The moment you crack open a batch of freshly baked cookies, the world feels a little brighter. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I whipped up these Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies — their vibrant hue and the allure of cocoa create an irresistible combination. With just a simple scoop of dough rolled in powdered sugar, you can turn an ordinary day into a festive celebration.
After a long week filled with work and takeout meals, I decided it was time to reignite my love for home-baked treats. These cookies not only brought joy to my kitchen but also became an instant crowd-pleaser at my last gathering. Light and fluffy on the inside with a delightful crinkle on top, their striking red exterior is perfect for holidays, parties, or just because.
Join me on this delicious journey as we indulge in a simple yet impressive recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home, too. Let’s dive into the magic of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a short list of ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The unique flavor combines rich cocoa and a subtle sweetness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Their vibrant red color and beautiful crinkles make them a stunning addition to any dessert table, guaranteed to impress guests.
- Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple afternoon treat that brightens your day.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
Discover the simple ingredients for delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies.
For the Cookies
• All-purpose flour – essential for structure, providing a soft texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – gives the cookies that rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder – helps the cookies rise, creating a light and fluffy interior.
• Baking soda – enhances the cookie’s leavening for a perfect bake.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful crinkle.
• Large egg – binds the ingredients together and creates a tender texture.
• Red food coloring – provides that iconic red hue that makes these cookies stand out.
• Vanilla extract – a touch of warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Vinegar – reacts with baking soda, adding tenderness to the cookies.
• Powdered sugar – for dusting, creating a lovely contrast against the red cookies.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready to bake your way to happiness with these delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares your space for the deliciousness to come!
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium bowl: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This creates a balanced blend that will enhance the cookie’s texture and flavor.
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Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice a creamy, pale mixture that smells heavenly!
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Add the egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat until well combined. The vibrant color and rich flavor will start to come together beautifully.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky at this point.
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Chill the dough by covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for about 30 minutes. This step helps maintain the cookies’ shape while baking, resulting in those signature crinkles.
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Scoop out portions of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, and roll them into balls in your hands. A little practice will yield perfectly sized cookies every time!
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Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated; this adds a delightful touch and creates that classic crinkle effect when baking. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set while the centers remain soft. You’ll see cracks forming on top — that’s exactly what you want!
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them firm up just a bit while retaining that gentle softness.
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Serve the cookies and delight in their tender, vibrant red velvet flavor. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat you can easily prep ahead to save time during busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies just as delicious as if they were made on the spot!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavorful taste.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Place them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealed bag or container.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Baking these delightful cookies ushers in a wave of warmth and joy that deserves a lovely companion.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast. It’s the perfect scoop to elevate your dessert experience.
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Hot Cocoa: Warm, velvety hot cocoa is a comforting pairing that enhances the chocolate richness of the cookies. Sprinkle some marshmallows on top for an added treat!
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a fresh, tangy note, cutting through the sweetness while adding a burst of color.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over your cookies takes indulgence to another level. The smooth, rich flavor complements the red velvet beautifully.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: A smear of cream cheese frosting creates a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of traditional red velvet cake. This combo is a match made in dessert heaven.
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Coffee: A hot cup of coffee, whether black or sweetened, enhances the cocoa flavors of the cookies. The rich bitterness of coffee pairs exquisitely with these sweet delights.
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Milk: Never underestimate the classic pairing of cookies with a cold glass of milk. It’s a simple yet delightful way to enhance your cookie experience.
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Dessert Wine: A light, fruity dessert wine can elevate your cookie experience, adding a sophisticated touch to the sweet flavors. Look for a wine with berry notes for the best pairing!
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies even more special!
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Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, gooey surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the cocoa.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to give your cookies a warm, spicy twist that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Top cooled cookies with a swirl of cream cheese frosting for a delicious pairing that enhances the red velvet flavor.
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Vanilla Variation: Swap the red food coloring with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a beautiful vanilla-flavored cookie with a hint of cocoa.
Imagine sharing these delicious treats with loved ones, each under a delightful layer of frosting or sprinkled with those irresistible chocolate chips!
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Orange Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest to brighten the flavor and add a citrusy zing that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Festive Sprinkles: Roll your cookie dough balls in festive holiday sprinkles before baking to add a pop of color and fun, making them perfect for celebrations.
Experiment with these variations and find new favorites—there are countless ways to enjoy the magic of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
- Be careful not to overmix your dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can result in tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.
- When rolling your dough in powdered sugar, give each ball an even coat for that iconic crinkle effect when baking.
- Remember to check the cookies a minute or two before the timer goes off; they should be crinkled and set around the edges but remain soft in the center for the ideal texture.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This will make it easy to cream with the sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy mixture. As for the egg, it’s best to use it at room temperature as well, which can be done by simply leaving it out for about 30 minutes before using it.
How should I store my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, and how long do they last?
You can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 week in an airtight container. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storage to prevent condensation!
Can I freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, and what’s the best method?
Very! To freeze your cookies, first allow them to cool entirely. Then, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
What should I do if my cookies don’t crinkle properly?
If your cookies don’t develop the expected crinkle on top, don’t worry! Ensure you’ve chilled the dough properly for at least 30 minutes, as this helps maintain shape during baking. Make sure not to overbake them; they should come out soft in the center while the edges appear set. If your powdered sugar coating isn’t thick enough, try rolling them again for a more dramatic crinkle effect!
Are Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies safe for people with allergies?
While these cookies do contain common allergens like gluten, eggs, and dairy, they can be adapted for specific dietary needs! For a gluten-free version, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. For an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes). Always be sure to check labels for other ingredients if anyone has allergies.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Essential for structure, providing a soft texture.
- 1/3 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder Gives the cookies that rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder Helps the cookies rise, creating a light and fluffy interior.
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda Enhances the cookie's leavening for a perfect bake.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Adds richness and moisture; be sure it's softened for easy mixing.
- 1 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful crinkle.
- 1 large Egg Binds the ingredients together and creates a tender texture.
- 1 tablespoon Red food coloring Provides that iconic red hue that makes these cookies stand out.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract A touch of warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Vinegar Reacts with baking soda, adding tenderness to the cookies.
- 1 cup Powdered sugar For dusting, creating a lovely contrast against the red cookies.
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium bowl: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Chill the dough by covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for about 30 minutes.
- Scoop out portions of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, and roll them into balls in your hands.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated; arrange them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set while the centers remain soft.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve the cookies and delight in their tender, vibrant red velvet flavor.
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