Easy Grinch Cookies

Every Christmas, I find myself drawn to the same kind of recipes bright, cheerful, and filled with joy. That’s exactly what these Easy Grinch Cookies bring to the table. They’re soft, minty, and so simple to make that even kids can help.

These cookies are made with a cake mix base, so you don’t have to measure out flour, sugar, or baking powder. Just mix, roll, bake, and you’re ready to share something special. If you’re looking for a family-friendly cookie recipe that captures the magic of the holidays, this one’s for you.

They remind me a lot of the playful spirit behind Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies both are fun, festive, and disappear faster than you expect.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Grinch Cookies

This recipe isn’t just cute it’s genuinely delicious.

Here’s why it’s one of my favorite Christmas cookie recipes every year:

• The mint flavor gives them that refreshing holiday touch without being overpowering.
• They start with a box of white cake mix, which makes the process fast and foolproof.
• Kids love rolling the dough and pressing the little red hearts on top.
• They look beautiful on cookie trays and dessert tables.
• You can make them ahead of time and freeze for later.

I first made these on a snowy December evening when I was running behind on baking. I didn’t have the patience for a complicated recipe, and these cookies turned out to be the easiest and most festive treat on the table. Everyone asked for seconds — right after I served Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, which have a similar soft, chewy texture.

Ingredients for Grinch Cookies

You only need a few pantry staples to whip up these adorable cookies:

• 15.25 oz white cake mix (one standard box)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract (or mint extract)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green gel food coloring
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon candies

Tip: The peppermint extract makes these cookies taste like Christmas, but if you prefer something milder, vanilla alone will still taste amazing.

If you enjoy peppermint flavor, you’ll also love these Peppermint Brownie Bites — they pair perfectly with the Grinch Cookies on a dessert platter.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Grinch Cookies

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dough

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat together the cake mix, softened butter, and eggs until the dough comes together. It will be thick and sticky.

3. Add the Flavor and Color

Mix in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a few drops of green food coloring. Start with a little — you can always add more to get that perfect Grinch green.

4. Coat the Dough Balls

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Scoop the dough (about 1½ tablespoons per cookie) and roll each ball in the sugar mixture until coated.

Place them on the baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between cookies.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look dry. They’ll puff up slightly and have a soft, crinkled look.

If you love soft, crinkled cookies like this, check out the Chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies or Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies. Both use similar techniques for that signature crinkle texture.

6. Add the Heart

While the cookies are still warm, gently press a red heart sprinkle or cinnamon candy into the center of each one. It’s the sweetest little touch that makes the cookies instantly recognizable.

7. Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

That’s it — no chilling, no fancy techniques, just pure holiday joy.

Tips for Perfect Grinch Cookies

• Use gel food coloring instead of liquid. It’s more concentrated and won’t water down your dough.
• Don’t overbake — they should be soft in the middle. They’ll firm up as they cool.
• Try different extracts. Peppermint is classic, but almond extract adds a cozy sweetness.
• Double the batch if you’re baking for a crowd. They disappear fast.
• Make it a family project. Let kids roll the dough and add the hearts — it’s a fun, memory-making moment.

When I bake these, I usually set up a little “cookie decorating station” at the counter. My kids take turns choosing their favorite heart sprinkles. We laugh, make a mess, and somehow that messy kitchen always feels like the heart of Christmas.

For a similar family-baking experience, I recommend making Melted Snowman Sugar Cookies — they’re just as whimsical and perfect for little helpers.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips

• Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
• To freeze, let them cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. They taste just as soft and minty as the day you baked them.

If you’re hosting a cookie exchange, these store beautifully next to Italian Ricotta Cookies or Best Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Creative Variations and Fun Additions

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is.

Try these variations to make the cookies your own:

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add white chocolate chips or mini semi-sweet chips to the dough before baking.
• Grinchy Sprinkle Mix: Use a mix of red, white, and green sprinkles in addition to the heart.
• Valentine’s Version: Swap the green coloring for pink and keep the hearts — it’s perfect for February.
• Classic Vanilla: Skip the peppermint for a simple vanilla cookie that everyone will love.

If you enjoy experimenting, check out Candy Cane Cookies — they’re another fun, colorful Christmas favorite that lets you play with shape and color.

Cooking should never feel rigid or intimidating. I always tell my readers: recipes are just a guide. The best results come from playing around and adding your own touch.

Family Moments That Make It Worth It

The real magic of these cookies isn’t in the recipe — it’s in the moments around it.

There’s something special about baking a batch while holiday music plays in the background and everyone sneaks a taste of dough when they think you’re not looking.

Even on busy days, these cookies remind me that joy can be simple. You don’t need hours in the kitchen to make something meaningful. Sometimes, all it takes is a green cookie and a red heart to make a memory.

And if you want to keep the baking fun going, make it a weekend tradition. Try The Red-Nosed Reindeer Sugar Cookies for another kid-friendly recipe that spreads smiles and laughter.

FAQs about Easy Grinch Cookies

Easy Grinch Cookies: The Perfect Christmas Tradition

These Easy Grinch Cookies are more than just a cute holiday treat — they’re a tradition waiting to happen.

They’re easy enough for beginners, fun enough for kids, and delicious enough for everyone. Every bite tastes like a bit of Christmas spirit.

So grab your mixing bowl, turn on your favorite holiday playlist, and bake a batch that will make even the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes.

If you loved these, be sure to explore other festive favorites like Gingerbread Kiss Cookies or Christmas Snowball Cookies.

Save and Share

If you loved this recipe, save it to your Pinterest board so you can find it again next holiday season.

Share your own version with the hashtag #EasyGrinchCookies and tag me — I love seeing your creations and how you make these cookies part of your family’s traditions.

Because in the end, it’s not just about cookies. It’s about connection, creativity, and the simple joy of making something together.

Print