistible alongside your festive cookies.
- Eggnog Cupcakes – These moist cupcakes bring holiday flavors together, making them a perfect pairing with Grinch Cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grinch Cookies, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Not using room temperature eggs – Cold eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always use eggs that are at room temperature for best results.
- Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as all ingredients are combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Ignoring the baking time – Baking for too long can make your cookies hard. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them when the edges are set.
- Skipping the cooling time – Removing cookies from the baking sheet too early can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Using too much food coloring – Adding excessive gel food coloring can alter the flavor. Use just enough to achieve your desired green hue without overpowering the taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Grinch Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Grinch Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Grinch Cookies
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 2-3 minutes, keeping them warm and chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re unsure about making Grinch Cookies, here are some common questions answered:
Can I use different extracts in Grinch Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract with other flavors like vanilla or almond extract if you prefer a different taste.
How do I get my Grinch Cookies to be more festive?
You can add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting or cookie dough before baking for extra holiday cheer.
Are Grinch Cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! These delightful cookies make great gifts during the holidays. Just package them nicely in festive containers or tins.
How can I customize my Grinch Cookies?
Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the dough to create your own unique version of these tasty treats!
Final Thoughts
Grinch Cookies are not only fun and festive but also incredibly easy to make! Their vibrant green color and sweet flavor make them perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Give these cheerful cookies a try this Christmas season, and watch them become a family favorite!
Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are a whimsical and festive treat that will brighten up your holiday gatherings! Their vibrant green color, combined with the delightful blend of peppermint and vanilla flavors, makes them an irresistible addition to any dessert table. Easy to prepare using cake mix, these cookies come together quickly and are perfect for cookie exchanges, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with family. With heart-shaped sprinkles on top, they not only taste amazing but also look cheerful and inviting. Bake a batch of Grinch Cookies this holiday season, and watch as they become a delightful favorite among friends and family!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- 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 your 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 well blended.
- Add peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring. Mix on low speed until combined; the batter will be thick.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and cornstarch for coating.
- Scoop dough into balls using a cookie scoop, roll in the powdered sugar mixture, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set; then press heart sprinkles onto warm cookies.
- Cool for five minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
