1. What does olive oil do to cookies?

Olive oil keeps cookies soft, moist, and tender by adding extra moisture compared to butter. It also gives cookies a subtle fruity richness, enhancing flavors like citrus and chocolate. Additionally, olive oil helps baked goods stay fresh for longer because it doesn’t solidify like butter at room temperature.

2. Why didn’t my crinkle cookies crinkle?

If your crinkle cookies didn’t develop the signature cracked surface, here are some common reasons: Dough wasn’t chilled long enough – Chilling helps the cookies spread properly and form deep cracks. Let the dough rest for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Not enough powdered sugar – A thick coating of powdered sugar is essential for the crinkle effect. Roll the dough generously in powdered sugar. Oven temperature was too low – Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures the cookies spread and crack properly. If your oven runs cool, preheat it for an extra few minutes. Dough was too dry – If you added too much flour, the cookies won’t spread properly. Measure ingredients accurately using the spoon-and-level method.

3. What is the secret ingredient to keep cookies soft?

The key ingredients to keep cookies soft include: Olive oil – Retains moisture longer than butter, keeping cookies soft for days. Brown sugar (if used) – Contains molasses, which adds moisture and chewiness. Cornstarch – Helps create a soft, tender texture by preventing too much gluten formation. Chilling the dough – Controls spreading and locks in moisture.

4. Can you bake cookies with olive oil instead of butter?

Yes! Olive oil is a great substitute for butter in cookies. Use a 1:1 ratio (e.g., replace ½ cup butter with ½ cup olive oil ). However, since butter is solid at room temperature and olive oil is liquid, cookies made with olive oil may spread more. To prevent excess spreading, chill the dough longer or add 1 extra tablespoon of flour .

Orange Olive Oil Crinkle Cookies – The Best Soft & Chewy Recipe!

Description

A delicious citrus twist on classic crinkle cookies! These soft, chewy cookies are made with extra virgin olive oil and fresh orange zest, creating a beautifully cracked and powdered sugar-coated treat.

Ingredients

Scale

✅ Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

✅ Wet Ingredients:

¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

✅ For Rolling:

¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2️⃣ In a separate bowl, beat sugar, eggs, and olive oil until smooth.
3️⃣ Add orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
4️⃣ Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

❄️ Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).

Step 3: Roll & Coat the Dough

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3️⃣ Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
4️⃣ Coat each ball in granulated sugar first, then in powdered sugar.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

🔥 Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
💨 Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months—bake straight from frozen!

Nutrition

Calories: ~130
Sugar: 10g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g