Festive Grinch Cookies: Soft & Chewy Holiday Treats

Name: Grinch Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3.4 oz pistachio pudding mix; 1/2 tsp green food coloring (optional); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Festive sprinkles

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

August 13, 2025

Updated:

August 13, 2025

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The holidays are upon us, and you know what that means—time for cookies that would make even the Grinch crack a smile. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with festive flavors. These Grinch Cookies bring joy in every bite, with their bright green hue and delightful chocolate surprises. They’re like little bundles of holiday cheer waiting to be devoured.

As I reminisce about my childhood, I remember baking cookies with my grandmother during Christmas. The kitchen would fill with warmth from the oven and laughter as we decorated each cookie. This recipe takes me back to those magical moments while adding a twist of fun that will make your holiday gatherings extra special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Grinch Cookies are easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
Their vibrant green color and festive sprinkles will wow your guests at any gathering.
Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness and texture, thanks to the chocolate chips.
Plus, they are versatile enough to enjoy year-round or customize for any occasion!

Ingredients for Grinch Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and provides that light, airy texture we all love.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easier mixing and richer flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar adds depth and moisture to these cookies.
Eggs: Helps bind everything together; room temperature eggs work best.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have for that warm, inviting aroma and flavor boost.
Pistachio Pudding Mix: This is where the magic happens—adds incredible flavor and color!
Green Food Coloring: Optional but highly recommended for that iconic Grinch green vibe.
Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a delectable contrast to the sweet dough.
Sprinkles: A festive touch—because who can resist sprinkles during the holidays?

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Grinch Cookies

How to Make Grinch Cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper so you won’t have any cookie casualties sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures an even distribution of leavening agents throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Think clouds—lightness is key here!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. If you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?), add a few drops of green food coloring at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in your dry mixture until just combined. You don’t want tough cookies—no one likes an overworked dough!

Step 6: Fold in Pistachio Pudding Mix

Gently fold in pistachio pudding mix along with chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop & Bake

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top if you’re feeling festive! Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.

Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful Grinch Cookies warm or allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container (if they last that long). With their unique flavor profile and whimsical appearance, these cookies are sure to become a holiday staple in your home!

You Must Know

Grinch Cookies are more than just a festive treat; they’re a delightful way to spread some holiday cheer.
With vibrant colors and a fun flavor twist, these cookies will light up your dessert table and bring smiles all around.
Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, then bake until just set. This sequence ensures your Grinch Cookies are perfectly soft and chewy right when you need them.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out green food coloring for red or blue if you’re feeling adventurous! You could also add chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles for extra flair. Make these cookies uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Grinch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds; they’ll taste freshly baked again!

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and creamier texture.
Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can turn these delightful cookies into hard stones.
Always let the cookies cool on the tray before transferring them to avoid crumbling.

The first time I made Grinch Cookies, my friends devoured them within minutes! Their laughter echoed in my kitchen as they raved about how festive and delicious they were—definitely a memory worth repeating!

FAQs :

What are Grinch Cookies?

Grinch cookies are festive treats inspired by the beloved Dr. Seuss character, the Grinch. Typically, these cookies feature a vibrant green color, embodying the spirit of the holiday season. They are often made with ingredients like sugar, butter, and food coloring to achieve their signature hue. Many recipes also incorporate chocolate chips or red candy hearts for added flavor and a pop of color. These cookies not only look fun but also taste delicious, making them a hit at holiday gatherings.

How do you make Grinch Cookies?

To make Grinch cookies, start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in eggs and vanilla extract before adding flour, baking powder, salt, and green food coloring. Fold in chocolate chips or red candies for an extra treat. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake until golden around the edges. Allow them to cool before serving to enjoy these delightful holiday cookies with family and friends.

Can I customize Grinch Cookies?

Yes! You can customize Grinch cookies to suit your tastes. Consider adding different types of chocolate chips or nuts to enhance the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or peppermint, to give them a unique twist. For an even more festive touch, try decorating your cookies with icing or sprinkles after baking. These adjustments ensure that your Grinch cookies remain special for every occasion.

Where can I store leftover Grinch Cookies?

To keep leftover Grinch cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to prolong their freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers; they will last up to three months in the freezer. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying them again.

Conclusion for Grinch Cookies :

Grinch cookies are a fun and colorful addition to any holiday celebration. With their vibrant green hue and delightful taste, they capture the whimsical spirit of the season effortlessly. Making these festive treats is simple and allows for plenty of customization options based on personal preferences. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them at home with loved ones, Grinch cookies will surely bring joy and cheer during this special time of year.