Name: Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 2 h 29 min
Cuisine: Filipino-American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ tsp ube extract (or purple food coloring + flavoring); ½ cup (120ml) whole milk; ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker coating)

If you’re looking to add a vibrant twist to your cookie collection, the Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe is a spectacular treat that brings a delightful pop of color and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are not only eye-catching but also bursting with the subtle, sweet essence of ube, making them a standout choice for any occasion. The perfect balance between a slight crunch on the outside and a tender center will have you reaching for seconds – or thirds – in no time. Trust me, once you try this Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe, it will become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ten small white bowls and three brown eggs arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. The bowls contain different ingredients: one has light beige flour, another white powdered sugar, a third has two sticks of yellow butter, one holds a dark brown liquid, another a light amber liquid, one small bowl contains white granulated sugar, a white bowl is filled with a fine white powder, and another bowl is filled with white milk. The three eggs are placed near the center of the arrangement. The overall look is clean and bright, with all items evenly spaced and clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich butter that creates tender crumb to the ube extract that gives those gorgeous purple hues and unique flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up these charming cookies that are as delicious as they look.

All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250g): The foundational ingredient for structure and a soft crumb.
Baking powder (1 ½ tsp): Helps the cookies rise and develop that lovely crackled top.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Unsalted butter (½ cup / 115g), softened: Adds richness and moisture for tender cookies.
Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens and contributes to the crisp exterior of the cookies.
Large eggs (2): Binds the dough and adds to the soft texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A subtle background flavor that complements the ube perfectly.
Ube extract (1 ½ tsp) or purple food coloring + flavoring: The star ingredient imparting that characteristic purple color and delicate sweet flavor.
Whole milk (½ cup / 120ml): Keeps the dough moist and tender.
Powdered sugar (½ cup / 60g): For coating the cookies, giving them their signature crinkly look and a light dusting of sweetness.
Cornstarch (2 tbsp), optional: Mixed with powdered sugar to create a thicker coating that clings beautifully to the dough.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix ensures your cookies will have the perfect texture. Then, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl using your mixer until the mixture turns light and fluffy – this step is key for that delicate crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time so everything blends smoothly, followed by the vanilla and ube extracts for that gorgeous color and flavor. Gradually alternate adding your dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture in three parts, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix here to maintain tender cookies.

Step 2: Chill for Perfection

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for at least two hours or preferably overnight. This chilling period is essential because it prevents excessive spreading during baking and lets the flavors deepen. Trust me, this waiting game will pay off with perfectly shaped cookies.

Step 3: Preheat and Prep Baking Sheets

Once your dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper – this makes cleanup a breeze and helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of your chilled dough and roll them into balls. The dough might be a bit sticky, but just embrace it — it means these cookies will be tender. For the coating, combine powdered sugar and cornstarch (if using) in a small bowl, and roll each cookie ball until generously coated. This step creates the signature crackled appearance after baking.

Step 5: Bake to Sweet Perfection

Arrange the coated cookie balls on your prepared sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until they spread out and the tops crack beautifully. You may notice the centers look slightly underbaked; this is perfect because they will continue to set as they cool, resulting in gloriously soft centers with lightly crisp edges. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to Serve Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe

The image shows nine round purple cookies with a cracked pattern on top, dusted with white powdered sugar that fills the cracks, creating a contrast between the deep purple and bright white. The cookies are laid out in a 3 by 3 arrangement on a grey baking sheet, which rests on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a slightly rough texture with visible cracks, and all cookies are evenly spaced and uniform in size. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these cookies are beautiful on their own, adding a light dusting of additional powdered sugar before serving can enhance their lovely crinkled look. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the ube flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve these purple delights alongside a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a creamy glass of milk to balance their sweet, slightly floral flavor. They also pair delightfully well with tropical fruit salads or a scoop of coconut ice cream for a fun flavor fusion experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or gift, stack the cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with pastel ribbons to show off their vibrant color. You can also arrange them on a decorative platter with edible flowers or fresh berries for an irresistible and eye-catching dessert table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Purple Crinkle Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and preserves their delightful texture, making them just as enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies. For dough, shape into balls, place on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, place parchment between layers and freeze in a container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you like your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back a fresh-baked softness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I substitute ube extract with food coloring only?

While you can use purple food coloring alone, the ube extract provides a unique, sweet flavor that makes these cookies special. Without it, you’re missing that signature taste, but if you only want the color, food coloring will work.

Why do the cookies need to be refrigerated before baking?

Chilling the dough solidifies the fats and dampens yeast activity, which helps the cookies hold their shape and develop the iconic crinkle cracks instead of spreading flat.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be aware that texture might differ slightly. Make sure the baking powder and other ingredients you use are gluten-free as well.

What causes the crinkle effect on these cookies?

The powdered sugar coating combined with the dough rising and spreading in the oven causes the beautiful crackled surface that makes these cookies look so inviting.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Making the Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe is a joyous culinary adventure that yields stunning, tasty results each time. They’re perfect for sharing with family, friends, or treating yourself to a special moment of sweetness. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it has such a loyal following. So grab your mixer and ingredients, and dive into baking these charming cookies today – your taste buds will thank you!

Purple Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need