Mexican Crinkle Cookies
Get ready for a delightful treat that marries rich chocolate flavor with a spicy kick! These Mexican Crinkle Cookies are not your average cookies; they are a unique twist on the classic crinkle cookie, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of cayenne pepper. With their fudgy texture and beautiful powdered sugar coating, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy night in.
Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these cookies are a fantastic way to explore the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine while satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Mexican Crinkle Cookies are adored for their incredible flavor combination and stunning appearance. The addition of spices such as cinnamon and cayenne pepper elevates the traditional chocolate flavor, making each bite a celebration of taste. Not only are they visually appealing with their crinkled tops dusted in powdered sugar, but their soft and chewy texture creates a satisfying experience.
Home bakers love how simple yet rewarding the recipe is, as it requires commonplace ingredients that are easy to find. Plus, the cookies can be made in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just want to treat yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
What’s in the Bowl
To create these delightful Mexican Crinkle Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons instant coffee granules, not coffee grounds
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors, providing a rich, chocolatey base with a hint of warmth from the spices.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you get started, gather the following tools:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Whisk: For mixing wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking!
- Cookie Sheet: A flat baking tray for your cookies.
- Parchment Paper: To line your cookie sheet for easy removal and cleanup.
- Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies to perfection.
With these tools at your disposal, you’re set for a fun baking session!
Mexican Crinkle Cookies Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and instant coffee granules. Mix until well combined. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. This step ensures there are no lumps and that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep the cookies tender!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls of dough about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until generously coated.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should appear crinkled and slightly soft in the center.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Crinkle Cookies!
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps
If you’re looking to make these cookies dairy-free or gluten-free, here are some simple swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based oil or dairy-free alternative for any dairy ingredients (though this recipe doesn’t require dairy).
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
These adaptations allow everyone to enjoy the deliciousness of Mexican Crinkle Cookies!
Pro Tips & Notes
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch more cayenne pepper, but be cautious—it packs a punch!
- Ensure your cocoa powder is unsweetened for the best results.
- Don’t overbake! The cookies may look underdone, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.
- These cookies freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Mexican Crinkle Cookies fresh:
- Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their delightful softness.
Helpful Q&A
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before shaping.
What if I don’t have instant coffee granules?
If you don’t have instant coffee, you can substitute it with espresso powder or simply omit it. The cookies will still be delicious without it, though the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Cookies may spread if your dough is too warm or if you didn’t chill it long enough. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before baking!
Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Certainly! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the total volume to maintain the cookie’s integrity.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the tools and tips to create these amazing Mexican Crinkle Cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills, and the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies will fill your kitchen. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.
With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of chocolatey richness, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat. Enjoy this unique and delectable cookie recipe that showcases the wonderful flavors of Mexican cuisine. Happy baking!
Mexican Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and instant coffee granules. Mix until well combined. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients - In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. This step ensures there are no lumps and that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep the cookies tender!
- Step 5: Chill the Dough - Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
- Step 6: Shape the Cookies - Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls of dough about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until generously coated.
- Step 7: Bake the Cookies - Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should appear crinkled and slightly soft in the center.
- Step 8: Cool and Enjoy - Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Crinkle Cookies!
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch more cayenne pepper, but be cautious—it packs a punch!
- Ensure your cocoa powder is unsweetened for the best results.
- Don’t overbake! The cookies may look underdone, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.
- These cookies freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
