Grinch Cookies

Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive holiday treat inspired by the beloved Christmas character. These bright green, crinkled cookies are soft, chewy, and often topped with a tiny red heart to symbolize the Grinch’s growing heart. Whether you’re baking them for a Christmas party, cookie exchange, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients, including a cake mix for convenience.
  • Soft and Chewy – Perfectly tender cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Festive and Fun – Bright green cookies with a red heart make a great holiday treat.
  • Kid-Friendly – A great recipe for baking with children.

Ingredients

Grinch Cookies 10 Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive holiday treat inspired by the beloved Christmas character. These bright green, crinkled cookies are soft, chewy, and often topped with a tiny red heart to symbolize the Grinch's growing heart. Whether you're baking them for a Christmas party, cookie exchange, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 box white cake mix (approximately 15.25 ounces)
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
  • Green gel food coloring
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Red heart-shaped sprinkles or candies

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough – In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until combined. If using, add peppermint extract.
  2. Add Color – Stir in green gel food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
  3. Chill – Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  4. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Form Cookies – Scoop dough into small balls and roll in powdered sugar to coat.
  6. Bake – Arrange on the baking sheet, leaving space between cookies. Bake for 10-12 minutes until they crackle on top.
  7. Decorate – While warm, gently press a red heart sprinkle into each cookie.
  8. Cool – Let the cookies sit for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: About 24 cookies
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

  • Different Flavors – Swap peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract.
  • Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free cake mix.
  • Extra Add-Ins – Mix in white chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • Freezing – Freeze cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Make Ahead – Dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

FAQs

Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies 11 Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive holiday treat inspired by the beloved Christmas character. These bright green, crinkled cookies are soft, chewy, and often topped with a tiny red heart to symbolize the Grinch's growing heart. Whether you're baking them for a Christmas party, cookie exchange, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer.

What type of food coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring works best for vibrant color without altering the dough.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

Why did my powdered sugar disappear?

Try rolling the dough in a mix of powdered sugar and cornstarch to help it stick.

What can I use instead of heart sprinkles?

Red M&M’s, cinnamon candies, or a small icing heart work well.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes! White chocolate chips or festive sprinkles add extra fun.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling helps prevent spreading and makes handling easier.

Can I use liquid food coloring?

Yes, but you may need more to achieve the same bright green color.

How can I make the cookies chewier?

Adding an extra egg yolk can create a chewier texture.

Are these cookies good for cookie exchanges?

Absolutely! They’re festive, easy to transport, and always a hit.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Grinch Cookies are a festive and delicious holiday treat that everyone will love. Whether you make them for a party, a cookie exchange, or just for fun, these bright green cookies with a sweet touch of love will bring smiles to all. Happy baking!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grinch Cookies

Grinch Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2024 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These festive cookies are soft, chewy, and bright green—just like the Grinch himself! With a hint of vanilla and a cute red candy heart on top, they’re a perfect Christmas treat.


Ingredients

Units Scale

1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

45 drops green food coloring

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

1/2 cup cornstarch (for rolling)

2024 red heart sprinkles or red M&M’s


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, vanilla extract, eggs, and green food coloring. Stir until a dough forms.
  • Prepare for rolling: In a separate small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and cornstarch.
  • Shape the cookies: Scoop 1-inch balls of dough, roll them in the sugar mixture, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are soft.
  • Add the heart: While the cookies are still warm, gently press a red heart sprinkle or M&M into the center of each.
  • Cool & enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before rolling.

You can use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor twist.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

 

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *