Name: Irresistibly Soft Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure for the cookies.); 0.25 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Offers a subtle chocolate flavor.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Essential for leavening.); 1 pinch salt (Enhances sweetness.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Ensure it’s softened for mixing.); 1 cups granulated sugar (Provides sweetness.); 2 large eggs (Acts as a binding agent.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Infuses flavor.); 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring (For the striking color.); 0.5 cups powdered sugar (For rolling the dough balls.)

As I pulled a tray of these vibrant Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies from the oven, my kitchen was instantly transformed into a festive wonderland. Each cookie boasts a striking red hue, complemented by a cozy cocoa flavor that dances on the palate. Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to make, but they also provide a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, impressing friends and family alike with their delightful crinkled tops. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just trying to swap out fast food for something homemade, these soft and chewy treats offer that perfect touch of sweetness and nostalgia. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them ideal for when you want to whip out a special surprise at a moment’s notice. Ready to create cookies that are sure to be the talk of the table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible taste: The combination of rich cocoa and the iconic red hue makes each bite a delightful experience.

Effortless preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, perfect for any busy home cook.

Impressive presentation: The crinkled tops dusted with powdered sugar create a visually captivating cookie that will wow your guests.

Versatile delight: Great for holiday gatherings, these cookies are just as enjoyable for a cozy night in or as a sweet gift! Check out other festive ideas like Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies for more ways to impress.

Freezable goodness: Prepare them ahead of time—these cookies freeze beautifully, ensuring you have a treat ready whenever you need a little something special.

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Batter

All-purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure for the cookies; stick to a standard brand for the best results.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Offers a subtle chocolate flavor; avoid Dutch-processed cocoa to keep that rich red color.
Baking Powder – Essential for leavening, helping your cookies rise to that tender texture; make sure it’s fresh!
Salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors; regular table salt works perfectly here.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the cookies’ rich flavor and tenderness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness while helping with texture; can swap with a sweetener if desired.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent, adding moisture; use large eggs for consistency in baking.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth of flavor and enticing aroma; always choose pure extract for the best taste.
Red Gel Food Coloring – Imparts that striking red hue without adding extra liquid; start with 1 tablespoon and adjust as needed.
Powdered Sugar – Essential for rolling the dough balls, creating that lovely crinkled effect during baking.

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but a delightful treat for the taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture will provide the structure and chocolate flavor for your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies. Set it aside while you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The creamy texture will create the perfect foundation for your cookies, ensuring they are soft and chewy.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of red gel food coloring until fully incorporated. The vibrant color will give your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies their signature look, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender; you want to see a uniform dough forming without dry flour spots. If the dough feels sticky, don’t worry—that’s perfect for achieving that desired crinkle texture!

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is a crucial step to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, allowing them to maintain their lovely crinkle appearance, which is a hallmark of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies.

Step 6: Shape and Coat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoons of the chilled dough, rolling each piece into a ball. Roll the balls in powdered sugar until fully coated, creating a thick layer. This sugar coating will produce the beautiful crackle effect as the cookies bake.

Step 7: Bake
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft. They should have a vibrant red color peeking through the powdered sugar. Allow them to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days; this keeps them soft and chewy, ensuring every bite is delightful.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This revives their soft texture and flavor, making them irresistible!

Dough Freezing: Consider freezing unbaked dough balls. Shape and coat them in powdered sugar, then freeze on a baking sheet. Store in a container for easy baking later.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

These delightful cookies bring a sweet, festive touch to any gathering, and pairing them takes your dessert experience to another level!

Velvet Cream Cheese Frosting: A creamy frosting complements the cookies’ texture with rich tanginess, making each bite even more indulgent.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries provides a refreshing contrast, balancing sweetness with a burst of flavor.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup enhances the rich cocoa taste of the cookies while providing a comforting atmosphere for cozy gatherings.
Hot Cocoa: Pair with a rich, velvety hot cocoa to amplify the cozy vibes—add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warming touch.
Milkshake: A creamy vanilla or chocolate milkshake creates a treat reminiscent of childhood memories, delightful with the cookie’s soft chewiness!
Ice Cream Sundae: Consider draping these cookies over creamy ice cream; their crinkled texture adds an appealing crunch to each delicious scoop.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces into chocolate fondue for a fun twist that pairs the sweetness of the cookies with velvety chocolate.
Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy contrast, serve alongside nutty biscotti, offering textured variety and an Italian flair to your dessert table.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an added layer of richness that melds beautifully with the soft crinkle cookie texture.
Rose Lemonade: A refreshing floral beverage, this drink will cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your sweet tooth experience with a delicate touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling the dough in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can scoop and shape the dough into balls, roll them in powdered sugar, and freeze them for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, ensure you store the shaped dough in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. You’ll have fresh, delicious cookies with minimal effort, ready for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor and texture in your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies.
Dough Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much and ensures the signature crinkle effect.
Roll Generously: Make sure each dough ball is coated generously in powdered sugar. A thick layer is key to achieving that show-stopping cracked appearance.
Batch Baking: Bake cookies in batches rather than overcrowding the baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and retain their shape while baking.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months to maintain freshness.

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these cookies your own with exciting variations!

Chocolate Chip Swirl: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich flavor combination that elevates each bite. The chocolate compliments the red velvet beautifully!
Coconut Topping: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of each cookie before baking for a delightful crunch and tropical twist. The coconut will add a fun texture and hint of sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to introduce a savory element that balances the sweetness. These crunchy bits not only enhance flavor but also add delightful contrast to the cookie’s chewy texture.
Minty Freshness: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. This version would be perfect for a festive gathering, bringing a unique flavor that pairs well with the chocolate!
Cream Cheese Frosting: After cooling, pipe a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. This extra indulgence pairs perfectly with the rich flavors in the cookies!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected warmth that complements the other flavors. It’s a fun surprise that will have your taste buds singing!
Red Velvet Sandwich: Create a sandwich cookie by adding frosting between two cookies. It’s a fun way to serve them, creating a delightful dessert that looks as good as it tastes!

While you’re here, if you enjoy soft and chewy cookies, be sure to try out Twix Cookies Chewy or the luscious Oreo Cheesecake Cookies. They’re perfect for gifting or a special treat!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, opt for high-quality options like standard all-purpose flour and fresh baking powder for the best texture and flavor. I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed to maintain that stunning red hue. For the butter, make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending, and pick pure vanilla extract for a richer aroma and taste.

How long can I store my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Just be sure to keep them sealed to maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you’re planning to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!

What’s the best way to freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
For optimal freezing, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until they firm up. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. If you love warm cookies, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked texture.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, this might be due to dough that wasn’t chilled long enough. I suggest covering the dough again and chilling it for an additional 15-30 minutes. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the ingredients; mixing just until combined is key to avoiding excessive spreading.

Are Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies safe for those with food allergies?
Always check your ingredients! Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies contain gluten from flour and eggs, which may not be suitable for those with celiac disease or egg allergies. For alternative baking, consider using gluten-free flour blends and egg substitutes like flaxseed meal mixed with water. It’s important to adjust the recipe accordingly and test the results.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Certainly! You can freeze the dough before baking for added convenience. Just scoop the dough into balls, roll them in powdered sugar, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge before rolling in powdered sugar and baking as usual.