Whip up winter magic with our Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies! A fudgy wonderland of rich cocoa rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for festive gatherings or your solo Netflix-and-cookie night! A plant based version of the classic holiday cookie.
Winter has officially wrapped its chilly arms around us, and you know what that means – it’s prime time to cozy up by your pre-heated oven and whip up some cookie magic. One of my go-to recipes this time of year is Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies.
If you’re anything like me, you believe that every season is cookie season. However, there’s something about the crisp chill in the winter air that makes a plate of warm, gooey treats even more irresistible.
These dairy-free and eggless cookies have chewy centers, irresistibly crispy edges, and a perfectly crinkled exterior that’s almost too pretty to eat (almost). And did I mention they taste like brownies? Yes, you heard that right – imagine the fudgy, decadent goodness of brownies but in crinkled cookie form.
Whether you’re attending a cookie exchange, a solo cozy night in, or just looking for an excuse to lick chocolate and powdered sugar off your fingers (no judgment here!), these crinkle cookies are the answer.
Looking for another winter-inspired cookie recipe? Check out these incredible Vegan Peppermint Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Ingredients and Substitutions
- Special Equipment to Make Vegan Crinkle Cookies
- Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- How to Make Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies – Step by Step
- Tips and Variations
- Common Questions about Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Want to save these crinkle cookies for later? Here’s how!
- Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Storage Guide:
Why You’ll Love Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Foolproof and Beginner-Friendly: Don’t let the impressive crinkle appearance fool you – these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, the straightforward ingredients and simple steps make these treats a perfect addition to your repertoire.
Decadent Brownie Bliss in Every Bite: Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that effortlessly captures the essence of a gooey brownie. These vegan chocolate crinkle cookies bring the best of both worlds – a rich, fudgy interior with a crackly, powdered sugar exterior. They’re a cocoa lover’s dream come true.
Plant-Based Goodness for Everyone: Whether you’re embracing a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to add more cruelty-free delights to your repertoire, these cookies are proof that going vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Share them with friends and family, and watch them swoon over the plant-based magic.
Instant Holiday Cheer: Nothing says festive like a batch of crinkle cookies. The powdered sugar coating resembles a dusting of snow, making these treats a visual delight that screams winter wonderland. These cookies are an instant hit at gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even as edible gifts.
Insta-Worthy Crinkle Aesthetic: Let’s be real – we eat with our eyes first. These cookies aren’t just a taste sensation; they’re a visual delight too. The iconic crinkle pattern makes them a stunning addition to your holiday dessert table or the star of your Instagram feed. Get ready for the flood of comments asking for the recipe – they’re that impressive!
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cocoa Powder: Choose a high-quality cocoa powder for an intense chocolatey flavor. It’s the star of the show, so go for the good stuff! If you find yourself out of cocoa powder, you can swap in cacao powder with a similar measurement. The rich, unprocessed cacao will bring its unique depth to the party.
- All-Purpose Flour: Measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for accuracy. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, and we want these crinkles to be perfectly chewy. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cookie’s structure.
- Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that classic crinkled appearance. Swap with coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. Keep in mind that it may alter the cookie’s color and texture.
A note about sugar:
Unfortunately, most sugars in the United States are processed using animal-derived bone char. If you want to guarantee the sugar you are baking with is vegan-friendly, make sure it is raw cane sugar, certified-organic cane sugar, or sugar made exclusively from beets.
- Dark Brown Sugar: Brown sugar not only sweetens but also contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor. It’s the secret to the soft and chewy interior. Light brown sugar is a suitable substitute if dark brown sugar isn’t available. You’ll get a milder molasses flavor.
- Vegan Butter: Using room temperature butter ensures even mixing and a uniform cookie texture. Coconut oil, also at room temperature, can replace vegan butter. Keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.
- Aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, acts as a fantastic egg replacer, adding moisture and helping bind the ingredients together. If you’re out of aquafaba, applesauce or mashed banana can be used as alternatives, though they may add a subtle fruity note.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder: The dynamic duo for leavening, ensuring that your cookies rise just the right amount. Too much or too little can affect the texture, so measure carefully. If you’re out of baking powder, increase the baking soda slightly, and vice versa. Just be mindful of the potential flavor impact.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds depth and rounds out the chocolatey goodness. Consider using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Vanilla bean paste or vanilla powder can be used as a 1:1 substitute for extract, providing a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference. If you only have table salt, use a slightly smaller amount as it’s saltier than coarse sea salt.
- Powdered Sugar: Rolling the cookie dough in powdered sugar creates that iconic crinkle effect during baking. It’s like giving your cookies a sweet snowfall coating! No powdered sugar? Granulated sugar works too, though the crinkles might be less pronounced. Roll them generously for that extra sugary touch.
Special Equipment to Make Vegan Crinkle Cookies
- Baking Sheets Lined with Parchment Paper: Parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. No one wants to scrub crinkled sugar off their baking sheets!
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Whether you have a stand mixer with a trusty paddle attachment or a reliable hand mixer, these will be your partners in achieving that velvety consistency for the vegan butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar.
- Plastic Wrap: Wrap up your dough in plastic wrap before sending it off to chill in the refrigerator. This step is essential for firming up the dough and enhancing the flavors.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: A cookie scoop or a simple spoon makes uniform cookies, ensuring they bake evenly and look picture-perfect.
- Powdered Sugar Shaker or Bowl: Have a powdered sugar shaker or a wide bowl ready for rolling your dough balls, giving them that iconic snowy coating.
- Wire Rack: Transferring your cookies to a wire rack after baking allows them to cool evenly, maintaining that delightful chewiness inside.
Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Good news, gluten-free friends! You can absolutely indulge in the chocolatey goodness of these crinkle cookies. With a few simple swaps, we’ll ensure that everyone gets to savor the magic. Here’s how to make your own batch of Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies:
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Replace the 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or add ½ teaspoon separately to help with the cookies’ structure. I like using this measure for measure gluten free flour from King Arthur.
- Checking Other Ingredients: Confirm that your baking soda and baking powder are gluten-free. Most are, but it’s always wise to double-check labels.
- Aquafaba Alternative: If you prefer an alternative to aquafaba, you can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. These options are naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan Butter Consideration: Ensure that your chosen vegan butter for this recipe is labeled gluten-free. Many plant-based butters fit the bill, but it’s wise to check for any potential gluten cross-contamination.
- Powdered Sugar Confirmation: When rolling your cookies in powdered sugar, make sure it’s certified gluten-free to avoid any potential wheat-based additives.
- Baking Time Awareness: Gluten-free cookies may need a slightly different baking time. Start checking for doneness around 8-10 minutes, as they can cook a bit faster than their gluten-filled counterparts.
How to Make Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies – Step by Step
- Preheat and Prepare
Kick off your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick baking experience and easy cleanup later.
- Sift and Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, grab your sifter and sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. This step ensures a smooth, lump-free dry ingredient mix that will be the backbone of your crinkle cookies.
- Creamy Vegan Butter Bliss
Time to introduce your stand mixer or hand mixer to the party. In a separate bowl, blend the vegan butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until the mixture reaches a smooth and well-combined consistency. Picture this as the dance of ingredients coming together in sweet harmony.
- Aquafaba and Vanilla Elegance
Add the aquafaba (the magical chickpea liquid) and vanilla extract to your creamy butter and sugar mixture. Continue blending until everything is beautifully incorporated. This step adds moisture and that delightful vanilla undertone to your cookie dough.
- Gradual Marriage of Wet and Dry
Gradually introduce the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms. It’s like watching a love story unfold – the rich cocoa, sugars, and vegan butter joining forces for cookie perfection.
- Chillin’ in the Fridge
Wrap your cookie dough bowl in plastic wrap, tucking it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This downtime allows the dough to firm up, enhancing the flavors and making it easier to handle later. It’s the sweet anticipation phase!
- Scoop, Roll, and Sugar-Coat
Once chilled and ready for action, use a cookie scoop or your trusty hands to portion out balls of dough. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring they’re evenly coated for that iconic crinkle effect. The more sugar, the merrier!
- Bake to Perfection
Place your sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. Pop them into the preheated oven and let the magic happen for 10-12 minutes. The cookies will spread and the sugar coating will crackle.
- Cool and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your crinkle cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. This brief intermission allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Chill Out: Don’t rush the chilling step. Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture. It’s like giving your cookies a spa day before the big reveal.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven is unique, and a minute or two can make a difference. The goal is for the edges to set while the centers remain delightfully soft.
- Generous Powdered Sugar Coating: When rolling your dough balls in powdered sugar, be generous! A thick coating will result in more pronounced crinkles and an extra touch of sweetness.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a festive touch by incorporating a teaspoon of peppermint extract into the dough. Roll the cookies in crushed candy canes before baking for a delightful holiday twist.
- Hot Cocoa Companionship: Pair these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate winter treat. The combination of warm, gooey cookies and rich cocoa is pure bliss.
Common Questions about Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Several factors can affect the spread and crinkling of your cookies. Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as their leavening power can diminish over time. Additionally, be generous when rolling the dough in powdered sugar, as a thick coating helps create those beautiful crinkles. Finally, ensure your oven is fully preheated, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow proper airflow.
Absolutely! These cookies are fantastic for prepping ahead. After rolling the dough into balls and coating them in powdered sugar, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a freezer bag. When the craving strikes, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
The crinkles are the pièce de résistance, and the secret lies in the powdered sugar coating. Ensure you roll the dough balls generously in powdered sugar, creating a thick and even coat. This coating not only adds sweetness but also plays a crucial role in forming those beautiful cracks as the cookies bake.
Want to save these crinkle cookies for later? Here’s how!
For short-term storage (up to 3 days), you can keep your Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container or sealable bag to maintain their freshness. If you live in a humid environment, consider adding a slice of bread to the container to prevent the cookies from becoming overly soft.
If you need to store your crinkle cookies for an extended period (up to a week), the refrigerator is your ally. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Before indulging, allow the cookies to come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
To keep the crinkle cookie love alive for weeks or even months, freezing is your superhero move. Follow these steps:
- Flash Freeze: Place individual cookies on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Transfer to a Freezer Bag: Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air before sealing.
- Label and Date: Don’t forget to label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. For an extra treat, warm them up in the oven for a few minutes to recapture that freshly baked magic.
Thank you so much for reading, friend! If you make this recipe in your very own kitchen, please come back and leave a star rating and review. I would absolutely LOVE to hear what you thought!
Happy Baking!
xoxo, Audra
Easy Vegan Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup vegan butter room temperature
- ¼ cup aquafaba chickpea liquid/brine
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt.
- Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or a hand mixer, blend the vegan butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar together until the mixture achieves a smooth and well-combined consistency.
- Add the aquafaba and vanilla extract and continue mixing.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the dough is firm enough to handle.
- Once chilled, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each ball in the powdered sugar, ensuring an even, thick coat.
- Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should spread slightly, and the sugar coating will crackle.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Chill for Chewiness: Let the dough chill for 2 hours.
- Watch the Oven: Ensure edges set while centers stay soft.
- Crinkle Magic: Roll generously for pronounced crinkles.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive upgrade.
- Cocoa Bliss: Pair with hot cocoa for the ultimate winter treat.
- Short-Term: Seal in an airtight container at room temp for 3 days. Add bread in humid climates.
- Fridge Delight: Extend joy up to a week in a container, parchment layers, and a brief room temp return.
- Freezer Magic: Freeze on a tray, bag, label with date, thaw, and warm for anytime cookie happiness!
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