Grinch Green Holiday Cookies

Grinch Cookies are a showstopper for any holiday cookie tray with their vibrant green color and irresistible soft texture. These cheerful treats embody the classic Grinch spirit complete with a little red candy heart that captures the magic of the season. The cream cheese and sour cream in the dough give these cookies a craveable pillowy softness you will love, and kids are always delighted by how fun they look.

The first time I baked these we made a double batch so there would be enough for both a school party and our own family dessert board. My kids insisted on sticking on the candy hearts themselves and now it is a yearly tradition.

Ingredients

• Salted butter: helps build a rich flavor base use unsalted if needed but add an extra pinch of salt for balance
• Sugar: provides sweetness and the classic cookie texture opt for fine-granulated for best results
• Cream cheese and sour cream: these create the creamiest and softest cookies look for high-quality full-fat versions for best texture
• Large eggs: at room temperature help with a lighter fluffier dough
• Vanilla extract and almond extract: both add wonderful depth if you do not love almond just use vanilla
• Green food coloring: gives the classic Grinch look gel varieties give the most vibrant color pay attention to the shade and add slowly
• All purpose flour: forms the structure sift if you like but the most important thing is not to pack your cup to avoid overly dense cookies
• Baking powder and baking soda: these are necessary for the perfect rise and softness always use fresh for best results
• Red candy hearts: these are the signature decoration find them in baking aisles or use red M and Ms if you cannot locate hearts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl combine softened butter and sugar Beat with an electric mixer for about three minutes until the mixture is creamy and light This step makes the cookies soft and ensures even sweetness throughout

Blend the Cream Cheese and Sour Cream:

Add the cream cheese and sour cream to the butter mixture Beat until the mix looks smooth and fully combined This will ensure an ultra tender texture

Mix in Eggs and Flavorings:

Crack in the eggs one at a time beating well after each addition Add the vanilla and almond extracts Mix thoroughly so the flavor is evenly distributed The batter should look silky

Color the Dough:

Add green food coloring Drop in gel coloring a little at a time and blend until the dough is your desired Grinch green Add yellow plus a tiny bit of blue if using standard colors instead of neon

Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate medium bowl whisk together the flour baking powder baking soda and salt Whisk well so the rise is even throughout the cookies

Incorporate the Dry into Wet:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture Mixing gently just until no flour remains Overmixing can make the cookies dense

Chill the Dough:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight Chilling helps the dough firm up and makes scooping easier

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Sheets:

Set the oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper This step prevents sticking and guarantees even baking

Shape and Coat the Cookies:

Scoop dough using a small or medium cookie scoop Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until evenly coated This adds a snowy effect and a light sweetness on the outside

Bake:

Place balls on the baking sheet with enough space between them Bake for 14 to 16 minutes Depending on the size check at 12 minutes The cookies should look set but still soft in the center

Decorate and Cool:

Remove the tray from the oven and quickly press a red candy heart into the top of each cookie Let cool completely on the baking sheet so they are stable and hold their shape

My favorite part is always the scent of almond as the cookies bake just a touch makes each bite extra special. Whenever we make these for the holidays my kids compete over who can press the most hearts and I love seeing their bright green hands from the food coloring.

Storage Tips

Keep Grinch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days They also freeze well for up to three months Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have red candy hearts try using red M and Ms or even a dab of red gel icing You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream and leave out almond extract if you prefer only vanilla

Serving Suggestions

These cookies look beautiful arranged on a holiday platter especially with other festive treats Serve with mugs of hot chocolate or leave a few out for Santa

Cultural Context

Grinch Cookies are inspired by Dr Seuss’s classic Christmas story and movie The Grinch The bright green color and little red heart capture the change of heart of the Grinch and bring a sense of playfulness and cheer to your holiday traditions

Common Recipe Questions

→ Where can I find red candy hearts for decoration?

Red candy hearts are usually available at stores like Walmart, Michaels, or online retailers such as Amazon. They add the perfect festive touch.

→ Can I swap the red hearts with something else?

If red hearts are unavailable, use red M&M’s or other small red candies as a colorful alternative.

→ Do I have to use almond extract?

No, almond extract is optional. You can use just vanilla extract if you prefer a more classic taste profile.

→ How is the vibrant green color achieved?

A neon green gel food coloring works best. If needed, try mixing yellow and a touch of blue food coloring for a custom green shade.

→ What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.

→ Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, simply add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the dough if using unsalted butter.