Easy Grinch Cookies are a delightful treat that will bring joy to your holiday gatherings. These festive cookies not only look stunning with their vibrant green color but also pack a delicious minty flavor. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a batch of Grinch Cookies in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Festively Fun: The bright green color and heart-shaped sprinkles give these cookies a whimsical touch that captures the spirit of Christmas.
- Minty Flavor Delight: The combination of peppermint extract and vanilla creates a refreshing taste that balances perfectly with the sweetness.
- Great for Sharing: With 30 cookies per batch, these treats are ideal for sharing on cookie plates or giving as gifts.
- Versatile Treats: While they shine during the holidays, these Grinch Cookies can be enjoyed year-round for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Grinch Cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand-held mixer: These tools save you time and effort when mixing the dough thoroughly.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to organize ingredients easily while preparing your cookie batter.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 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
For Coating
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (32 g)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
For Decoration
- 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 white cake mix, softened butter, and room temperature eggs until well blended.
Step 3: Add Flavorings and Color
Incorporate the peppermint (or mint) extract, vanilla extract, and enough green gel food coloring to reach your desired shade. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined; expect thick and sticky dough.
Step 4: Prepare Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch to create a light coating for the cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough with a cookie scoop. Roll each ball in the powdered sugar mixture until fully coated. Place them about one inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until you see that the edges have set and the tops appear dry.
Step 7: Add Sprinkles
Once baked, remove from the oven. Immediately press a red heart-shaped sprinkle into each cookie while they are still warm so that it sticks properly.
Step 8: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Grinch Cookies!
How to Serve Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience this Christmas.
On a Festive Cookie Platter
- Create a vibrant cookie platter with Grinch Cookies surrounded by other holiday treats, like peppermint bark and sugar cookies. This colorful display will impress your guests.
Pair with Hot Cocoa
- Serve Grinch Cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. The minty flavor of the cookies complements the rich cocoa perfectly.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual Grinch Cookies in festive cellophane bags tied with a red ribbon. These make delightful party favors that guests can take home and enjoy later.
During Movie Night
- Set up a cozy movie night with classic Christmas films and serve Grinch Cookies as the main snack. The fun green color adds a festive touch to your viewing experience.
At Holiday Cookie Exchanges
- Bring your Grinch Cookies to cookie exchanges where their unique appearance will stand out. They are sure to be a hit among fellow bakers and cookie lovers.
How to Perfect Grinch Cookies
To make your Grinch Cookies even more delightful, consider these simple tips for perfection.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough.
Adjust Food Coloring: Start with a small amount of green gel food coloring, adding more until you achieve the desired shade of green for your cookies.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and roll.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be soft in the center but set at the edges. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Best Side Dishes for Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies can shine even brighter when paired with the right side dishes. Consider these delightful options to serve alongside them during your holiday festivities.
Peppermint Bark: A sweet and crunchy treat made from layers of chocolate, perfect for complementing the minty flavor of Grinch Cookies.
Eggnog: This creamy holiday drink pairs wonderfully with cookies, offering a rich flavor that contrasts well with the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness of cookies. Include savory options like cheddar and brie alongside fruits and nuts.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to sweet treats. Use seasonal fruits like cranberries, oranges, and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their Grinch Cookies into melted chocolate, enhancing their flavor and fun factor.
Nut Mix: Provide a bowl of spiced nuts as a crunchy counterpart to soft cookies. The savory flavors will create an enjoyable balance on your dessert table.
Mini Cupcakes: Decorate mini cupcakes in holiday colors; they can be a great addition that complements your Grinch-themed dessert spread nicely.
Holiday Punch: Serve a refreshing non-alcoholic punch garnished with fresh fruit slices or cranberries for a festive beverage option alongside your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Grinch Cookies can be a joyous experience, but some common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are key errors to steer clear of:
- Not measuring ingredients properly – Accurate measurements ensure consistent results. Always use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Skipping room temperature eggs – Cold eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing them in.
- Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Ignoring baking times – Each oven is different; keep an eye on your cookies. Check them a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
- Underestimating cooling time – Cooling on the baking sheet is essential. Allowing them to cool slightly prevents them from falling apart when transferring to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Grinch Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Freezing Grinch Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grinch Cookies
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; keep an eye to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Grinch Cookies that might help you perfect your baking!
What are Grinch Cookies?
Grinch Cookies are festive green cookies made with cake mix, butter, and mint extracts. They often feature heart-shaped sprinkles!
How do I make Grinch Cookies chewy?
To achieve a chewy texture, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the center looks slightly undercooked.
Can I customize my Grinch Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or swap out extracts for different flavors like almond or vanilla.
How long do Grinch Cookies last?
When stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container for about one week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Grinch Cookies are not only easy to make but also bring festive joy and color to your holiday celebrations. Their delightful flavor makes them perfect for sharing with friends and family. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or sprinkles—make this recipe your own!
Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are the perfect festive treat for your holiday gatherings! These delightful mint-flavored cookies boast a vibrant green color that embodies the spirit of Christmas. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these whimsical cookies that are sure to impress friends and family at cookie exchanges or holiday parties. The combination of peppermint and vanilla extracts creates a refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with heart-shaped sprinkles for decoration. Whether enjoyed at home or shared as gifts, Grinch Cookies will add joy and cheer to any celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green gel food coloring
- Red heart-shaped sprinkles
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, and room temperature eggs until blended.
- Add peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and green gel food coloring until the desired shade is reached; mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and cornstarch for coating.
- Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough, roll in the powdered sugar mixture, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set; press heart-shaped sprinkles into warm cookies.
- Cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
