Easy Brownie Crinkle Cookies: Your Go-To Fudgy Chocolate Delight

Dive into the decadent world of Brownie Crinkle Cookies, where the rich, melt-in-your-mouth fudginess of a classic brownie meets the delightful, crackled charm of a holiday cookie. Rolled generously in powdered sugar, these irresistible treats bake up with a beautiful, snowy exterior that contrasts perfectly with their deep, dark chocolate core. What makes this particular brownie cookie recipe truly exceptional is its simplicity: it starts with a convenient brownie mix, transforming a pantry staple into a gourmet dessert with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these easy-to-make cookies are guaranteed to deliver impressive results, making them perfect for any occasion – from casual weeknight indulgence to festive gatherings.

What Are These Delightful Brownie Crinkle Cookies?

At their heart, Brownie Crinkle Cookies are a sensational hybrid, combining the best textural and flavor elements of both a brownie and a cookie. They capture the intense chocolate flavor and dense, chewy-fudgy interior that brownie lovers crave, all within a portable, handheld cookie format. The defining characteristic, and namesake, of these cookies is their stunning “crinkle” effect. This distinctive appearance is achieved by generously rolling the balls of cookie dough in powdered sugar before baking. As the cookies expand in the heat of the oven, the powdered sugar coating resists stretching, causing it to crack into beautiful, intricate patterns. These cracks expose the rich, dark chocolate dough underneath, creating a striking visual contrast that is both elegant and inviting.

Unlike traditional cookies that might be more cakey or crisp, Brownie Crinkle Cookies offer a unique experience: a slightly firm, sweet crust from the powdered sugar, a delightful crunch where the “crinkles” are most prominent, and then a supremely soft, moist, and wonderfully fudgy center. This recipe, crafted with a brownie mix, simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the decadent flavor or texture, making homemade brownie cookies accessible to everyone.

Why This Easy Brownie Crinkle Cookie Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Beyond their stunning appearance and incredible taste, there are several compelling reasons why these fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection:

• Uncomplicated Baking: Starting with a pre-packaged brownie mix significantly streamlines the baking process. It cuts down on the number of ingredients you need to measure and reduces overall prep time, making it perfect for busy individuals or impromptu baking sessions.
• Deep Chocolate Indulgence: These cookies pack a serious chocolate punch. The fudge brownie mix ensures an intensely rich, cocoa-forward flavor that will satisfy even the most ardent chocolate cravings.
• Irresistible Fudgy Texture: Forget dry, crumbly cookies! These are designed to be wonderfully moist, chewy, and gloriously fudgy in the center, mimicking the best qualities of a freshly baked brownie.
• Visually Stunning: The signature powdered sugar crinkles are not just tasty; they make these cookies incredibly appealing. They look elegant enough for special occasions but are simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
• Versatile and Adaptable: While fantastic on their own, this recipe is a blank canvas for customization. Easily add different chocolate chips, nuts, or flavor extracts to create your unique twist.
• Always a Crowd-Pleaser: From school events to holiday parties, these brownie crinkle cookies are universally adored. Their rich flavor and charming appearance make them an instant hit with both children and adults.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fudgy Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards baking these amazing brownie cookies. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and the role each component plays:

