As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of vanilla and almond wafted around me, instantly igniting that festive spirit we all crave during the holidays. I was on a mission to create the ultimate treat for my family gatherings—the Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies. With their soft centers and delicate crispy edges, these cookies aren’t just beautifully festive; they are a crowd favorite that combines easy baking with the magic of the season. Topped with vibrant green buttercream and playful sprinkles, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Don’t you just love the way a sweet treat can warm the heart? Ready to bring some joy to your holiday festivities? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why Are Grinch Cookies a Must-Make? Festive Fun: These Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies add a playful twist to your holiday baking with their vibrant colors and whimsical decorations. Delightfully Simple: Even if you’re new to baking, the easy-to-follow instructions make this recipe accessible for everyone. Crowd Pleaser: Their soft, chewy centers and decorative flair will surely steal the show at any gathering, from cookie swaps to cozy family nights. Versatile Variations: Feeling creative? You can easily switch up flavors and colors to suit your festive themes. Don’t miss exploring other holiday creations like our Chocolate Chip Crumble or Dark Chocolate Cookies! Sweet Aroma: The warm scents of vanilla and almond wafting from your kitchen will have everyone looking forward to some delightful bites. Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies For the Cookie Base All-Purpose Flour – Builds structure for thick, bakery-style cookies. Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and contributes to a tender crumb. Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cookie crumb moist and soft after baking. Substitution: Canola oil can also be used. Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps cookies set with light, crisp edges. Eggs – Binds the dough and contributes to a tender texture. Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, sweet aroma and flavor. Almond Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle nutty note. Substitution: Extra vanilla can be used if desired. Cornstarch – Softens the texture and helps cookies maintain thickness. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give cookies a puffy finish. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors. For the Frosting Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and contributes to a fluffy texture. Unsalted Butter – Ensures a creamy base for the buttercream frosting. Heavy Cream – Loosens the frosting to a pipeable consistency. Neon Green Food Coloring – For creating the vibrant Grinch shade in the buttercream. For Decoration Red Heart Sprinkles – Signature decoration for the center of each cookie. Christmas Sprinkles – Adds colorful crunch and festive flair. These Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies are not just a treat; they are a joyful experience that brings warmth and cheer to your holiday celebrations! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather two to three baking sheets. Line each sheet with parchment paper for effortless cookie release. This step sets the stage for your Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies, ensuring they bake evenly and beautifully. Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough In a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes. Next, add in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until all ingredients are fully blended and form a cohesive dough. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer, mixing on low speed until the dough appears crumbly yet holds together. This combination is crucial for achieving the perfect soft yet sturdy texture of your Grinch cookies. Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough Scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them approximately 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each scoop to ensure even baking, then refrigerate the trays for at least 15 minutes. Chilling the dough helps maintain the cookies’ shape, preventing them from spreading too much while baking. Step 5: Bake the Cookies After chilling, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want those delightful soft centers typical of Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies. Step 6: Cool the Cookies Once baked to perfection, remove the trays from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps the cookies set up properly while maintaining their chewy texture. Step 7: Make the Frosting In your stand mixer, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until creamy and smooth, then gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream until the frosting reaches a pipeable consistency. Add neon green food coloring until you achieve a bright Grinch hue for a festive touch. Step 8: Frost the Cookies Once the Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to decorate! Use a piping bag to apply the vibrant green buttercream frosting onto the tops of each cookie. Finish by adorning them with red heart sprinkles and additional Christmas sprinkles for that extra festive flair. Enjoy the artwork you’ve created! How to Store and Freeze Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, place the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for 5–7 days, maintaining their soft texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a Ziploc bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, simply microwave for 5–10 seconds. This revives the delicious softness of your Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies! Make Ahead Options These Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps and then refrigerating the scooped dough on the baking sheets. Just remember to cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake the chilled cookie dough for 15-20 minutes until the edges are golden. The frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a quick stir before piping onto your cookies. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delightful cookies that are just as delicious, with minimal effort when it counts! What to Serve with Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Imagine enjoying these festive cookies as part of a delightful holiday spread that your friends and family will cherish. Frosted Hot Cocoa: An indulgent cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream is the perfect pairing to complement the sweet almond and vanilla flavors in the cookies. Chewy Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies add a delightful contrast to the sweet Grinch cookies, offering a warm hug of holiday flavor that everyone loves. Christmas Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus and berries balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a burst of color to your holiday table. Nutty Biscotti: With their crunchy texture and hints of almond, these cookies provide a wonderful contrast to the soft Grinch cookies while enhancing the overall flavor experience. Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty flavor of this chocolatey treat complements the almond notes of the sugar cookies, making it a festive delight for shared moments. Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine echo the holiday spirit, creating a cozy drink that perfectly accompanies the sweetness of your delicious cookies. Treat your loved ones to an unforgettable celebration by thoughtfully pairing these delightful Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies with a lovingly crafted spread! Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Variations Customize your Grinch cookies for a unique touch that tantalizes the taste buds and celebrates your creativity! Lemon Twist: Swap almond extract for lemon extract for a zesty, refreshing flavor. This bright change brings a delightful citrusy note to your holiday treats. Oil Swap: Use canola or light olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option. Both alternatives keep your cookies moist while slightly altering the flavor profile. Color Variations: Change neon green food coloring to soft mint or bright red for a chic twist. This simple swap creates a whole new vibe for your festive cookie platter. Different Sprinkles: Replace heart sprinkles with star sprinkles or crushed candy canes for added festive flair. Each variation brings its excitement and texture to every bite! Nut-Free Delight: Omit almond extract and double the vanilla for a nut-free version. Your loved ones will still enjoy the rich sweetness and festive touch without any allergies to worry about. Frosting Flavor Boost: Add a hint of peppermint extract to the frosting for a minty freshness. It’s a perfect pairing with the sugar cookie base and amplifies the holiday spirit. Chocoholic Option: Stir in mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for some chocolaty goodness. A surprising twist that chocolate lovers will adore, giving an exciting texture with every bite. Spiced Version: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a comforting spiced flavor. It adds warmth and coziness that echoes the magic of the season. Feel free to explore these variations to make your Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies even more delightful. If you enjoyed baking these, don’t forget to check out our Dark Chocolate Cookies and Chocolate Chip Crumble for more delicious holiday inspiration! Expert Tips for Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Chill the Dough: Ensure to chill the dough before baking, as it helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents spreading, ensuring your Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies look perfect. Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or exact measuring cups to avoid misreading the quantities, which can impact texture and taste. Baking is a science, after all! Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; pulling them out when the edges are barely golden will keep the centers soft and chewy. Frosting Smoothness: To achieve a smoother frosting, allow the butter to soften fully before mixing. This helps to create a creamy buttercream that pipes beautifully. Experiment with Colors: Feel free to experiment with different food coloring shades to create your own unique Grinch-style cookies, adding a personal touch to the festive treat. Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. Opt for high-quality vanilla and almond extracts to enhance flavor—look for pure extracts rather than imitation for a more robust aroma. When selecting eggs, choose large, fresh eggs for the best binding and structure. How can I store these cookies after baking? Very good question! Store your Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies in a single layer within an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them chilled, they can last in the fridge for about 5-7 days, and they will maintain their soft texture. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking! Can I freeze the cookies, and how should I do it? Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet; freeze until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a Ziploc bag for long-term storage up to 2 months. When ready to indulge, place them in the fridge overnight to thaw, or enjoy them slightly warm by microwaving for just 5–10 seconds. What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? If your dough feels too sticky, don’t fret! Start by chilling it for about 15–30 minutes in the refrigerator. This cooling will firm it up considerably. If it’s still sticky after chilling, gradually add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the consistency feels right. Remember, though—don’t overwork it to keep those soft, chewy centers! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Great question! These cookies contain common allergens like gluten and dairy. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a blend designed for gluten-free baking and use a dairy-free butter substitute. You can also replace the eggs with ground flaxseed (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan option—just ensure you allow the mixture to sit until it thickens before adding it to the dough. Can I make the frosting ahead of time? Of course! You can prepare the neon green buttercream frosting a day before using it. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to frost your Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies, allow the frosting to come to room temperature and mix it slightly to restore its creamy consistency before piping. Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies That Steal the Festive Show Delight in the festive flavor of Grinch Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies, a cheerful treat perfect for celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 25 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Base3 cups All-Purpose Flour Builds structure for thick, bakery-style cookies.1 cup Unsalted Butter Adds rich flavor and contributes to a tender crumb.1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the cookie crumb moist and soft after baking. Substitution: Canola oil can also be used.1 cup Granulated Sugar Provides sweetness and helps cookies set with light, crisp edges.2 large Eggs Binds the dough and contributes to a tender texture.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds a warm, sweet aroma and flavor.1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle nutty note. Substitution: Extra vanilla can be used if desired.1 tablespoon Cornstarch Softens the texture and helps cookies maintain thickness.2 teaspoons Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent to give cookies a puffy finish.1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.For the Frosting4 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting and contributes to a fluffy texture.1 cup Unsalted Butter Ensures a creamy base for the buttercream frosting.2-4 tablespoons Heavy Cream Loosens the frosting to a pipeable consistency.1 drop Neon Green Food Coloring For creating the vibrant Grinch shade in the buttercream.For Decoration1/4 cup Red Heart Sprinkles Signature decoration for the center of each cookie.1/4 cup Christmas Sprinkles Adds colorful crunch and festive flair. Equipment Stand MixerBaking sheetsParchment Paperpiping bag Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather two to three baking sheets. Line each sheet with parchment paper for effortless cookie release.In a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.Next, add in 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until all ingredients are fully blended and form a cohesive dough.In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer, mixing on low speed until the dough appears crumbly yet holds together.Scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them approximately 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each scoop to ensure even baking, then refrigerate the trays for at least 15 minutes.After chilling, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden brown while the centers remain soft.Once baked to perfection, remove the trays from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.In your stand mixer, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until creamy and smooth.Gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream until the frosting reaches a pipeable consistency. Add neon green food coloring until you achieve a bright Grinch hue.Once the Grinch Crumbl Christmas sugar cookies are completely cooled, use a piping bag to apply the vibrant green buttercream frosting onto the tops of each cookie.Finish by adorning them with red heart sprinkles and additional Christmas sprinkles for that extra festive flair. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure to chill the dough before baking to retain the cookies' shape and prevent spreading. Measure accurately for best results and experiment with colors for a personal touch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
