Let’s talk about cookies that are so beautiful, they look like you’ve picked them up from a fancy bakery. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful mix of that classic red velvet flavor we all know and love, paired with a cookie dough that’s rolled in sugar and baked into stunning crinkles. What’s not to love about these soft, chocolatey bites?
If you’re planning a holiday cookie plate or simply craving something decadent and fun, these cookies are calling your name. They’re rich, deeply flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Striking Appearance: The dramatic red color with powdered sugar crinkles makes these cookies a showstopper.
- Soft & Chewy: Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to a perfectly balanced dough.
- Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy here—just pantry staples and a little food coloring magic.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies hold well and are a hit on any dessert table!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie dough. If you’re looking to make these gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds that subtle chocolate flavor that makes red velvet shine.
- Red Food Coloring: The star player! Gel coloring works best for a vibrant red.
- Butter: Unsalted butter keeps the flavor buttery yet clean.
- Granulated & Powdered Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough while powdered sugar creates that gorgeous crinkle effect.
- Eggs: These bind everything together and lend a soft texture.
- Leavening Agents: Baking powder for a little rise and cream of tartar for that perfect crackle.
Pro Tips:
- For the best color, gel food coloring is your best friend—less liquid means a more vibrant red without changing the dough consistency.
- If you can, chill the dough for at least 1 hour; cold dough makes the cookies puff beautifully and hold their crinkle shape.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring. Adjust the intensity of the color based on your preference—but remember, red velvet is meant to be bold!
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overwork the dough. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough, roll them first in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar.
Step 6: Place the cookies on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the tops are cracked and the cookies are just set.
Step 7: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. These are perfect with a glass of milk or a cozy cup of coffee!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should still appear soft in the center when you pull them out. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- For a Deeper Flavor: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cocoa powder—it won’t taste like coffee but will enhance the chocolate notes.
- Batch Prep: This dough freezes well! Roll the dough into balls and freeze before rolling in sugar. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for double the chocolate goodness.
- Seasonal Swap: Use green food coloring around the holidays for a fun Grinch-themed cookie!
- Serving Idea: Serve these cookies alongside a light cream cheese frosting dip to accentuate the red velvet vibe.
FAQs
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw slightly before scooping and rolling.
- How do I store the baked cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Why aren’t my cookies crinkling? Make sure your dough is properly chilled and that you’re rolling it generously in powdered sugar before baking.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ cooling time)
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Difficulty: Easy
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and food coloring.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in granulated sugar, then powdered sugar.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool before serving. Enjoy!
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a festive way to sweeten any occasion. Don’t forget to share your creations with me—tag #TheKitchensAid so I can see your gorgeous batches!