• Fudge Brownie Mix (1 box, for a 9×13 pan): This is your secret weapon for speed and convenience. Choose a high-quality fudge brownie mix, as its inherent flavor and texture will be the foundation of your cookies. Brands like Ghirardelli, Betty Crocker, or Duncan Hines are popular choices that typically deliver excellent results. Ensure you select a mix intended for a 9×13-inch pan, as the proportions of dry ingredients in smaller boxes might alter the dough consistency needed for cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): While brownie mixes contain flour, adding an extra cup of all-purpose flour is critical for cookie success. This additional flour helps to thicken the dough, giving it more structure. Without it, the cookies would spread excessively during baking, resulting in flat, less satisfying results. It also shifts the texture from a cakey brownie to a more substantial, chewy cookie.
• Large Egg (1): The egg acts as a primary binder, emulsifying the fats and liquids and bringing all the ingredients together. It contributes to the cookie’s structure, richness, and moisture content, ensuring a soft and chewy interior.
• Water (½ cup): Water provides the necessary liquid to hydrate the dry components of the brownie mix and added flour, forming a cohesive dough. While water works perfectly, you can experiment with milk for a slightly richer dough or even a small amount of brewed coffee to subtly enhance the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
• Oil (¼ cup): Oil is essential for contributing to the fudgy texture and overall moisture of the cookies. Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent neutral choices that won’t interfere with the rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer, melted coconut oil can also be used, offering a subtle hint of coconut and a lovely texture. Just ensure it’s melted and slightly cooled before adding it to the batter to prevent any premature cooking of the egg.
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup, optional): These are not strictly necessary but are highly recommended for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and delightful texture. They melt into pockets of warm chocolate, intensifying the brownie experience. Feel free to substitute with milk chocolate, dark chocolate chunks, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Powdered Sugar (¼ – ½ cup): This ingredient is non-negotiable for achieving the signature “crinkle” look. Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar) is finely milled and contains a small amount of cornstarch, which prevents caking and helps it adhere to the dough. As the cookies bake, this sugary coating cracks, revealing the dark brownie dough beneath. You’ll need enough to thoroughly coat each cookie ball, so prepare a generous amount. Do not substitute with granulated sugar; it will not produce the same crinkle effect.

How to Make Brownie Crinkle Cookies: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these straightforward instructions to create a batch of perfect fudgy brownie crinkle cookies:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating is essential for even baking and achieving that perfect crinkle.
2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line a large baking sheet (or two, if you have them) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your cookies.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire package of fudge brownie mix, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 large egg, ½ cup of water, and ¼ cup of oil.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Use a sturdy spoon, spatula, or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to mix these ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. The dough will be thick, sticky, and resemble a very dense brownie batter. Important: Do not overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to tougher cookies.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently stir in the 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Shape and Coat

6. Scoop Dough: Use a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This helps ensure your cookies are uniform in size, which promotes even baking.
7. Roll into Balls: Lightly roll each scooped portion of dough between your palms to form smooth, round balls. If the dough is too sticky, slightly dampen your hands or chill the dough for 15-20 minutes.
8. Prepare Powdered Sugar: Pour about ½ cup of powdered sugar onto a shallow plate or into a bowl wide enough to roll the cookie dough balls.
9. Coat Generously: Drop each rolled dough ball into the powdered sugar. Roll it around until it is completely and very generously coated. The thicker the layer of powdered sugar, the more dramatic and defined your crinkles will be. Don’t be shy here! For extra crinkle power, you can even roll them a second time.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. They will spread slightly, so leaving enough space is important.
11. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes. The exact baking time can vary by oven. The cookies are ready when the edges appear set but the centers still look slightly soft and puffed. The golden rule for fudgy cookies: DO NOT OVERBAKE! Overbaking will result in dry, cakey cookies instead of chewy, fudgy ones.
12. Cooling: Once removed from the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up gently without breaking apart.
13. Transfer to Wire Rack: After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the warm brownie crinkle cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack ensures air circulates around the entire cookie, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy and locking in that wonderful fudgy texture.

Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Brownie Crinkle Cookies are rich, fudgy cookies that are rolled in powdered sugar. Made with a brownie mix, this delicious brownie cookie recipe is so easy to make!

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Course: Cookies

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 24 cookies

Calories: 171kcal

Author: Jessica & Nellie

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Ingredients 

• 1 package fudge brownie mix for a 9X13 pan
• 1 cup flour
• 1 egg
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup oil
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• powdered sugar

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°.
• In a large bowl, combine brownie mix, flour, egg, water, and oil. Mix well. Stir in chocolate chips. Use a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop to scoop the dough and use your hands to roll into balls.
• Place about ½ cup powdered sugar on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Drop the rolled balls of dough into the powdered sugar and roll to coat completely.
• Place the balls of cookie dough about 2 inches apart on a cookie sheet that is lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the centers are set. Don’t overbake! Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 171kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 60mg | Potassium: 51mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Mention @familycookierecipes or tag #familycookierecipes!

