Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – Soft, Fudgy & Irresistibly Festive
Few desserts capture attention quite like Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies. With their deep ruby-red color, snowy powdered sugar coating, and irresistibly soft centers, these cookies are a true showstopper. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of rich cocoa flavor, subtle vanilla sweetness, and that classic red velvet tang everyone loves. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, special occasions, or simply craving a bakery-style treat at home, this recipe delivers professional results with simple ingredients.
These cookies are loved for their dramatic crackled tops, chewy texture, and foolproof method. They look impressive, taste luxurious, and come together with minimal effort—making them one of the most searched-for and shared cookie recipes online.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies while keeping them soft and tender when measured correctly.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds depth and that signature red velvet chocolate note without overpowering sweetness.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise and creates the beautiful crinkle effect as they bake.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness for a more complex taste.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
- Vegetable Oil – Ensures a soft, fudgy texture that stays tender for days.
- Large Eggs – Bind ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s rich texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances all the other flavors.
- Red Food Coloring – Creates the iconic red velvet appearance that makes these cookies visually stunning.
- Powdered Sugar – Coats the cookies and forms the dramatic crackled exterior.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures consistent texture and flavor throughout the cookies. -
Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and vegetable oil. Beat until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring until the color is vibrant and uniform. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and tender. -
Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling is essential for easy handling and helps create the classic crinkle effect. -
Shape and Coat
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Generously coat each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring a thick, even layer. -
Bake to Perfection
Place dough balls on a lined baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers remain soft. -
Cool and Set
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set without drying out.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies recipe is a favorite because it delivers bakery-quality results at home. The cookies stay soft for days, the flavor is rich without being overly sweet, and the crackled appearance makes them perfect for gifting, parties, and holiday cookie trays. It’s a reliable, repeat-worthy recipe that never fails.
Pro Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and ensure bold cracks.
- Use gel food coloring for a deeper red color without altering texture.
- Roll twice in powdered sugar for extra dramatic crinkles.
- Do not overbake; slightly underbaked cookies stay fudgy and soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or a creamy latte. They also pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or can be sandwiched with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert. Perfect for Christmas platters, Valentine’s Day treats, or anytime you want a pop of color and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies prove that an impressive dessert doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and show-stopping results, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Soft, beautiful, and irresistibly delicious, these cookies are guaranteed to become a staple in your baking collection—and a top contender for the best red velvet cookie recipe online.