- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate crinkle cake)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra moisture)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Optional Variations:
- Red Velvet: Add red food coloring and reduce cocoa powder for a festive twist.
- Pumpkin Spice: Substitute cocoa powder with pumpkin puree and add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder (if making chocolate), baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter will be thick and sticky.
3. Coat with Powdered Sugar
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the batter and roll them into balls using your hands.
- Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring it’s fully coated. The thicker the coating, the more dramatic the crackle effect will be.
- Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
4. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- The cakes will develop their signature crackled appearance as they bake.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of elegance.
- Enjoy every bite of these soft, fudgy, and indulgent Crinkle Cakes!
- Perfect as a standalone dessert, paired with coffee or tea, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: If the batter feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before rolling it into balls.
- Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar: The thick layer of powdered sugar is key to creating the signature crackled top.
- Experiment with Flavors: Swap cocoa powder for spices, fruit purees, or extracts to create unique variations.
- Store Properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Why This Recipe Works
This Crinkle Cake combines the rich, fudgy texture of a dense cake with the striking visual appeal of a crackled, powdered sugar crust into a dessert that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone treat or customized with your favorite flavors, these cakes deliver big on taste and presentation.
Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dessert prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Crinkle Cake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
