Grinch Crinkle Cookies (vegan) Recipe

Nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like a batch of freshly baked cookies, especially when they’re as whimsical and vibrant as these Grinch crinkle cookies. With their lime-green hue and signature red candy hearts, these cookies are a fun, festive nod to the classic Christmas story, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” And the best part? They’re completely vegan, so everyone can enjoy them. Whether you’re baking with kids, whipping up treats for a holiday party, or just looking to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to put a smile on your face (even the Grinch’s heart might grow a size or two!).

I remember the first time I made these cookies—it was during one of those snowy December weekends when staying in and baking feels like the coziest thing you could do. My niece, who’s obsessed with all things Grinch, had come over, and we decided to recreate the character in cookie form. From the lime-green dough that stained our fingers to the little red candies that we carefully pressed into each cookie, it was such a fun afternoon. The best part? Watching her excitement as she took her first bite and declared them her “new favorite cookies ever.” These Grinch crinkle cookies became an instant family tradition.

The story behind these festive cookies

The concept of crinkle cookies isn’t new—they’ve been around for ages, with their crackled, powdered sugar-coated exteriors making them a staple in holiday baking. What makes this version stand out is the playful use of green food coloring and that adorable pop of red in the center, which is, of course, a nod to the Grinch’s famously small but growing heart. They’re the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and just a little mischievous. Over time, recipes like this have been adapted to include vegan ingredients, making them accessible to more people while keeping their festive charm intact.

Let’s talk ingredients: The stars of the show

Every ingredient in these cookies plays an important role in creating their signature taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Self-raising flour: This gives the cookies their lift and lightness. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make your own by mixing 200 g of plain flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
• Vegan margarine: The fat that brings everything together. Look for one with a buttery flavor for the best results. Coconut oil could work in a pinch, but it will slightly alter the flavor.
• Caster sugar: This fine sugar ensures a smooth dough and a perfectly sweet cookie. Granulated sugar works too, but the texture may be a bit grainy.
• Vanilla and lemon extract: These add layers of flavor, with the vanilla providing warmth and the lemon offering a bright, tangy contrast. Don’t have lemon extract? Double up on vanilla or use almond extract for something different.
• Soy milk: Helps bind the dough while keeping it moist. Any plant-based milk (like oat or almond) will work here.
• Lime green food coloring: The star of the show! I recommend using a gel-based color for the most vibrant hue. Adjust the amount for a lighter or more intense green.
• Icing sugar: Creates that classic crinkled effect. Roll your dough generously for the best results.
• Red Skittles (or vegan sweets): These are the “hearts” of the cookies. Make sure your candy is vegan—some brands sneak in non-vegan ingredients like gelatin.

Kitchen gear: What you’ll need to bake these cookies

You don’t need fancy tools to make these cookies, which is another reason they’re so approachable. Here’s what I recommend:

• Mixing bowl: A large one will make it easier to combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon: For mixing the dough—your hands will do the rest!
• Baking tray: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
• Plate: To roll the cookie dough in icing sugar before baking.
• Cooling rack: Essential for letting the cookies cool completely without becoming soggy on the bottom.

Step-by-step: How to make Grinch crinkle cookies

Let’s get baking! I’ll walk you through the process as if we’re in the kitchen together. Don’t worry if you’ve never made crinkle cookies before—they’re easier than you think.

1. Prepare the dough: Start by rubbing the margarine into the self-raising flour in a large bowl. It should resemble breadcrumbs when you’re done. Stir in the caster sugar next.
2. Add the flavor and color: In a small bowl, mix the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and soy milk. Pour this into the dry mixture along with the green food coloring. Use a wooden spoon to combine, then switch to your hands to form a cohesive ball of dough. If the dough feels crumbly, add a splash more soy milk; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
3. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover the bowl, then pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and shaping the cookies more uniform.
4. Shape the cookies: Once chilled, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each one into a ball, then coat it generously in icing sugar. Flatten each ball slightly to form a thick disc.
5. Bake to perfection: Arrange the cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them to spread. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they look puffed and crinkled, with the centers no longer wet.
6. Add the heart: While the cookies are still soft, gently press a red Skittle into the center of each one. Be careful—both the cookies and the baking tray will be hot!
7. Cool completely: Let the cookies cool on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important for their structure.

Fun twists and variations

Feeling creative? Here are some ways to customize your cookies:

• Make them gluten-free: Swap the self-raising flour for a gluten-free blend and add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to help bind the dough.
• Try different colors: Swap the green for red or blue for a new twist (though they won’t look quite as Grinch-like!).
• Use a different “heart”: Vegan chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a dollop of jam would work in place of the Skittles.
• Add holiday spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg could give these cookies a warm, festive flavor.

Serving and presentation ideas

For maximum holiday vibes, serve these cookies on a festive platter with a sprinkle of extra icing sugar “snow.” Add a few green and red decorations for a playful touch. These cookies are perfect for a cookie swap, holiday movie night, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Just wrap them in a decorative box or tin!

What to drink with Grinch cookies?

Pair these sweet, tangy cookies with a cozy beverage like hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. If you’re feeling extra festive, a peppermint mocha or vegan eggnog would also be fantastic.

Storing and reheating tips

These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (without the Skittle) for up to 3 months—just thaw and add the candy before serving. To refresh slightly stale cookies, warm them in the oven at 150°C for a few minutes.

Scaling the recipe for any occasion

Need more cookies? Double or triple the recipe with ease—just mix everything in a larger bowl. For smaller batches, simply halve the ingredients. When scaling up or down, keep an eye on your dough’s consistency and adjust the soy milk or flour as needed.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Cookies didn’t crinkle: Make sure you rolled the dough generously in icing sugar, and don’t skip chilling the dough—it helps create that crinkled effect.
• Dough too sticky: Add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle.
• Skittles cracking: Always press them into the cookies after baking, not before.

Give these cookies a try!

There’s something magical about creating festive treats that bring joy to everyone around you. These Grinch crinkle cookies are a little bit playful, a little bit sweet, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re making them for kids, family, or friends, I hope they become a cherished holiday tradition for you too. Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to see how your cookies turn out!

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend and add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum for structure.

2. What if I don’t have green food coloring?
You can use any food coloring you have on hand, but the lime green is what gives these cookies their signature Grinch look.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Shape the dough into balls and freeze them uncoated. When ready to bake, thaw, roll in icing sugar, and bake as usual.

4. Can I use almond or oat milk instead of soy?
Of course! Any plant-based milk will work in this recipe.

5. How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—it helps retain moisture.

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