We’ve taken the beloved red velvet cake and transformed it into irresistible red velvet crinkle cookies that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. These stunning treats combine the classic tangy-sweet flavor of red velvet with the satisfying texture of soft crinkle cookies – creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
What makes these cookies absolutely magical is their gorgeous appearance. The vibrant red interior peeks through snowy white powdered sugar cracks, creating a beautiful contrast that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day celebration, holiday gathering, or simply craving something special, these cookies deliver both visual appeal and incredible taste.
We’ll show you exactly how to achieve that perfect chewy center and those signature crackled tops that make crinkle cookies so distinctive. Trust us – once you bite into these rich, chocolatey gems with their subtle cream cheese tang, you’ll understand why they’re quickly becoming everyone’s new favorite cookie.
Ingredients
These red velvet crinkle cookies require carefully measured ingredients to achieve their signature texture and vibrant color. We’ve organized the ingredients by their purpose to make your baking process smooth and efficient.
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk, room temperature
For Rolling and Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for first coating)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for final coating)
Equipment Needed
Creating these stunning red velvet crinkle cookies requires the right tools to achieve that perfect texture and signature crackled appearance. We’ve organized our essential equipment list to help you gather everything before starting the baking process.
Large Mixing Bowl serves as our foundation for combining all ingredients. This spacious vessel allows us to cream butter and sugars effectively while providing enough room for thorough mixing without spillage.
Electric Mixer or Wooden Spoon becomes crucial for achieving the proper dough consistency. We recommend using an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, though a sturdy wooden spoon works for those who prefer mixing by hand.
Measuring Cups and Spoons ensure accuracy in our ingredient ratios. Precise measurements make the difference between cookies that spread perfectly and those that lose their shape during baking.
Medium Cookie Scoop helps us portion uniform dough balls. This tool creates consistent cookie sizes that bake evenly and develop those coveted crinkle patterns simultaneously.
Baking Sheet or Cookie Pan provides the surface for our cookies to transform in the oven. We prefer using heavy-duty pans that distribute heat evenly and prevent hotspots that could cause uneven browning.
Parchment Paper lines our baking sheets to prevent sticking. This simple addition makes removal effortless and keeps our delicate crinkle patterns intact when transferring cookies to cooling racks.
Whisk blends our dry ingredients smoothly. Whisking flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together eliminates lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the dough.
Spatula scrapes bowl sides clean and folds ingredients gently. This flexible tool helps us incorporate the dry ingredients without overmixing, which could result in tough cookies rather than our desired tender texture.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through each step to create these stunning red velvet crinkle cookies with their signature cracked appearance.
Prep the Dry Ingredients
We start by combining all our dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Add 2¼ cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt together. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution and prevent any clumping that could affect our cookie texture. This flour mixture provides the essential structure while the cocoa powder delivers that classic red velvet chocolate undertone we’re looking for.
Make the Cookie Dough
In our large mixing bowl, we cream together ½ cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup light brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg until fully incorporated, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 1-2 teaspoons red food coloring for that vibrant color. Pour in 2 tablespoons buttermilk to add moisture and tenderness to our cookies. Gradually add our prepared dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing which can result in tough cookies.
Chill the Dough
Cover our cookie dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling serves multiple important purposes: it firms up the dough making it easier to handle, develops the flavors, and prevents excessive spreading during baking. Cold dough also helps create that thick, chewy texture and allows the characteristic crinkle pattern to form properly when the cookies bake.
Shape and Coat the Cookies
Using our medium cookie scoop, we portion the chilled dough into uniform balls. Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar, which helps the powdered sugar coating adhere better and creates a crisp outer layer. Next, coat each ball generously with powdered sugar, ensuring complete coverage for that beautiful white exterior that will crack during baking.
Bake the Cookies
Place our coated dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake at 350°F until the cookies are puffed and show those signature cracks, with the edges appearing set. Let the cookies cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain their soft centers and crispy edges.
Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Master the Double Sugar Coating Technique
We achieve the signature crinkled appearance by using a exact double coating method. Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar to create a foundation layer. Next coat generously in powdered sugar to ensure the distinctive white cracks form during baking. This technique prevents the powdered sugar from dissolving into the dough and creates those beautiful snow-crackled tops we all love.
Choose Your Fat Wisely
Oil produces superior results compared to butter for maintaining the powdered sugar coating. Since oil contains no water it prevents the sugar from becoming goopy during baking. We recommend vegetable oil for neutral flavor or brown butter if you want added depth. Brown butter works well because the water has evaporated during the browning process.
Perfect Your Timing and Temperature
Bake these cookies at 375°F for optimal results. Watch carefully as baking time ranges from 7 to 12 minutes depending on your desired texture. We look for edges that are set while centers remain slightly gooey. Overbaking destroys the soft fudgy center that makes these cookies special.
Decide on Chilling Strategy
Chilling dough for 2 hours enhances flavor development and helps cookies maintain their shape during baking. But we can skip chilling if you prefer cookies that spread more and have a chewier texture. Room temperature dough creates different results so choose based on your texture preference.
Keep It Simple
These cookies require no special equipment or complicated techniques. We can mix the entire recipe by hand or with basic kitchen tools making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. This simplicity means you can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes.
Monitor the Cooling Process
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This brief resting period helps them maintain their structure while ensuring the centers stay perfectly soft. Moving them too quickly can cause breakage or loss of that ideal texture contrast.
Storage Instructions
We need to store our red velvet crinkle cookies properly to maintain their signature texture and vibrant appearance. Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup that can make them soggy.
Room Temperature Storage
Place our fully cooled cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container for optimal freshness. When stacking becomes necessary, separate each layer with parchment or wax paper to prevent the cookies from sticking together.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | 3-5 days | Room temperature |
| Refrigerator | 1-2 weeks | Cold |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Frozen |
Our red velvet crinkle cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days at room temperature. The exact duration depends on our recipe’s ingredients and the humidity levels in our kitchen environment.
Extended Storage Options
We can refrigerate our cookies in an airtight container for up to one week, with some recipes allowing up to two weeks of freshness. Before serving refrigerated cookies, let them return to room temperature for the best taste and texture experience.
Freezing provides our longest storage option for these delicate treats. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about one hour until firm. Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Our frozen cookies maintain quality for up to two or three months.
Preparing Frozen Cookies
We should thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before serving. This timing ensures they regain their soft, chewy texture that makes red velvet crinkle cookies so irresistible.
Storing Unbaked Dough
Our cookie dough offers flexible preparation options for busy schedules. Refrigerate unbaked dough for up to one week or freeze it for up to two months. When ready to bake frozen dough balls, let them thaw for approximately 30 minutes before rolling in sugar and baking according to our recipe directions.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead makes these red velvet crinkle cookies perfect for busy schedules or special occasions. We recommend several strategic approaches to prepare these delicious treats in advance while maintaining their signature texture and vibrant appearance.
Freezing Cookie Dough
Wrap the prepared dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for future baking sessions. This method preserves the dough’s quality for up to two months. When ready to bake, allow the frozen dough to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before shaping into balls and proceeding with the sugar coating process.
Refrigerating Shaped Dough Balls
Store pre-shaped dough balls in the refrigerator for convenient baking throughout the week. Place the uncoated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. These can be refrigerated for up to one week. Roll the chilled dough balls in granulated sugar and powdered sugar just before baking to ensure the signature crinkled appearance develops properly.
Storing Baked Cookies
Keep finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft centers and vibrant color. Properly stored red velvet crinkle cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days. Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their powdered sugar coating.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 5 days | Airtight container |
| Refrigerated Dough | Up to 1 week | Covered baking sheet |
| Frozen Dough | Up to 2 months | Plastic wrapped |
These make-ahead strategies allow us to enjoy fresh red velvet crinkle cookies whenever the craving strikes while saving valuable time during busy periods.
