A Cookie So Good, You’ll Want to Share… or Not!
Ever taken a bite of a cookie that felt like a warm hug? Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are just that, bursting with rich cocoa flavor and that eye-catching red hue. These beauties are not only delicious but also super simple to make, with their signature crinkled tops that look as lovely as they taste. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering!
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you whip up a batch of these cookies? For starters, they’re an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, who doesn’t love cookies that showcase their festive spirit?
And let’s be real, kids to adults will adore these sweet bites! You’ll get all the thumbs up and maybe a few dance moves in the kitchen. 🍪💃
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
Directions
Here’s how to make these indulgent cookies in just a few simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, then roll in powdered sugar until well coated.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges look set and the tops are crinkled.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies (Overview)
Making these cookies is as easy as pie, er, cookie! You’ll start by mixing your dry ingredients to set the foundation. Then, cream together your sugars and butter before bringing it all together with some delicious red accents. Pro tip: Don’t skip the chilling time—this step helps create those gorgeous crinkles we love! After baking, let them rest a bit before transferring so they don’t fall apart.
How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These cookies are perfect on their own, but why not take it up a notch? Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Picture it: vibrant red, rich chocolatey goodness, and creamy, cold ice cream swirling together in blissful harmony. Honestly, they smell like a dream come true too!
How to Store Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Want to keep them longer? They freeze beautifully! Just place them in a zip-top bag and pop them in the freezer. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temp—if you can hold off, that is. 😏
Tips to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the dough: This helps the cookies keep their shape and ensures the crinkles form properly.
- Use gel food coloring for a deeper red hue; it won’t affect the dough’s consistency.
- Try substituting half the butter with applesauce for a slightly healthier twist without losing moisture.
- Make them mini! Smaller cookie bites mean more people can enjoy them, and honestly, who doesn’t want a cookie buffet?
Variation
Feel like experimenting? Switch things up by adding white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in each bite. Or, if you want to keep things vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. The options are endless!
FAQs
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
Try reducing the sugar quantities or using dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
What are some good toppings?
You can sprinkle some crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or drizzle with white chocolate for an extra touch of flair.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring Use gel for a deeper hue.
Coating
- 1 cup powdered sugar For rolling the cookie dough balls.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Baking
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, then roll in powdered sugar until well coated.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges look set and the tops are crinkled.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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