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Grinch Cookies

Grinch Cookies

Festive and fun, these Grinch Cookies are bright green, chewy, and full of holiday cheer. They are quick and simple to make with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, decorated to mimic the mischievous Grinch, making them ideal for gifting or cozy winter snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter for vegan option)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Green food coloring, as needed for vibrant color

Optional Add-Ins & Decorations

  • ½ cup chocolate chips or candy eyes
  • Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg (½ teaspoon each for spiced twist)
  • Optional: finely chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup for nutty delight)
  • Optional: white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light, fluffy, and creamy to create the perfect chewy texture.
  4. Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Green Coloring: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Gradually add green food coloring until you reach a vibrant Grinch-green shade.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
  6. Fold in Optional Add-ins: Gently fold in chocolate chips or candy eyes if using, reserving some for decorating the tops.
  7. Shape and Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly press reserved candy eyes or chocolate chips onto each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures a chewy interior with a firm edge.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the dough to prevent tough cookies.
  • Add food coloring gradually to avoid artificial taste and achieve perfect hue.
  • For thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cookie removal and even baking.
  • To maintain chewiness, avoid overbaking and consider chilling dough.
  • Decorate with colored icing, sprinkles, or candy red noses for extra festive charm.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Freeze baked cookies between parchment sheets in sealed bags for up to three months.
  • Reheat gently in microwave (10-15 seconds) or oven (300°F for a few minutes) to refresh chewiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Holiday Cookies, Grinch Cookies, Christmas Cookies, Chewy Cookies, Festive Treats, Green Cookies, Kid-friendly Baking