Red and Green Crinkle Cookies

If you’ve ever searched for Red and Green Crinkle Cookies that look festive and don’t require a full day in the kitchen, friend—you’ve landed in the right place.

These cookies are soft, chewy, snowy with powdered sugar, and bursting with Christmas cheer. They’re the kind of treat that makes kids hover near the oven and adults “accidentally” grab just one more. Best of all? They start with a box of cake mix, which means less stress and more joy. And honestly, during the holidays, we all deserve that win.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, a classroom party, or a cozy night in with a Hallmark movie playing in the background, these cookies check every box: easy, festive, and downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Red and Green Crinkle Cookies

Let me count the ways—because there are plenty.

• Quick and forgiving: No fancy mixers or complicated steps
• Perfect for busy schedules: Minimal prep, maximum payoff
• Holiday-approved: Bright red and green colors scream Christmas
• Soft centers, crackly tops: The dream cookie texture
• Kid-friendly: Little hands love rolling dough in powdered sugar

These Christmas Crinkle Cookies are especially great if baking feels overwhelming this time of year. Trust me, I’ve been there—between shopping lists, school events, and life in general, simple recipes feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes these cookies so approachable:

• 1 box white cake mix (13.25 oz)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
• Red gel food coloring
• Green gel food coloring

Optional but lovely add-ins:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

That’s it. No flour clouds. No measuring drama. Just simple ingredients doing magical things.

How to Make Red and Green Crinkle Cookies (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until a thick, smooth dough forms. It’ll feel sticky—that’s exactly what you want.

Step 2: Divide and Color

Split the dough evenly into two bowls. Add red gel food coloring to one and green to the other. Mix until the colors are vibrant and even. Gel coloring works best here—it gives bold color without thinning the dough.

Step 3: Chill (Don’t Skip This!)

Cover both bowls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape.

Step 4: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Future you will appreciate the easy cleanup.

Step 5: Roll the Dough

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Then roll it generously in powdered sugar until fully coated—don’t be shy here. That thick coating is what creates the crinkle effect.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the tops crack and the edges look set. The centers should still look soft.

Step 7: Cool

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

And just like that—you’ve got bakery-worthy Red and Green Crinkle Cookies without breaking a sweat.

Helpful Baking Tips (From My Real-Life Kitchen)

• Sticky dough? Chill it a bit longer. No stress.
• Powdered sugar disappearing? Roll twice for extra coverage.
• Uneven baking? Rotate the pan halfway through.
• Overbaking fear? Pull them early. Soft centers are the goal, not a crunch fest.

One year, I got distracted wrapping gifts and left a batch in too long. They were still eaten—but let’s just say the “soft and chewy” title was questionable. Learn from me.

A Little Holiday Memory From My Kitchen

These cookies became a tradition after I needed a last-minute dessert for a school holiday party. I was tired, short on time, and honestly not in the mood for complicated baking. I grabbed a cake mix, added some color, and hoped for the best.

The result? Empty plates and three parents asking for the recipe. Since then, these Christmas Crinkle Cookies have been my go-to every December. Sometimes simple really is best.

FAQs About Christmas Crinkle Cookies

Let’s Keep the Holiday Magic Going

If you’re looking for a festive treat that feels joyful—not stressful—Red and Green Crinkle Cookies are the answer. They’re cheerful, dependable, and just plain fun to make. Whether you’re baking with kids, friends, or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, these cookies bring that warm holiday feeling right into your kitchen.

From my home to yours, I hope these cookies add a little sparkle to your season. Happy baking—and don’t forget to save one just for you.

Keep the Christmas Baking Fun Going!

If you’re already in full holiday baking mode, why stop at just one treat? These Red and Green Crinkle Cookies pair perfectly with a few other festive favorites that readers on Chicken Magic Recipes absolutely love. To help you build the ultimate Christmas spread (without extra stress), here are some cozy, fun ideas to try next:

• Santa’s Favorite Christmas Cookies – A classic, crowd-pleasing cookie that’s perfect for gift boxes, cookie swaps, or leaving out for Santa on Christmas Eve.
• Grinch Popcorn Mix – Sweet, crunchy, and kid-approved, this no-bake treat is ideal for movie nights or last-minute holiday parties.
• Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies – Soft, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—these are a must if you love easy cake-mix cookies like this one.
• Gluten-Free Gingerdoodle Cookies – A warm, spiced option that lets everyone at the table enjoy a festive cookie, no matter their dietary needs.

If you tried these Red and Green Crinkle Cookies, I’d love to hear how they turned out in your kitchen! Scroll down and leave a star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and a quick review—your feedback helps other bakers and truly makes my day. Happy baking!

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