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Nothing says “holiday baking” like colorful, powdered sugar-dusted Christmas Crinkle Cool Whip Cookies! These soft, chewy cookies are made with just three simple ingredients (plus food coloring) and deliver a stunning crinkle effect that’s perfect for Christmas. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange, need a last-minute dessert, or just want a fun baking project with kids, these cookies are a must-try!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
✅ Only 3 Main Ingredients – Cake mix, Cool Whip, and an egg!
✅ Super Soft & Chewy – The Cool Whip keeps them light and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
✅ Festive & Eye-Catching – Vibrant red and green with a snowy powdered sugar coating.
✅ Quick & Easy – No chilling required, ready in under 30 minutes!
✅ Kid-Friendly – Fun to mix, shape, and decorate!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box (15-18 oz) white cake mix – Any brand works!
- 1 large egg – Binds the dough together.
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed – Adds fluffiness and moisture.
- Red & green food coloring – Gel works best for bold colors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – For that classic crinkle effect.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper (or silicone mats).
2️⃣ Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix cake mix, egg, and Cool Whip until smooth.
- The dough will be sticky and stretchy (like taffy).
3️⃣ Color the Dough
- Divide dough into two bowls.
- Add red food coloring to one bowl, green to the other.
- Mix well until colors are vibrant (gel coloring works best).
4️⃣ Shape the Cookies
- Pour powdered sugar into a shallow bowl.
- Scoop 1-inch dough balls (a small cookie scoop helps).
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated (this creates the crinkles!).
5️⃣ Bake & Cool
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake 10-12 minutes until cookies spread, crack, and are set but still soft inside.
- Let cool 2 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Crinkle Cookies
🎄 Use gel food coloring – More vibrant than liquid!
🎄 Don’t overbake – They should stay soft in the center.
🎄 Coat well in powdered sugar – This ensures deep cracks.
🎄 Store airtight – Keeps them fresh for days!
Variations & Fun Twists
- Peppermint: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the dough.
- Chocolate: Use devil’s food cake mix for chocolate crinkles.
- Lemon or Vanilla: Swap white cake mix for lemon or funfetti!
- Extra Sparkle: Roll in colored sugar instead of powdered sugar.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Keep in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Serve With: Hot cocoa, milk, or as part of a cookie platter!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
❓ Can I use homemade cake mix?
Yes! Substitute with 1¾ cups flour, 1 cup sugar, 1½ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.
❓ Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?
- Not enough powdered sugar.
- Dough was too wet (add a bit more cake mix if needed).
❓ Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Freeze unbaked dough balls and bake when needed.
❓ Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
No, Cool Whip’s stabilizers help the texture.
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Crinkle Cool Whip Cookies are the easiest, most festive holiday cookies you’ll make this season! With their soft centers, crackly sugar coating, and cheerful colors, they’re sure to be a hit at parties, cookie swaps, or as edible gifts. Plus, they’re so simple that even beginner bakers can master them.
🎅 Get baking and spread some holiday cheer! Tag your creations with #ChristmasCrinkleCookies!