Grinch Cookies – Festive, Minty, and Fun for the Holidays

Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive treat perfect for the holiday season. Inspired by the beloved Dr. Seuss character, these cookies are vibrant green, sweet, and infused with refreshing peppermint flavor. They are soft, chewy, and topped with a cute red heart-shaped sprinkle or cinnamon to capture the whimsical charm of the Grinch’s heart. These cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply spreading cheer at home.

The base of Grinch Cookies starts with a white cake mix, which ensures a tender and fluffy texture. Butter, eggs, and vanilla add richness and structure, while peppermint extract gives the cookies their signature holiday flavor. Green gel food coloring transforms the dough into a playful bright green, perfect for Grinch-themed treats. Coating the cookies in powdered sugar and cornstarch before baking gives them a light, slightly crisp exterior while maintaining a soft interior. The finishing touch—a red heart-shaped sprinkle—symbolizes the Grinch’s heart growing three sizes and adds a whimsical festive element.

This recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and requires minimal ingredients, yet produces eye-catching, delicious cookies. Below, you’ll find the full ingredient list and a detailed, step-by-step method to make Grinch Cookies that will delight kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 15.25 ounces white cake mix (432 g box)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract (or mint extract)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green gel food coloring
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (32 g)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon, for garnish

Preparation Method

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, softened butter, eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 3

Add green gel food coloring a little at a time until the dough reaches your desired bright green color. Mix thoroughly to ensure the color is evenly distributed.

Step 4

In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Roll small portions of dough into balls (about 1 tablespoon each), then coat each ball in the powdered sugar-cornstarch mixture.

Step 5

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.

Step 6

Gently press a red heart-shaped sprinkle or a pinch of cinnamon onto the center of each cookie to resemble the Grinch’s heart.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain the chewy texture.

Step 8

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

Optional: Dust lightly with additional powdered sugar for a festive snowy effect.

Step 10

Serve and enjoy these whimsical, minty Grinch Cookies with family and friends. They make a fun addition to holiday cookie trays or festive gift packages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Roll into balls and coat with powdered sugar just before baking.

2. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, cookie dough balls can be frozen before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I substitute cake mix with another type?
You can use yellow or vanilla cake mix if preferred. White cake mix produces the softest texture and brightest green color.

4. Can I use natural mint extract instead of peppermint?
Yes, but adjust the quantity to taste as natural mint extract can be stronger.

5. Can I make these cookies without green food coloring?
Yes, but they won’t have the iconic Grinch appearance. You can try natural green colorings like spinach or matcha, but the color may be less vibrant.

6. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
Yes, adjust the dough portion size. Smaller cookies bake faster, while larger cookies may need 1–2 extra minutes in the oven.

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Conclusion

Grinch Cookies are a delightful and playful holiday treat that combine soft, chewy texture with refreshing peppermint flavor and a pop of festive color. Easy to make yet visually impressive, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking with kids, cookie exchanges, or simply celebrating the season. The red heart sprinkle adds a charming nod to the Grinch story, making them both delicious and whimsical.