Red velvet crinkle cookies are a delightful treat that combines a rich, chocolatey flavor with a stunning red hue. They are soft on the inside with a light, crispy exterior and dusted with sweet powdered sugar. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to your loved ones.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These red velvet crinkle cookies are not only easy to make, but they are also simply delicious! With basic ingredients you likely have at home, they are a great option for both beginners and experienced bakers. The vibrant color makes them visually appealing, and their sweet taste is a hit with everyone. Plus, they bake up quickly, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Making these cookies is a straightforward process. You’ll start by mixing wet and dry ingredients separately. Then, combine them for a soft dough. Chilling the dough is key to getting the perfect crinkle effect after baking. This simple method helps even the newest cooks create delightful cookies that everyone will enjoy.

What You Need

To bake these lovely cookies, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
Powdered sugar for rolling

Step-by-Step

Preheat the 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 bowl, mix the sugar and vegetable oil until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring; mix until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until it’s all combined. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Roll the chilled dough into balls and coat them in powdered sugar.
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a glass of cold milk for classic comfort. They also pair nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For special occasions, arrange them on a festive plate to impress your guests.

How to Store Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.

Recipe Tips

Chill the dough well; this helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center.
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
If using food coloring, gel colors work best.

Variations & Swaps

For a cream cheese twist, add cream cheese frosting on top of the cookies.
Substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil for a different flavor.
Try using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and chill it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well, allowing you to enjoy them later.

How do I reheat them?
To reheat, place cookies in a warm oven for a few minutes, or enjoy them at room temperature.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can use melted butter or coconut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil.

What if my cookies don’t have a crinkle?
If they don’t crinkle, your dough may not have been chilled enough. Make sure to chill for at least 30 minutes.

Enjoy making these red velvet crinkle cookies! They are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and create sweet memories.