Grinch Cookies are a fun, festive treat that add a splash of color and cheer to any holiday gathering. Inspired by the famous Dr. Seuss character, these cookies are bright green and loaded with tasty M&Ms. They are perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or just a fun baking activity with the family.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Grinch Cookies because they are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their vibrant green color and festive red and green M&Ms make them a hit during the holiday season. Plus, they are easy to make, even for beginners. Baking these cookies can become a cherished holiday tradition, bringing joy to both those who bake them and those who eat them.
How to Make Grinch Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 drops bright green food coloring (more if you want it greener)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms (plus an additional 1/2 cup for topping cookies, if desired)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until they are well combined, light, and fluffy (about 1 minute).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and food coloring until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Set the mixer to low speed and gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until well incorporated.
- Fold in the M&M candies, but keep a few out to press on top of the cookies before baking.
- Drop cookie dough by heaping 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized scoops onto the prepared cookie sheets. For perfectly round cookies, you can roll the dough in your hands into a smooth ball.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes. If you want, gently press additional M&Ms into the tops of the cookies while they are still warm for decoration.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the cookie sheet before removing them.
How to Serve Grinch Cookies
Serve Grinch Cookies on a festive platter or in a decorative jar to make them stand out. You can also pair them with milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for a delightful treat during the holiday season. They make great gifts for friends, family, or neighbors!
How to Store Grinch Cookies
Store Grinch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Grinch Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- If you want a more intense green color, feel free to add more drops of food coloring.
- Experiment with different types of candies or chocolate chips for a fun twist!
Variation
For a different flavor, you can add a teaspoon of mint extract to the dough. This will give your Grinch Cookies a delightful minty taste that’s perfect for the holidays.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A1: Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different texture.
Q2: Can I use different types of candy?
A2: Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate candies or even sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top.
Q3: How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
A3: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Grinch Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is softened, not melted.
- 1 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 drops bright green food coloring Add more if you want a greener color.
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Mix-ins
- 1 1/2 cups red and green M&Ms Plus an additional 1/2 cup for topping cookies, if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until light and fluffy (about 1 minute).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and food coloring until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Set the mixer to low speed and gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until well incorporated.
- Fold in the M&M candies, keeping a few out to press on top of the cookies before baking.
Baking
- Drop cookie dough by heaping 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized scoops onto the prepared cookie sheets.
- For perfectly round cookies, roll the dough in your hands into a smooth ball.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes. Gently press additional M&Ms into the tops of the cookies while they are still warm for decoration.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the cookie sheet before removing them.