Serving Suggestions
These stunning red velvet crinkle cookies deserve thoughtful presentation that highlights their beautiful crackled appearance and rich flavor profile. We recommend arranging them on elegant serving platters where their vibrant red centers can contrast beautifully against white dishware.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip transforms these cookies into an extraordinary dessert experience. We suggest serving the cookies alongside a bowl of smooth cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat that mirrors the classic red velvet cake combination. The tangy sweetness of the frosting complements the cookies’ subtle chocolate notes perfectly.
Holiday Entertaining becomes effortless with these eye-catching cookies as your centerpiece dessert. Their festive red color makes them natural choices for Christmas cookie exchanges and Valentine’s Day celebrations. We love displaying them on tiered stands mixed with other holiday treats for stunning dessert tables.
Gift Presentation elevates these cookies into memorable presents that recipients treasure. Beautiful wrapping in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons showcases their distinctive crackled tops. Cookie tins lined with parchment paper create elegant gift packages perfect for teachers, neighbors, or anyone deserving something special.
Beverage Pairings enhance the cookies’ rich flavors when chosen thoughtfully. Cold milk remains our top recommendation for balancing the sweet chocolate notes. Hot coffee or espresso creates sophisticated afternoon treats, while warm spiced cider during winter months adds seasonal warmth to the experience.
Party Favors become memorable when these cookies are individually wrapped in small bags with personalized labels. Wedding receptions, birthday parties, and baby showers benefit from these distinctive treats that guests can take home as edible keepsakes.
Conclusion
These red velvet crinkle cookies truly deliver on their promise of combining two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. We’ve shown you exactly how to achieve that perfect balance of chewy texture and stunning visual appeal that makes these cookies stand out at any gathering.
With our detailed instructions and proven tips you’re well-equipped to create bakery-quality cookies in your own kitchen. The make-ahead options and storage techniques we’ve shared ensure you can enjoy these beauties whenever the mood strikes.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays gifting to loved ones or simply treating yourself these red velvet crinkle cookies are guaranteed to become a cherished recipe in your collection. The combination of rich chocolate flavor vibrant color and that signature crackled appearance makes every bite a delightful experience worth sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes red velvet crinkle cookies different from regular crinkle cookies?
Red velvet crinkle cookies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the soft, chewy texture of traditional crinkle cookies. They feature a vibrant red interior with rich chocolatey taste and a hint of cream cheese flavor, while maintaining the signature white powdered sugar cracks on the surface that create their stunning visual appeal.
How long do I need to chill the cookie dough?
The cookie dough should be chilled for at least 2 hours before baking. This chilling time enhances both the flavor and texture of the cookies. However, you can skip chilling if you prefer a chewier texture, though the traditional recipe benefits from the resting period.
What’s the secret to achieving the signature crinkled appearance?
The key is using a double sugar coating technique. First, roll the chilled dough balls in granulated sugar, then coat them thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking. This creates the beautiful contrast between the vibrant red interior and the white cracked exterior that these cookies are known for.
How should I store red velvet crinkle cookies?
Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for 1-2 weeks or freeze for 2-3 months. Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their signature texture and appearance.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate unbaked dough for up to one week or freeze it for up to two months when tightly wrapped in plastic. Pre-shaped dough balls can be refrigerated for up to a week, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want them.
What equipment do I need to make these cookies?
Essential equipment includes a large mixing bowl, electric mixer or wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, medium cookie scoop, baking sheet, parchment paper, whisk, and spatula. Having the right tools ensures smooth preparation and consistent results for your cookies.
What are the best occasions to serve red velvet crinkle cookies?
These cookies are perfect for holiday entertaining, especially Christmas and Valentine’s Day due to their festive red color. They make excellent party favors when individually wrapped, beautiful gifts when presented in cookie tins, and elegant treats for special occasions when arranged on platters.
What beverages pair well with red velvet crinkle cookies?
Cold milk is a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors perfectly. Hot coffee enhances the chocolatey notes, while warm spiced cider creates a cozy combination. For an extra indulgent treat, serve the cookies with cream cheese frosting as a dip.
