Fudge Crinkle Cookies with Chocolate Orange Chunks

If you adore the marriage of deep, rich chocolate with the citrusy sparkle of orange, then prepare yourself for a flavor experience that walks the line between cozy comfort and refreshing brightness. These Zesty Fudge Crinkle Cookies are the kind of treat that taste like brownies and cookies had a delicious baby. The exterior is crackly and delicate, while the inside stays irresistibly fudgy. Each bite is intensified by bright orange zest and decadent chunks of chocolate orange nestled throughout.

The combination of orange and chocolate is a timeless classic. There’s something about the tangy zest paired with deep, bittersweet chocolate that makes these cookies almost impossible to resist. They’re perfect for winter holiday trays, afternoon tea indulgences, or just a comforting midnight snack when you need something sweet, warm, and nostalgic.

But what takes these cookies up a notch? The layers. We use both semi-sweet chocolate and a special orange-infused chocolate to build richness and dimension. The batter itself is laced with real orange zest, so the citrus essence doesn’t fade in the oven—it blooms.

Texture-wise, these cookies deliver. You get a crisp top that crinkles like a brownie, giving way to a chewy, soft center. They aren’t overly sweet, which is key for highlighting the chocolate complexity and citrus flair. Adding a small splash of whole milk to the dough makes them extra tender and fudgy.

These cookies come together fairly easily, too. You’ll melt some chocolate and butter together, fold that glossy mixture into a blend of eggs, sugars, orange zest, and milk, and then combine it all with your dry ingredients. Chill the dough, scoop it onto a baking tray, and in minutes you’ll have cookie perfection.

If you’re baking these for a crowd, be warned: they disappear fast. Everyone seems to fall under their spell, drawn in by the scent of cocoa and citrus wafting through the kitchen. And while the flavors may feel fancy, the recipe itself is simple and reliable.

These cookies are also great for gifting. Stack a few in a clear bag, tie with a ribbon, and you’ve got a homemade gift that feels both heartfelt and gourmet. They freeze beautifully too, so make a double batch and save some for later.

Try pairing these with a cup of strong black tea, an espresso, or even a hot cocoa for an ultra-chocolatey moment. The interplay of warmth, spice, and brightness feels like a hug for your taste buds.

And if you want to lean into the holiday theme, roll the dough in powdered sugar before baking for a snow-dusted effect. They’ll come out of the oven looking like little chocolate craters from a sweet planet far, far away.

From a flavor standpoint, the orange chocolate chunks offer a surprise burst with every bite. They slightly melt in the oven, becoming pockets of citrus-scented ganache that play perfectly against the chewy dough.

These cookies are kid-approved, grandparent-endorsed, and colleague-adored. They’re a twist on tradition that never fails to impress. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because you need a little sweetness, this recipe will be your new go-to.

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 16–19 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plus 2 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour (do not pack)
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tbsp whole milk
• 7 oz orange chocolate, chopped (reserve some for topping if desired)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter in 15-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth.
4. Whisk in vanilla, then add both sugars and orange zest. Stir until well combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in milk.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in chopped orange chocolate.
8. Cover and chill dough for 30 minutes.
9. Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
10. Bake one tray at a time. Once cookies go into the oven, reduce heat to 300°F (150°C).
11. Bake for 16 to 19 minutes, or until edges are set and tops are dark and shiny.
12. Press reserved orange chocolate chunks into tops of warm cookies if desired.
13. Allow cookies to cool completely on baking sheet before serving.

Tips:

• Chilling is essential for structure and crinkle tops.
• Press extra orange chocolate on top for bakery-style finish.
• Don’t overbake—slightly underdone is perfect.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for later.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies:

• Deep chocolate flavor with a zesty twist
• Rich brownie texture in cookie form
• Eye-catching, crowd-pleasing, and totally delicious
• Easy prep with gourmet results

These upgraded Zesty Fudge Crinkle Cookies are irresistibly chewy with shiny crinkled tops and bold orange-chocolate flavor. Perfectly festive and easy to make, they combine the best of brownies and cookies into one unforgettable treat.