This recipe makes a crinkle cookie just like the ones I spent my childhood baking and eating. They're soft, tender, and just a little bit chewy, with a delicate exterior that's coated with a thick layer of powdered sugar.

Crinkle cookies get their well-deserved name from the way the cookie splits and cracks along the sugar-covered top and sides as it bakes. And while they look pretty, what makes these cookies stand out is their robust chocolate flavor. With one bite you'll discover a rich and indulgent flavor that's more reminiscent of a truffle than a cookie.

While most crinkle cookies get only a single coating of sugar, this recipe goes further. Before being rolled in powdered sugar, the cookie dough balls are first rolled in granulated sugar. The texture helps the powdered sugar better adhere to the dough, and it adds a delicate crisp bite that coats the whole cookie.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Makes about 36 cookies
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup powdered sugar

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat until completely incorporated. Add the melted chocolate and beat until completely incorporated. Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined.

Chill the dough for at least 2 hours until firm, or up to overnight.

Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Place the granulated sugar and powdered sugar in separate small bowls. Scoop 1 tablespoon of the dough, form into a ball, and place on a plate. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Roll each ball in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar to coat. Place on the baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cookies begin to spread and the tops split. Remove from the oven and cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer the cookies to wire cooling racks. Let the baking sheet cool, and repeat with the remaining dough

Recipe Notes

Storage: Cookies will keep in an airtight container for about one week.