Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies is simple and reliable, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The balance of cocoa and sweetness delivers comfort in each bite. Plus, they are practical enough for everyday enjoyment, elevating your snack or dessert game without demanding endless hours in the kitchen. You can rely on these cookies to bring joy, whether it’s a weekday treat or part of a festive gathering.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (structure)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (leavening)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (leavening)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (moisture)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (sweetness)
• 1 large egg (binding)
• 1 large egg yolk (richness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (flavor)
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (color)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (texture)

How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Step 1. In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and helps to remove any lumps. It also adds air to the mixture, which can make a difference in the texture of your cookies. Once this step is complete, set the bowl aside.

Step 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, cream the two ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. It’s important to incorporate enough air into the butter and sugar to achieve a nice texture in the cookies, so ensure there are no lumps of butter remaining.

Step 3. Next, add the large egg and large egg yolk to the creamed mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring that the eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture. After this, stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring. The mixture should become a vibrant red at this stage, so be sure to mix it well to evenly distribute the color.

Step 4. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. It’s best to do this in two or three batches to make it easier to mix. Carefully fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until no dry flour remains visible. This method helps to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5. Once the dough is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps solidify the fats in the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Be mindful not to skip this step, as it greatly affects the final texture.

Step 6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is chilling. This ensures that the cookies begin baking immediately once they are formed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with even baking. This step is essential for achieving the perfect crinkle effect on the cookies.

Step 7. After chilling, take small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Coat each ball generously in powdered sugar, making sure they are well covered, as this will create the signature crinkle appearance during baking. Gently place the sugar-covered dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for spreading.

Step 8. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to watch for the signature crinkles on top. The cookies should look set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center when ready. Avoid overbaking to ensure that they remain chewy.

Step 9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly while maintaining a chewy interior. After this short cooling period, carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. Proper cooling is essential to achieving the right texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. They make a delightful addition to a breakfast spread, pairing wonderfully with coffee or milk. Perfect for an afternoon snack, these cookies can also be part of family meals or dessert eager to impress guests. Leftovers (if any) can be easily stored for later enjoyment, allowing you to savor their wonderful flavors over time.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as melted butter can lead to flat cookies.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for controlling spreading during baking.
• Use good quality cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor in the cookies.
• Roll the cookie dough balls in powdered sugar just before baking for a lovely finish.
• For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not measuring flour correctly: If flour isn’t measured accurately, it can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for best results, and avoid packing flour into the measuring cup.
2. Skipping chilling the dough: Without chilling, the cookies may spread too much and lose their shape. Always allow the dough to refrigerate for the recommended time to maintain the desired texture.
3. Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
4. Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that isn’t preheated can lead to uneven baking. Make sure it reaches the right temperature before placing the cookies inside for consistent results.
5. Leaving cookies on the baking sheet too long: Leaving cookies on the hot pan for too long can lead to overcooking. Move them to a cooling rack within the recommended time to retain their chewy texture.
6. Using old leavening agents: Old baking powder or baking soda won’t work effectively, causing cookies to not rise properly. Check expiration dates before starting to ensure the best results.

Variations & