These cookies are easy to make, and the dough requires no chilling, meaning you can whip them up quickly whenever a chocolate craving hits. The sprinkles on the outside add a playful crunch and vibrant appearance, making them a hit with both kids and adults. They’re also perfect for themed events—just switch up the sprinkle colors to match the occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Milk (optional, for softer dough)
Chocolate sprinkles (or rainbow sprinkles)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add a splash of milk if the dough feels too dry.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles until fully coated.
Place on the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking time is 9–11 minutes.
Variations
Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness.
Holiday Colors: Use themed sprinkles for holidays like red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter.
Espresso Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Twist: Mix in finely chopped hazelnuts or pecans to the dough.
Filled Version: Flatten dough balls slightly and place a chocolate kiss or mini truffle in the center before baking.
Storage/Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let cookies cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy warm, microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, just-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use Dutch-process for a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
What kind of sprinkles work best?
Use jimmies (long sprinkles) rather than nonpareils (tiny round ones), as they adhere better and don’t bleed as much during baking.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling is required, making this a quick and easy cookie recipe.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Butter is recommended for best results.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Too much butter or not enough flour can cause spreading. Measure ingredients carefully and use parchment paper for even baking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Are these cookies good for decorating?
Absolutely. The sprinkles already make them decorative, but you can drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch.
How do I get perfectly round cookies?
After baking, use a round cookie cutter to gently nudge the cookies into shape while they’re still warm.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before shaping and baking.
Are these cookies chewy or crispy?
They are soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges, especially when not overbaked.
Conclusion
Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies are an easy and delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with playful presentation. With no need to chill the dough and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion, big or small. Whether you’re baking for kids or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a go-to favorite.
Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies are soft, chewy chocolate cookies rolled in colorful sprinkles for a fun and festive treat. Quick to make and perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave chocolate.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:11 minutes
Total Time:26 minutes
Yield:24 cookies
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (optional, if dough is too dry)
1/2 cup chocolate or rainbow sprinkles (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add a splash of milk if the dough feels too dry.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Roll each dough ball in chocolate or rainbow sprinkles until fully coated.
Place on the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are set and centers are soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
No chilling required—quick and easy to prepare.Use jimmies instead of nonpareils to avoid bleeding colors and ensure better coating.Add chocolate chips or espresso powder for a richer flavor.Use themed sprinkles to match holidays or events.Cookies freeze well and reheat nicely in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