Pro Tips for Baking Your Best Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Even though this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips can help you achieve brownie crinkle cookie perfection every time:

• Avoid Overmixing: This is a golden rule for most baked goods, especially for fudgy cookies. Mix the dough only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, fudgy ones.
• Chill the Dough for Better Crinkles: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, or if your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before rolling. Chilled dough is easier to handle, helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, and can result in more defined crinkles.
• Be Generous with Powdered Sugar: Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar coating! A thick, uniform layer of powdered sugar is crucial for creating pronounced, beautiful crinkles. If the coating is too thin, it may simply melt into the cookie. A double roll in the sugar can ensure maximum crinkle effect.
• The Secret to Fudginess: Don’t Overbake! This cannot be stressed enough. For that desirable fudgy center, it’s always better to slightly underbake your cookies. They will continue to cook and set on the hot baking sheet after being removed from the oven. Look for edges that are set but centers that still look a little soft.
• Use a Cookie Scoop for Consistency: A tablespoon-sized cookie scoop ensures that each cookie dough ball is uniform in size. This not only makes your cookies look professional but also guarantees that they bake evenly, preventing some from being overdone while others are still raw.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat is Key: Always line your baking sheets. This prevents the cookies from sticking, makes for incredibly easy cleanup, and helps the cookies achieve a more even bake without overly browning the bottoms.
• Choose a Quality Brownie Mix: While any brownie mix will work, investing in a good quality fudge brownie mix can significantly enhance the deep chocolate flavor and overall fudginess of your cookies.

Creative Variations and Customizations for Your Crinkle Cookies

This brownie crinkle cookie recipe is a fantastic base, but don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize your batch with these exciting variations:

• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even roasted almonds to the dough along with the chocolate chips for added texture and a delicious nutty flavor.
• Flavor Extracts: Elevate the chocolate experience with a few drops of extract. A ½ teaspoon of pure peppermint extract creates delightful Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Almond extract offers a sophisticated touch, while a dash of orange zest can brighten the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• Candy Mix-Ins: Make them extra fun by folding in your favorite chopped candies! Mini M&M’s, crushed Oreos, peanut butter cups, or even bits of toffee will add bursts of flavor and texture.
• Different Chocolate Types: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or chunks. Use dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor, milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, or white chocolate chips for a striking visual contrast and creamy melt.
• Spicy Chocolate: For a Mexican hot chocolate-inspired twist, add a tiny pinch (⅛ to ¼ teaspoon) of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry ingredients. The subtle heat perfectly complements the rich chocolate.
• Double Chocolate Crinkle: For an even darker, richer crinkle effect, mix a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder into your powdered sugar before rolling the dough balls. This creates a more pronounced chocolate coating that still crinkles beautifully.

How to Properly Store Brownie Crinkle Cookies for Maximum Freshness

To keep your delicious brownie crinkle cookies tasting their best and maintaining their beautiful appearance, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines:

• Cool Completely: This step is non-negotiable! Before storing, ensure your cookies have cooled entirely on a wire rack. Any residual warmth will create condensation inside the storage container, causing the delicate powdered sugar coating to dissolve into a sticky, unappealing mess.
• Airtight Container: Once fully cooled, transfer the cookies to an airtight container. This is crucial for preventing them from drying out and helping to maintain their soft, fudgy texture.
• Room Temperature Storage: Brownie Crinkle Cookies will remain fresh and delightfully fudgy at room temperature for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Keep them away from direct sunlight or excessive heat.
• Layering: If you need to stack multiple layers of cookies within your container, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer. This prevents them from sticking together and helps protect the powdered sugar coating.

Can I Freeze Brownie Crinkle Cookies? Yes! Here’s How

These cookies are excellent candidates for freezing, whether baked or as dough. Freezing allows you to enjoy them fresh over a longer period or have homemade treats ready at a moment’s notice.

Freezing Baked Brownie Crinkle Cookies:

1. Cool Completely: Just like for regular storage, ensure your cookies are 100% cool before freezing. This prevents ice crystals from forming and damaging the texture.
2. Prepare for Freezing: Place the cooled cookies in an airtight, freezer-safe container. For best results and to prevent sticking, layer the cookies with parchment paper or wax paper between each layer.
3. Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. If the powdered sugar coating has absorbed somewhat during freezing and thawing, you can gently re-roll them in a fresh dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to revive their iconic look.

