Filipino Chocolate Crinkles are more than just cookies – they’re a beloved treat that carries a special place in the hearts of many. Known for their rich, chocolatey flavor and distinctive cracked appearance, these cookies stand out on any dessert table. Their unique look is achieved by rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking, which creates the signature “crinkles” as the cookies expand and the sugar coating cracks.
At the heart of these cookies is a wonderfully soft and fudgy interior. Each bite reveals a moist, melt-in-your-mouth center that contrasts perfectly with the crisp exterior formed by the powdered sugar coating. This combination of textures – soft on the inside and slightly crunchy on the outside – is what sets Chocolate Crinkles apart and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Chocolate Crinkles are synonymous with celebration and home-made goodness, often enjoyed during festive occasions and gatherings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
All-Purpose Flour
Note: Provides structure and tenderness; use light, sifted flour for soft, delicate cookies.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Note: Delivers a deep, rich chocolate flavor; choose high-quality cocoa for best results.
Baking Powder
Note: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise slightly, contributing to a soft, cakey texture.
Salt
Note: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness and intensifying the chocolate notes; a small pinch is sufficient.
Wet Ingredients:
Granulated Sugar
Note: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a chewy texture; a fine sugar works best for even incorporation.
Vegetable Oil
Note: Keeps the cookies moist and tender; alternatives like canola or coconut oil can add subtle flavor variations.
Eggs
Note: Serve as a binding agent and contribute moisture; use at room temperature for smoother blending with other ingredients.
Vanilla Extract
Note: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is recommended for an authentic taste.
For Coating:
Powdered Sugar
Note: Essential for creating the signature crinkle effect; the powdered sugar forms a crisp, slightly sweet crust as it bakes.
Optional Additions:
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Note: Provide extra bursts of chocolate in every bite; ideal for those seeking additional richness.
Espresso Powder
Note: Enhances and intensifies the chocolate flavor with a subtle hint of bitterness; use sparingly for best balance.
How To Make Filipino Chocolate Crinkles
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Combine Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add Eggs & Vanilla – Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. If using espresso powder, mix it in at this stage.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until fully combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
Fold in Chocolate Chips – If using, gently mix in the chocolate chips.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring the cookies don’t spread too much while baking.
Step 3: Shape and Coat the Dough
Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the Cookies – Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your palms.
Coat with Powdered Sugar – Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated. This creates the classic crinkle effect when baked.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are set and the crinkle pattern has formed.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Crinkles
Chilling the Dough:
Chilling the dough before baking is essential. It allows the fats (like butter or oil) to solidify, which helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Without proper chilling, the dough may spread too much, resulting in thinner, less fudgy cookies instead of the classic, thick, and soft crinkles.
Even Coating of Powdered Sugar:
Rolling each dough ball in powdered sugar is key to achieving the iconic crinkle effect. The sugar forms a crisp outer shell that cracks as the cookie bakes, creating a beautiful, textured appearance. An even coating ensures consistency in both taste and visual appeal.
Adjusting Baking Time:
The baking time influences the texture of your cookies. For a chewier cookie, you might opt for a slightly shorter bake, whereas a longer bake can yield a crispier texture. Adjusting the time lets you tailor the cookies to your preference, ensuring they come out just right.
Variations of Chocolate Crinkles Recipe Filipino
Incorporating Ube (Purple Yam):
Adding ube introduces a unique, slightly nutty flavor and vibrant color to the cookies. Ube crinkles offer a creative twist on the traditional recipe, appealing especially to those who enjoy Filipino flavors.
Adding Peppermint Extract:
A few drops of peppermint extract can infuse the cookies with a refreshing, seasonal taste, making them perfect for festive occasions like the holidays. This variation adds an unexpected flavor contrast to the rich chocolate.
Using Different Types of Chocolate or Fillings:
Experimenting with various chocolates—such as dark, milk, or even white chocolate—or incorporating fillings (like caramel or peanut butter) allows you to create multiple flavor profiles. This versatility can cater to different tastes and make the cookies more exciting.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Beverages:
Chocolate crinkles pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or milk. The richness of the cookies complements these drinks, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Packaging Ideas for Gifting:
When beautifully packaged—think decorative tins or personalized boxes—these cookies make thoughtful gifts. The homemade touch adds extra charm and appeal for special occasions.
Incorporating into Dessert Platters:
Adding chocolate crinkles to a dessert platter alongside other treats (like macarons, brownies, or fruit) can elevate the presentation, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Substitutes for Certain Ingredients:
If you’re looking to modify the recipe, consider alternatives like using applesauce instead of oil or trying different sweeteners. These adjustments can cater to various dietary needs without compromising the flavor.
Making the Recipe Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free:
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free alternatives for butter and cheese. There are many available options that allow you to enjoy these cookies even with dietary restrictions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
Flat Cookies: Ensure the dough is adequately chilled before baking and that your oven temperature is accurate.
Overly Crispy or Dry Cookies: Adjust the baking time slightly shorter if you prefer a softer, chewy texture.
Uneven Crinkles: Make sure each cookie ball is evenly coated with powdered sugar for consistent crinkling.
More Recipes
Chocolate Crinkles Recipe Filipino
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil canola or coconut oil works too
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Coating:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra richness
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla – Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. If using espresso powder, mix it in at this stage.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until fully combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips – If using, gently mix in the chocolate chips.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring the cookies don’t spread too much while baking.
Step 3: Shape and Coat the Dough
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies – Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your palms.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar – Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated. This creates the classic crinkle effect when baked.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are set and the crinkle pattern has formed.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Chilling the dough before baking is essential. It allows the fats (like butter or oil) to solidify, which helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Without proper chilling, the dough may spread too much, resulting in thinner, less fudgy cookies instead of the classic, thick, and soft crinkles. Even Coating of Powdered Sugar:
Rolling each dough ball in powdered sugar is key to achieving the iconic crinkle effect. The sugar forms a crisp outer shell that cracks as the cookie bakes, creating a beautiful, textured appearance. An even coating ensures consistency in both taste and visual appeal. Adjusting Baking Time:
The baking time influences the texture of your cookies. For a chewier cookie, you might opt for a slightly shorter bake, whereas a longer bake can yield a crispier texture. Adjusting the time lets you tailor the cookies to your preference, ensuring they come out just right.