Introduction to Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Oh, the magic of the holiday season! As a home cook who adores sharing festive treats, I find that these Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a delightful solution for busy days. Picture this: soft, sweet, and oh-so-easy to make. You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for surprise gatherings or to impress your loved ones. Plus, their vibrant colors will brighten any dessert table. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, these cookies truly capture the spirit of the holidays without adding stress to your already busy schedule!
Why You’ll Love This Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
These Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies are a time-saving gem for any busy mom or professional. With just a few ingredients and a quick prep, you can have a batch ready in under an hour. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them irresistible, and the festive sparkle? That’s just the cherry on top! They not only taste amazing but also add cheer to your holiday celebrations—what more could you ask for?
Ingredients for Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference in the kitchen! For these Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies, you’ll need a few common items that pack a festive punch. Here’s what you’ll be using:
- Vanilla or white cake mix: This is the base of your cookies. Choose your favorite brand for reliable flavor.
- Cool Whip: Thaw it completely for a creamy texture that blends easily with the other ingredients.
- Large egg: This will help bind everything together, giving your cookies that classic chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds depth to the flavor, elevating your cookies from good to great!
- Powdered sugar: Essential for rolling the dough balls, this sugary coat gives that signature crinkle effect.
- Red and green sanding sugar: Use these sprinkles for a festive flair! They add a charming sparkle to your cookies.
Feel free to experiment! You could try different cake mixes, like chocolate or lemon, for a unique twist. Instead of sanding sugar, why not use crushed candy canes? For those with dietary needs, gluten-free cake mixes can also work beautifully.
The exact measurements are listed at the bottom of the article, available for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Now the fun really begins! Making these Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies is a breeze, and trust me, your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas. I’m so excited to guide you through each step. Here we go!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, Cool Whip, egg, and vanilla extract. I like using a sturdy spatula for this. Mix until everything comes together into a thick, sticky dough. The dough should feel soft but not too wet. It’s like a sweet cloud waiting to transform into cookies!
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Chilling is key! Once your dough is mixed, cover it with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 20 to 30 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps those crinkles form beautifully when baking. Plus, it gives you a little break to tidy up your kitchen!
Step 3: Roll the Dough
Ready to roll? Once the dough is chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions using a cookie scoop or spoon. Roll each portion into a ball and then coat it generously in powdered sugar. This sugar coating is what gives the cookies that delightful crinkle appearance. Don’t be shy with the sugar; it’s all part of the fun!
Step 4: Add Festive Touch
Here comes the festive sparkle! Lightly dip the tops of your sugar-coated dough balls into the red or green sanding sugar. This gives each cookie a pop of holiday color and a delightful crunch. You can mix and match colors for a truly cheerful cookie platter!
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place each dough ball about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Trust me—crowded cookies are sad cookies! A little space goes a long way in achieving perfectly puffed treats.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
It’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed, cracked on top, and still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, though! Overbaking will turn these fluffy bites into crunchers, and we want them to melt in your mouth!
Step 7: Cooling the Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. They will be delicate while warm, so this is an important step. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the gorgeous look of your colorful Christmas crinkle cookies as they cool down!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your Cool Whip is fully thawed for the best texture in the dough.
- Keep your hands slightly dusted with powdered sugar while rolling to prevent stickiness.
- Experiment with different flavored cake mixes, like red velvet or lemon.
- Don’t rush the chilling process; it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy glass or ceramic bowl works wonders, but any large bowl will do.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for mixing, but a wooden spoon can also get the job done.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: A scoop ensures even-sized cookies, but a tablespoon works just as well.
- Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or a jelly roll pan lined with parchment paper.
Variations
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a decadent twist.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing holiday flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the regular cake mix with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Holiday Spice: Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive aroma.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in some mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive spiced tea for a cozy treat.
- Present them on a colorful holiday platter for a cheerful display that will catch everyone’s eye.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or holly for a touch of nature and extra charm.
FAQs about Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Can I use a different type of cake mix for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment with any flavor of cake mix, like chocolate or lemon, to create delightful variations. Just make sure you’re using the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How should I store the cookies after baking?
These cookies keep their charm when stored in an airtight container. This will help maintain their softness and flavor. If you don’t eat them all at once, which is quite likely, storing them correctly is key!
Can I freeze Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies?
Yes! Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between them. They freeze beautifully and will be a sweet treat to have on hand throughout the holidays!
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Serving these cookies alongside a warm beverage— like hot cocoa or spiced cider— elevates the experience. You can also present them on a colorful holiday platter for that extra festive touch!
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough too sticky to handle, simply pop it back into the fridge for a bit longer. Chilling works wonders in making the dough manageable. Just be patient, and you’ll have perfect cookies in no time!
Final Thoughts
Making Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies is more than just baking—it’s about creating sweet memories that bring joy to your holiday season. The soft, pillowy bites practically melt in your mouth, making every moment spent with family that much sweeter. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment to yourself, these cookies add a cheerful sparkle to any gathering. So, gather your ingredients, turn up the holiday tunes, and let the magic unfold. Trust me, these cookies will become a staple in your festive repertoire. Happy baking!
Print
Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies are festive, soft, and sweet treats that are easy to make and perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
- Red sanding sugar
- Green sanding sugar
Instructions
- Combine the cake mix, Cool Whip, egg, and vanilla in a bowl until a thick and sticky dough forms. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator to firm it up for easier handling. (⏱️ 20–30 minutes)
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll each one generously in powdered sugar. (⏱️ 3 minutes)
- Dip the tops lightly into red or green sanding sugar for a festive sparkle. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
- Place each dough ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. (⏱️ 1 minute)
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until puffed, cracked, and soft in the center. (⏱️ 10–12 minutes)
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet as they’re delicate while warm. (⏱️ 5 minutes)
Notes
- Ensure the Cool Whip is fully thawed for the best texture.
- Experiment with other colors of sanding sugar for different festive looks.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg