If you have a soft spot for cookies that strike the perfect balance between classic charm and bold flavor, then you are in for a treat with this Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe. Picture a cookie that is tender and rich, with a beautiful deep red color contrasted by delicate white crinkles that make each bite as visually delightful as it is tasty. These cookies bring the beloved taste of red velvet cake into a fun, hand-held form – perfect for sharing with friends, holiday gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something special. The combination of cocoa, red food coloring, and powdered sugar coating create a stunning effect that’s as irresistible as it smells.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these cookies lies in their simple yet essential ingredients, each selected to contribute the right texture, flavor, and that iconic red hue. From rich cocoa powder to velvety butter, you’ll be amazed how these staples come together for something extraordinary.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure, so your cookies have that perfect chewiness without being cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds the subtle chocolate note that’s critical to red velvet flavor.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure your cookies rise just right with a light texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Gives richness and tenderness—make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that slight crisp on the outside.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture.
- Milk: Adds extra moisture to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- Red food coloring: The star ingredient for that classic vibrant red color that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar: Used for coating to create the signature crinkle effect and add a sweet touch.
How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together your all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures your leavening agents and flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough, so every cookie bakes up perfectly consistent.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This aerates your fat and sugar, making the cookies tender and giving the right texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Milk, Vanilla, and Food Coloring
Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, then add milk, vanilla, and red food coloring. This is where the dough takes on life with that gorgeous red hue you’re after. Make sure your mixture is smooth and the color is vibrant.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing here; you want to preserve a light, tender crumb for your cookies.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap your dough and chill it for at least an hour. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring your cookies keep their shape during baking.
Step 6: Form and Coat the Cookies
Preheat your oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll each one in powdered sugar until generously coated. This coating will crack beautifully as the cookies bake, creating the iconic crinkle appearance.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for around 12-15 minutes. They should be set on the edges but still soft in the middle – they will firm up as they cool, remaining delightfully chewy inside with a slightly crisp outside.
How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To add a festive touch, consider sprinkling a few extra powdered sugar crystals right after baking or adding a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant finish. The contrast of white on red is not only stunning but also boosts the cookie’s sweet appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. The creamy beverages complement the rich cocoa and balanced sweetness of the red velvet perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, stack these Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe wonders in clear jars tied with a red ribbon or arrange them on a platter adorned with fresh berries for a vibrant display. You can even sandwich a little cream cheese frosting between two cookies to create mini red velvet cookie sandwiches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewiest for up to five days, making them a great make-ahead snack or dessert.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To warm your cookies and bring back that freshly baked softness, pop them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without red food coloring?
While red food coloring gives the signature look of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe, you can omit it if you prefer. The cookies will have a more subtle brown color from the cocoa but will still taste delicious.
What type of cocoa powder is best for this recipe?
Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for the best flavor and color. Dutch-processed cocoa will change the acidity and alter the taste slightly, but you can use it if needed.
How can I make the cookies more moist?
Adding the tablespoon of milk as described in the recipe helps keep the cookies moist. Do not skip chilling the dough, as this also aids in moisture retention during baking.
Why do my cookies spread too much?
If your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe dough is too warm or the butter too soft, the cookies may spread more than desired. Chill the dough well and consider reducing butter slightly if spreading is a consistent problem.
Can I use cream cheese in these cookies?
Traditional Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe dough does not include cream cheese, but you can experiment with adding some for tanginess or make cream cheese frosting sandwiches for a delightful variation.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe is truly a joy to bake and even more satisfying to eat. The striking red color, soft texture, and melt-in-your-mouth cocoa flavor make these cookies an instant favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and lots of happy crumbs. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
