Who can resist a delightful cookie with a vibrant twist?
If you haven’t tried Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, you’re missing out! With their deep crimson color and irresistible crinkle top, these cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes too. Easy to whip up and utterly satisfying, they blend the classic flavor of red velvet cake with the charm of a cookie. Trust me, once you get a whiff of them baking, you’ll understand why they’re so special.
Why make this recipe
First off, these cookies are a breeze to make! You don’t need to channel your inner pastry chef—just a few bowls, some mixing, and you’re good to go. Plus, who doesn’t love cookies that look like they belong in a bakery? They are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need a cookie break. 🍪
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- Powdered sugar for rolling
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in powdered sugar.
- Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until crinkled.
- Allow to cool before serving.

How to make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies (Overview)
Making these cookies is as simple as 1-2-3! Start by mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl while the wet ingredients come together in another. Then it’s just a matter of combining them, chilling the dough, and rolling those cute little balls in powdered sugar. Pro tip? Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps those crinkles form beautifully! 😍
How to serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk, and watch the smiles spread across everyone’s faces. Their soft, chewy texture combined with the sweetness of powdered sugar creates a delightful contrast. Want extra indulgence? Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Trust me; your taste buds will cheer!
How to store Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These cookies can hang out in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. Want to enjoy them later? Freeze them for up to three months! They taste awesome even after thawing. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up, and voila—freshly baked goodness!
Tips to make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the dough: Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for that perfect crinkle!
- Substitutions: If you’re short on butter, you can swap it out for coconut oil for a unique twist.
- Color intensity: Want that red to pop? Add a little more food coloring—but don’t go overboard!
- Baking sheets: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Less mess = more cookies! 😅
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding white chocolate chips or even chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture! Need it vegan? Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.What can I substitute for the red food coloring?
You can use beet juice for a natural alternative, but it may alter the consistency slightly.What’s the secret to the perfect crinkle?
Chilling the dough and rolling it generously in powdered sugar before baking makes all the difference for those delightful cracks!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
For Rolling
- as needed Powdered sugar For rolling the cookie dough balls
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Baking
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in powdered sugar.
- Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until crinkled.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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