There’s something undeniably enchanting about the soft, chewy texture of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, especially when their rich cocoa flavor melts in your mouth. The moment you bring these vibrant red beauties out of the oven, dusted with a snowy coating of powdered sugar, you can’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are not just a feast for the eyes—they’re also surprisingly easy to whip up.
After a recent potluck where I found myself surrounded by a sea of traditional cookies, I decided it was time to introduce something a little different to the mix. That’s when these eye-catching cookies caught my attention. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a batch of irresistible treats that are sure to steal the spotlight. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making these show-stopping Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
Why are Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies so special?
Visual Appeal: The stunning red color, paired with a fluffy powdered sugar coating, makes these cookies a true showstopper.
Soft and Chewy: Each bite brings together a delightful texture that is both chewy and tender, reminiscent of the best brownies.
Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a spectacular treat that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Flavor: The rich cocoa complements the slight sweetness, making these cookies a flavor favorite at any gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy night in, these cookies will impress everyone and leave them asking for more!
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Ingredients
Craft these delightful treats with these essential ingredients!
For the Cookie Batter
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; you may substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor; always opt for unsweetened to avoid bitterness.
- Baking powder – Ensures a light rise; no direct substitutes are recommended for best results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors in the batter.
- Unsalted butter – Creates a tender crumb; alternative options include margarine or vegan butter for dairy-free cookies.
- Granulated sugar – Brings sweetness; feel free to use brown sugar if you prefer a deeper molasses tone.
- Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and add moisture; for a vegan alternative, use flax seeds (1 egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Vanilla extract – Enhances flavors; using pure vanilla will give the best taste.
- Red food coloring – Gives that signature vibrant hue; use gel food coloring as it is more concentrated—start with 1 teaspoon.
For the Coating
- Powdered sugar – Provides a beautiful snowy finish and extra sweetness; essential for that crinkle effect.
How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This creates a balanced base for your cookies.
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Cream Wet Ingredients: In a larger bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aeration will keep your cookies tender!
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Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully combined for that vibrant color.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently folding until just combined; be cautious not to over-mix for the perfect chewy texture.
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Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to firm up the dough and reduce cookie spreading during baking.
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Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into even balls and roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated, creating that signature snowy look.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges set while centers remain soft and puffy.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them firm up while still retaining softness.
Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
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Chill Time Matters: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes prevents excessive spreading, allowing your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies to maintain their signature crinkle shape.
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Monitor Baking: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; they should look set at the edges but still soft in the center for that chewy texture, usually around 10-12 minutes.
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Powdered Sugar Perfection: Roll the cookie dough balls in powdered sugar right before baking for the best cracked appearance. If you wait too long, the sugar may absorb moisture and lose its snow-like appearance.
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Use the Right Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring, as it’s more concentrated than liquid varieties; start with a small amount (1 teaspoon) to achieve a vibrant red without overly altering the dough’s consistency.
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Consider Add-Ins: For added flavor, think about mixing in white chocolate chips or a hint of cinnamon; these variations can elevate your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies in delightful ways!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps and chilling it in the refrigerator. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; simply roll them in powdered sugar just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the cookies from frozen for an additional minute or two to ensure they come out just as delicious as fresh.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: To prolong freshness, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week; ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer and then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment between layers, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and gently reheat in a microwave or oven for a few seconds to restore softness.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Indulge in a delightful treat that not only pleases the eyes but also satisfies your sweet cravings.
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Cold Milk: The ultimate pairing! A glass of cold milk highlights the rich cocoa flavor and balances the cookie’s sweetness beautifully.
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Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of hot cocoa, enhancing the velvety chocolate experience of these cookies in a dreamy combination.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent experience; the contrast in temperature and texture will wow your taste buds.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: Elevate your treat by serving these cookies with a side of rich chocolate ganache for dipping, adding even more chocolatey goodness to each bite.
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Coconut Macaroons: Pairing these cookies with chewy coconut macaroons creates a delightful contrast of flavors, perfect for cookie platters at celebrations.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee complements the rich cocoa notes in the cookies, making them an excellent afternoon or after-dinner treat.
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Fruit Tart: The fresh tanginess of a fruit tart balances the sweetness of the crinkle cookies, offering a refreshing finish to your dessert spread.
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Red Wine: For an adult twist, a glass of fruity red wine goes surprisingly well, enhancing the deep cocoa flavors and adding sophistication to your cookie experience.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a deliciously dairy-free treat. The richness remains while keeping it plant-based!
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Add White Chocolate Chips: Toss in a handful of white chocolate chips to elevate sweetness and creamy texture. These little bursts of chocolate will make every bite a dream!
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Spicy Twist: Swap out some cocoa powder for cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor that complements the red velvet beautifully. It adds an unexpected kick, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and a nutty crunch in every bite. This variation brings complexity and a lovely heartiness that enhances the cookie experience.
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Almond Joy: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist. This subtle change will give your cookies an enjoyable hint of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the red velvet.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical hint. This variation will create a chewy texture and a surprising depth of flavor that goes quite well with the cocoa.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a unique heat element. This unexpected spicy kick is not only bold but also makes for interesting flavor profiles!
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Different Color: Try using a different food coloring, like blue or pink, for a playful twist on the classic cookie while keeping that rich chocolate flavor alive. Play with colors for any festive occasion!
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting your butter, opt for unsalted to control the salt level in your cookies. For eggs, try to use large, fresh eggs to ensure moisture and binding. As for the cocoa powder, unsweetened is a must for that rich flavor, while avoiding Dutch-processed helps keep the vibrant red color intact!
What’s the best way to store finished Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
Very good question! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, popping them in the fridge will extend their life to around one week. Just remember to keep them well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies? If so, how?
Definitely! You can freeze your baked cookies to enjoy later. Lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to ensure they don’t stick together. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months! To serve, let them thaw at room temperature and then warm them up in the oven for a few seconds for that delectable softness.
What common troubleshooting tips should I know for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
If your cookies spread too much while baking, it could be due to dough not being chilled adequately. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure this unique crinkle effect. If you find they didn’t crinkle as expected, ensure you rolled them in powdered sugar right before baking—waiting too long can cause the sugar to absorb moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making these cookies?
Yes, keep in mind that the Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies contain gluten and eggs. If you have gluten sensitivities, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but this may alter the texture slightly. For a vegan option, substitute eggs with a mix of ground flaxseed (1 egg = 1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
Can I use different types of food coloring?
Certainly! While gel food coloring is ideal due to its richness, you can opt for liquid food coloring if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that it might not yield the same vibrant red, so you may need to use a bit more to achieve the desired color.
Decadent Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies That Wow Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a larger bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding until just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.