Name: Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies: Indulge in Festive Deliciousness
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose Flour; 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Opt for natural cocoa for best taste.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Butter (softened) (Delivers rich flavor.); 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cookies.); 2 large Eggs (Bind ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds aromatic quality.); 1 tablespoon Red Gel Food Coloring (For vibrant color.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For coating the cookies.)

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With a pop of color that brings joy to any dessert table, these Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a holiday wonder. Just imagine walking into your kitchen and inhaling the sweet, rich scent of freshly baked cookies that balance a soft, chewy inside with a delightful crinkle coat of powdered sugar. Creating these easy holiday treats is a breeze, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just stepping into the holiday baking scene. They promise to be a crowd-pleaser at festive gatherings while also allowing you the comfort of homemade goodness. Who wouldn’t want to take a bite of these stunning cookies and feel the warmth of the season? Get ready to roll up your sleeves and add a splash of red to your baking lineup—what festive fun awaits as we dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?

Irresistible Appeal: The vibrant red color topped with a snowy powdered sugar coating turns these cookies into a visual feast that will impress your guests.

Easy Process: With simple instructions and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.

Festive Flavor: The rich hint of cocoa combined with a sweet, chewy texture makes each bite feel like a holiday celebration.

Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie platters, gifting, or enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee or tea, these cookies fit seamlessly into any occasion.

Make Ahead: Want to save time? Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for a quick baking solution whenever the cookie craving hits—perfect for unexpected guests!

Elevate your dessert game and check out our delightful Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies for another crowd-pleasing treat!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for crafting these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose Flour – Essential for providing structure in these chewy cookies.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor; opt for natural cocoa for the best taste.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to achieve that tender, fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances the cookie flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

For the Wet Mix

Butter (softened) – Delivers rich flavor and contributes to a nice crumb texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps them spread beautifully.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together; beat until pale for the best results.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely aromatic quality that complements the chocolate.
Red Gel Food Coloring – Provides that stunning red hue; start with 1 teaspoon for vibrancy.

For the Signature Coating

Powdered Sugar – Creates that signature crackled effect when cookies are rolled in it. Ensure to coat thoroughly for maximum visual appeal.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to embark on creating the most enchanting Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies that are sure to be a hit at any festive gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture lays the foundation for your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, ensuring they have the perfect structure and flavor balance. Set this bowl aside, allowing the dry ingredients to blend.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, roughly 3-5 minutes. This aeration is key in achieving a soft texture for your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies. You’ll see the color lighten as air gets incorporated; be sure to scrape down the bowl to combine evenly.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Include 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and gradually mix in 1 tablespoon of red gel food coloring until you achieve your desired vibrant shade. The resulting mixture should be smooth and fluffy, providing that stunning red color which makes these cookies so festive.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, taking care not to overwork the dough. Mix just until no dry streaks remain, and the ingredients are fully incorporated. The dough for your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies will be thick and a bit sticky, perfect for shaping after chilling.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential for firming up the dough, preventing your cookies from spreading too much during baking. While you wait, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go as soon as the dough is chilled.

Step 6: Shape and Coat
Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each dough ball in a plate full of powdered sugar until they are thoroughly coated. This is what will give your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies their signature crinkled appearance after baking, so make sure they’re well covered.

Step 7: Bake
Arrange the coated cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. When done, the tops should look crackled and glossy, beckoning you to take a bite. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents spreading and helps achieve that perfect crinkle texture.
Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, so use the spoon-and-level method for best results.
Use Gel Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring rather than liquid to avoid altering the moisture level. It provides a vibrant red without compromising the cookies’ texture.
Rolling Technique: Roll your dough balls thoroughly in powdered sugar. A generous coating ensures that beautiful crackled appearance we all adore is prominently featured.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be soft in the center when done. This results in a chewy texture that’s key to a successful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add white chocolate chips or nuts for an exciting twist and enhance the flavor profile of your festive cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort later! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, simply roll the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, you can thaw the dough balls in the refrigerator overnight. Finally, just pop the thawed dough on a baking sheet and bake as directed for delightful cookies that are just as scrumptious as fresh. Enjoy the time-saving benefit without sacrificing quality!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and personalizations that will make your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies even more exciting and tailored to your taste!

Add White Chocolate: Fold in white chocolate chips before chilling for a creamy sweetness. The contrast of flavors creates an indulgent treat everyone will love.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft cookie base. The added nutty flavor will elevate the holiday vibe!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle kick. It adds a warm, spicy depth that makes these cookies irresistible.
Festive Colors: Instead of red, use different gel food coloring for various holidays—green for Christmas or pastel for Easter. Customize the festivities in every bite!
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a hint of citrus brightness. This refreshing note complements the chocolate beautifully, balancing the flavors.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for extra indulgence. It’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Caramel Surprise: Stuff each dough ball with a caramel candy before baking. When bitten into, the gooey center adds a surprise delight.
Chocolate Swap: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of unsweetened for a deeper chocolate flavor. This variation brings a different dimension to your cookies.

These variations make baking your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies a fun and creative adventure! For even more tasty inspirations, check out our luscious Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls or a refreshing take on cookies with our delightful Mango Cookies.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

There’s nothing like sharing a delightful spread of flavors and textures alongside these gorgeous cookies to elevate your dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess tempers the cookies’ sweetness, creating a harmonious dessert experience that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries adds a refreshing burst of tartness, perfectly balancing the sweet indulgence of each cookie.
Hot Chocolate: A cozy cup of rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolate notes while providing an inviting warmth during the holidays.
Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty crunch of this festive treat contrasts nicely with the soft, chewy texture of the cookies, a wintry delight for the palate.
Coffee or Espresso: Steaming cups of coffee or espresso intensify the flavors, delivering a delightful caffeine kick to each sweet bite.
Whipped Cream Topped with Nuts: A dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with crunchy hazelnuts adds creaminess and a delightful textural contrast, making it a luxurious treat.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Their salty crunch provides variety and a lovely dip into chocolate, making for a playful pairing that elevates your cookie joy.
Milk: Classic cold milk is a timeless accompaniment that enhances the cookies’ flavors while washing down the sweetness for a comforting finale.

Storage Tips for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies in the fridge overnight or warm in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness.

Dough Storage: Freeze dough balls after rolling in powdered sugar for easy baking later; just thaw in the refrigerator before baking and enjoy fresh Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of cocoa powder should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsweetened natural cocoa powder. Avoid Dutch-processed cocoa as it can alter the cookie’s color and taste. The natural cocoa will ensure that your cookies have that rich chocolate flavor without compromising their vibrant red hue.

How should I store my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their soft and chewy texture. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between cookies if you stack them, to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze the Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their chewy goodness.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it’s often due to the dough being too warm. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking—it’s essential! If you find they still spread, try adding a bit more flour next time to achieve the right balance. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough, as too much aeration can lead to spreading.

Is it safe for pets or those with allergies to eat these cookies?
While these cookies are a festive treat for people, they aren’t suitable for pets, as chocolate is toxic to many animals, including dogs. Additionally, keep in mind common allergens in this recipe like eggs, dairy (butter), and gluten (flour). Always check with your guests for any dietary restrictions before serving.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance by rolling it into balls, coating them in powdered sugar, and freezing them. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a couple of hours and bake as directed for fresh Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!