Grinch Sugar Cookies: 12 Festive Treats to Spread Joy

Jump to Recipe

Grinch Sugar Cookies are the ultimate festive treat for the holiday season! These delightful cookies are soft, chewy, and vibrantly green, featuring a charming red heart at their center. Perfect for cookie exchanges, Grinch movie nights, or just to delight your little ones, these cookies are incredibly easy to make with no chilling time required. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these Grinch-themed sugar cookies that will bring joy to your holiday festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Grinch Sugar Cookies

These Grinch Sugar Cookies are not just visually appealing; they also deliver on taste and convenience. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore them:

Quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute treat.
No chill time required, which means you can enjoy them faster.
Festively green, these cookies add a fun pop of color to your holiday spread.
Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Ideal for decorating, allowing creativity with Grinch cookie decorating ideas.
A delightful treat for kids and adults alike, making them a hit at parties.
Versatile enough to adapt into Grinch sugar cookie variations.
Great for gifting during the holiday season, spreading cheer and love!

Ingredients for Grinch Sugar Cookies

Gather these items:

1 stick (8 tablespoons/4 oz) unsalted butter
2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus 2–3 tablespoons for rolling
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3–5 drops green gel food coloring
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
12 small red heart sprinkles (or red M&Ms, Red Hots, or cinnamon imperials)

How to Make Grinch Sugar Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Let cool slightly for 2 minutes.
Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted butter, ⅔ cup sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and thickened.
Step 4: Add 3–5 drops green gel food coloring and stir until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until no flour streaks remain.
Step 6: Divide dough into 12 portions using a small cookie scoop. Roll into smooth balls.
Step 7: Roll each dough ball in 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully coated.
Step 8: Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–11 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly soft.
Step 9: Immediately press one red heart sprinkle into the center of each hot cookie after removing from the oven.
Step 10: Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Grinch Sugar Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for kids and cookie exchanges.
Great for Grinch movie nights.
Don’t overmix the dough to keep cookies soft and chewy.
For more festive flair, consider decorating the cookies with additional icing or edible glitter.

Best Ways to Serve Grinch Sugar Cookies

These cookies can be served in various ways:

Pair them with a tall glass of milk for a classic treat.
Use them as a centerpiece on your holiday dessert table.
Include them in gift baskets for friends and family, adding a personal touch to your holiday gifts.

How to Store and Reheat Grinch Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have leftovers, they can last up to a week. For a warm treat, simply microwave them for a few seconds before serving!

Frequently Asked Questions About Grinch Sugar Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Grinch Sugar Cookies?

The secret lies in the consistency of your dough. Make sure not to overmix after adding flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Aim for a soft and slightly sticky dough for the best results.

Can I make Grinch Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just roll the dough into balls and coat them in sugar before baking when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Grinch Sugar Cookies?

Common mistakes include overbaking or using too much flour. Measure your ingredients carefully and watch the baking time closely to ensure they come out soft and chewy.

Variations of Grinch Sugar Cookies You Can Try

Consider these fun twists on the classic recipe:

Add peppermint extract for a minty flavor.
Use different colored sprinkles or themed decorations for various holidays.
Try adding chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist.
Make Grinch-shaped sugar cookies by using themed cookie cutters.

Grinch Sugar Cookies: 12 Festive Treats to Spread Joy - Grinch Sugar Cookies - additional detail

For more festive ideas, check out our Banana Split Fruit Pizza or try making Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies. If you’re looking for a savory option, our Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a great choice. Don’t forget to explore Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins for a delightful breakfast treat!

For more information on baking techniques, you can visit King Arthur Baking’s guide on cookies.