Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – Soft & Chewy Delight

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a holiday favorite, soft, chewy, and beautifully red with snowy sugar tops that make them sparkle. Each bite is rich with cocoa, slightly tangy like classic red velvet, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. Perfect for Holidays cookie trays or cozy winter baking, these cookies are as stunning as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gorgeous red crinkle design that stands out on dessert tables
• Soft, fudgy, and lightly chocolatey flavor
• Easy to make ahead and freeze
• Perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings
• Quick prep with simple pantry ingredients

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring; mix until combined.
3. Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to handle.
5. Form cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Coat each ball generously in powdered sugar.
6. Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until crinkled and set around the edges.
7. Cool: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips & Variations

• Deeper color: Add more food coloring for a vibrant red hue.
• Extra chocolate flavor: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room Temperature: Keep cookies in a sealed container up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Make Ahead: You can refrigerate the dough up to 48 hours before baking.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Enjoy with hot cocoa or a glass of milk.
• Arrange on a festive platter with sugar cookies and chocolate truffles.
• Wrap in clear bags with ribbons for a sweet homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my crinkles not forming?

Make sure your dough is well-chilled and coated generously with powdered sugar.

Can I make them without red food coloring?

Yes, they’ll still taste delicious but lose their signature red velvet look.

Why add vinegar to red velvet cookies?

It enhances the red color and adds a subtle tang, balancing the cocoa flavor.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, beet powder or natural red gel coloring works beautifully.

Ready to Make It?

Soft, chewy, and perfectly crinkled, these Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies bring color and joy to every occasion. Whether for a cookie swap, holiday platter, or weekend treat, they’ll be the first to disappear.

You Might Also Like

• Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic, fudgy, and irresistible
• Peppermint Bark – Festive and candy
• Sugar Cookies– Buttery, soft, and perfect for decorating
• Gingerbread Cookies – Spiced and chewy holiday favorites

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