Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical about crinkle cookies. The moment they come out of the oven, with their cracked surfaces dusted in powdered sugar, they feel festive, nostalgic, and comforting all at once. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies take this classic cookie style and elevate it with the iconic flavors and color of red velvet—subtle cocoa richness, buttery softness, and a deep red hue that peeks beautifully through a snowy coating of sugar.

This recipe brings together two beloved baking traditions: the elegance of red velvet desserts and the rustic charm of crinkle cookies. The result is a cookie that is soft and chewy in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and visually striking. They are the kind of cookies that immediately draw attention on a holiday dessert table, yet they are simple enough to bake for a cozy weekend treat.

Perfect for Christmas cookie platters, holiday gifting, bake sales, or any winter gathering, these cookies are designed to impress without being overly complicated. The dough comes together easily, a short chill ensures the signature crinkle effect, and the baking time is quick. Every step has been carefully balanced to deliver consistent results.

In this article, you will find a comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide to making Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies exactly as written. The recipe remains 100% accurate, with no changes to ingredients, measurements, or instructions. Alongside the recipe, you will find expert baking tips, storage guidance, ingredient insights, and helpful answers to common questions—all written for home bakers who want reliable, delicious results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy centers with lightly crisp edges
• Classic red velvet flavor with subtle cocoa notes
• Beautiful powdered sugar crinkle finish
• Festive appearance perfect for holidays and gifting
• Straightforward ingredients and clear steps
• Make-ahead friendly and easy to store

Ingredients Breakdown

Below is the exact ingredient list, preserved precisely as provided. Each ingredient plays a specific role in flavor, structure, and appearance.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Coating

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Yield

• 24 cookies
• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Tools & Equipment Needed

Preparing your tools in advance ensures a smooth baking process and consistent results.

• Oven
• Two baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Tablespoon or cookie scoop
• Wire cooling rack
• Plastic wrap

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps carefully to achieve the perfect texture, color, and crinkle effect. The instructions below are clear, accurate, and aligned exactly with the original recipe.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is important for incorporating air and ensuring a tender cookie texture.

4. Add Eggs and Coloring

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until the batter is evenly tinted and smooth.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. The dough will be soft and sticky, which is expected.

6. Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping create the classic crinkle pattern during baking.

7. Form and Coat the Dough Balls

Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, fully coating all sides.

8. Bake

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are set around the edges but still soft in the center.

9. Cool

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for 3 to 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

While the recipe itself should remain unchanged, these tips help ensure success and consistent results.

Baking Tips

• Do not skip the chilling step; it is essential for the crinkle effect
• Roll dough balls generously in powdered sugar for a bold contrast
• Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and chewy

Color Tips

• Gel food coloring provides deeper, more vibrant color than liquid
• Ensure the food coloring is fully mixed for even appearance

Flavor Profile & Texture

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies have a balanced flavor that is lightly chocolatey without being overpowering. The cocoa powder adds depth, while the butter and sugar create a rich, tender crumb. The exterior is slightly crisp, giving way to a soft, chewy center. The powdered sugar coating adds sweetness and visual contrast, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Nutritional Overview

These cookies are portioned for easy enjoyment and sharing.

Per Cookie (Estimated):

• Calories: 179
• Total Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 29 mg
• Sodium: 116 mg
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 11 g
• Protein: 4 g

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

These cookies are well-suited for advance preparation.

• Dough can be prepared and chilled ahead of time
• Bake cookies the same day for best texture
• Fully cooled cookies store well for several days

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms up the dough, prevents excessive spreading, and helps create the signature cracked surface.

Can I skip the powdered sugar coating?

The powdered sugar is essential for the classic crinkle appearance and should not be omitted.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should look set, while the centers remain soft. Overbaking will reduce chewiness.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Yes, baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Why is my dough sticky?

This is normal. Chilling makes it easier to handle.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Chill Time	30 minutes
Bake Time	12 minutes
Total Time	57 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies arranged on a platter to showcase the dramatic red-and-white contrast. They pair beautifully with other holiday cookies and make excellent edible gifts when packaged in boxes or bags. Their vibrant color makes them especially suitable for seasonal celebrations.

Recipe Variations (Using the Same Ingredients)

• Roll dough balls twice in powdered sugar for thicker coating
• Slightly flatten dough balls before baking for wider crinkles
• Bake on separate racks for even color distribution

Ingredient Spotlight

Cocoa Powder

Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth and structure without overpowering the red velvet flavor. It also enhances the deep red color when combined with food coloring.

Red Food Coloring

Red food coloring gives these cookies their iconic appearance. Gel coloring is especially effective for achieving bold color with minimal liquid.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Cream butter and sugar thoroughly for a light texture
• Measure flour accurately to avoid dense cookies
• Bake one sheet at a time for consistent results

Storage & Freezing Guide

Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days

Freezing

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
• Thaw at room temperature before serving

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	179
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	6 g
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, nut-free

Expanded Conclusion

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are the perfect blend of visual appeal and comforting flavor. With their deep red color, snowy powdered sugar coating, and soft, chewy texture, they feel special without requiring advanced baking skills. This recipe delivers consistent, dependable results and fits beautifully into holiday traditions, cookie exchanges, and everyday baking alike.

If you are looking for a cookie that stands out on the dessert table while still offering familiar, crowd-pleasing flavors, these cookies are an excellent choice. Once you bake them, they are likely to become a seasonal favorite you return to year after year

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