Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Irresistible

If you love red velvet cake and chewy cookies, this Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie Recipe is perfect for you! These cookies have a rich cocoa flavor, soft interior, and beautiful crinkled powdered sugar coating that makes them look as good as they taste.

They’re easy to make, require no chilling, and are perfect for any occasion—from Valentine’s Day to holiday cookie platters or just an indulgent treat for yourself. Their vibrant red color and delightful texture make them a stunning addition to any dessert table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Soft and Chewy Texture – Slightly crisp edges with a gooey center.
✔ Beautiful Crinkle Effect – The powdered sugar creates a gorgeous contrast against the red dough.
✔ Quick and Easy – No need to chill the dough—just mix, roll, and bake!
✔ Rich Red Velvet Flavor – A hint of cocoa and vanilla gives that classic red velvet taste.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, gifts, or just because!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for coating)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients.
✔ Electric Mixer – Helps cream butter and sugar smoothly.
✔ Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise ingredient portions.
✔ Baking Sheets – To bake the cookies evenly.
✔ Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
✔ Wire Cooling Rack – Allows cookies to cool properly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

1. Place the powdered sugar in a small bowl.
2. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
3. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar, ensuring a thick, even coating.
4. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops have a crackled appearance. The centers may look slightly underdone but will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack. Serve and enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

✔ Use Gel Food Coloring – It provides a richer red color without altering the dough consistency.
✔ Coat Generously in Powdered Sugar – A thick coating creates the best crinkle effect.
✔ Don’t Overbake – The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
✔ Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
✔ Mix Until Just Combined – Overmixing can make the cookies dense.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make It Extra Chocolatey – Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Dairy-Free Version – Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
Extra Flavor – Add ½ teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Storing Baked Cookies

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• To keep them extra soft, place a slice of bread in the container (it prevents cookies from drying out).

Freezing Cookie Dough

• Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, roll frozen dough balls in powdered sugar and bake as directed (add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time).

Freezing Baked Cookies

• Place baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling and baking.

Why didn’t my cookies crinkle properly?

Make sure to coat the dough balls heavily in powdered sugar and avoid overmixing the dough. If the dough is too warm, chill it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, but the color may not be as vibrant. Try using beetroot powder or natural red food dyes.

Can I make these cookies without cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder is essential for the red velvet flavor, but you can reduce it to 2 tablespoons for a milder chocolate taste.

What’s the best way to get uniform-sized cookies?

Use a cookie scoop to measure out even portions of dough. This ensures they bake evenly and look professional.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a perfect mix of soft, chewy, and chocolatey goodness wrapped in a beautiful, crackled powdered sugar coating. Whether you’re making them for a holiday treat, a Valentine’s Day surprise, or simply because you love red velvet, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit.

Try baking a batch today and enjoy delicious, bakery-style cookies right at home. Don’t forget to share them with friends and family—they’ll love them just as much as you do!

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