Crinkles

Crinkles: Delicious chocolate cookies, a perfect treat for any time of the day

Crinkles cookies are a popular choice in the dessert world, featuring a soft texture and an intense chocolate flavor. These delightful treats, with their distinctive cracked appearance, are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual pleasure. Each bite brings a perfect blend of chocolate and flavors, and their preparation is so simple that anyone can become a kitchen master.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Number of servings: Approximately 20 cookies

The History of Crinkles Cookies
Crinkles cookies became popular due to their unique appearance and intense chocolate flavor. It is said that they originated from 20th-century cake recipes, inspired by various baking techniques that emphasized the use of quality chocolate. These cookies are often associated with moments of celebration and joy, making them an ideal dessert for family gatherings or parties.

Required Ingredients
- 150 g soft butter, cubed (make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 150 g granulated sugar (for a perfectly balanced sweetness)
- 2 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 200 g flour (choose a high-quality flour for the best results)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (for an intense chocolate flavor)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder (to help the cookies rise)
- 135 g (one and a half bars) dark chocolate, chopped (use quality chocolate with a high cocoa content)
- 1 vial rum extract (for an extra flavor boost)
- 100 g powdered sugar (to create that characteristic white crust)

Step by step for Crinkles cookies

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking the butter and eggs out of the fridge to reach room temperature. This will help achieve a more homogeneous mixture.

2. Creaming butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix the ingredients for 3-5 minutes until you obtain a fluffy and uniform cream. This step is essential for incorporating air into the mixture, making the cookies fluffier.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step will ensure a smooth and delicious texture.

4. Including the rum extract: Add the rum extract to the butter and egg mixture, giving the cookies a flavorful note that perfectly complements the chocolate taste.

5. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients well to ensure that the baking powder and cocoa are evenly distributed.

6. Incorporating the dry ingredients into the mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter cream, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this could develop gluten in the flour, leading to denser cookies.

7. Adding the chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and fold it into the dough, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This will add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the cookies.

8. Chilling the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This step is important as it helps the dough become firmer, making it easier to form balls.

9. Preparing the baking sheets: While the dough is chilling, prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and will make cleanup easier later.

10. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 190°C, making sure it is well heated before placing the cookies inside.

11. Forming the cookies: Using a spoon, form small balls from the dough and roll them in powdered sugar, ensuring they are completely covered. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a space of 2-3 cm between them, as they will spread during baking.

12. Baking the cookies: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. You will know they are ready when their surface cracks, and the edges are firm while the inside remains soft.

13. Cooling the cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a rack for a few minutes before transferring them to a platter. This step will help maintain their fluffy texture.

Tips and variations
- You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- Add a handful of nuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Serve Crinkles cookies with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for an unforgettable culinary experience.
- If you enjoy exotic flavors, try adding a bit of cinnamon to the dry ingredient mix.

Nutritional benefits
These cookies are a good source of energy due to their sugar and chocolate content, but moderate consumption is essential. The butter brings healthy fats, while dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
- Yes, but the cookies will have a different texture and may require adjustments to the liquid amount.

2. What if I don’t have rum extract?
- You can use vanilla extract or omit this ingredient.

3. How can I store the cookies?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Crinkles cookies are a perfect choice for any occasion, bringing a touch of joy in every bite. I hope you will try this delicious recipe and treat your friends and family to these delights!