Freezing Unbaked Brownie Crinkle Cookie Dough Balls:

This is a fantastic option for having fresh-baked cookies whenever the craving strikes!

1. Prepare Dough: Mix the dough as instructed, scoop it into balls, and roll them generously in powdered sugar.
2. Flash Freeze: Place the coated dough balls in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Flash freeze them for 1-2 hours, or until completely solid.
3. Store: Once solid, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Baking from Frozen: When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet (no need to thaw!). You may need to add an extra 1-3 minutes to the baking time, so keep a close eye on them until the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brownie Crinkle Cookies

Can I make these brownie crinkle cookies from scratch instead of a mix?

Yes, you absolutely can make crinkle cookies from scratch! However, this specific recipe is designed to be a quick and easy shortcut using a brownie mix. If you prefer a from-scratch approach, you would need to find a fudgy brownie recipe that can be adapted into a cookie dough consistency by adding extra flour and adjusting liquids.

Why aren’t my brownie crinkle cookies crinkling properly?

Several factors can affect the crinkle:

• Insufficient Powdered Sugar: The most common reason! You need a very thick, generous coating of powdered sugar. A thin layer will simply absorb into the dough and won’t crack.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too wet (perhaps too little added flour, or if your brownie mix was for a smaller pan), the cookies might spread too quickly and broadly, preventing the crinkles from forming. Chilling the dough can help.
• Overbaking: If cookies bake for too long, they set too quickly before the crinkles have a chance to properly develop.
• Humidity: High humidity can sometimes cause the powdered sugar to dissolve more quickly.

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar for the coating?

No, it’s strongly recommended to use powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar). Granulated sugar is too coarse and will not adhere to the dough effectively, nor will it create the delicate, crackled effect. Powdered sugar’s fine texture and inclusion of cornstarch are essential for the signature crinkle and snowy appearance.

What’s the best type of oil to use for these brownie crinkle cookies?

Neutral-flavored oils like vegetable oil or canola oil are ideal as they provide moisture and fudginess without altering the chocolate flavor. Melted coconut oil is also a great option if you enjoy a subtle tropical hint; just make sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much on the baking sheet?

To prevent excessive spreading:

• Ensure you’ve accurately measured the extra flour.
• Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before rolling and baking.
• Make sure your oven temperature is accurate (an oven thermometer is a handy tool).
• Always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; do not grease the baking sheet directly.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, leave ample space between cookies.

More Delicious Brownie and Cookie Recipes to Explore

If these easy and fudgy brownie crinkle cookies have captured your heart, you’ll surely love these other delightful recipes that blend the best of brownies and cookies:

• Caramel Brownie Thumbprint Cookies
• Mint Chocolate Brownie Cookies
• Oreo Stuffed Brownie Cookies
• Cosmic Brownie Cookies
• Frosted Brownie Cookies
• Triple Chocolate Brownies
• Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies
• Best Brownie Cookies
• Caramel Brownie Cookies
• Easy Black Forest Brownies
• Easy Brownie Cookies
• Frosted Double Chocolate Cookies
• Oatmeal Cookie Brownie Bars
• Raspberry Skillet Brownies

Indulge in the Magic of Brownie Crinkle Cookies Today!

In conclusion, these Brownie Crinkle Cookies stand out as a truly exceptional treat that beautifully marries the deep, satisfying flavor of a fudgy brownie with the delightful texture and festive appearance of a classic crinkle cookie. Their sheer ease of preparation, thanks to the smart use of a brownie mix, makes them an accessible joy for bakers of every experience level. From the initial mix to the final cooling on a wire rack, this recipe promises a straightforward process culminating in irresistible results. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of chewy edges, a soft, rich interior, and that characteristic powdered sugar crackle that makes them so visually appealing. Whether you’re seeking a quick dessert to satisfy a chocolate craving, an impressive item for a potluck, or a charming addition to your holiday cookie platter, this easy brownie cookie recipe is your ticket to a world of decadent, homemade goodness. Don’t hesitate – gather your ingredients and create your batch of these unforgettable fudgy delights today!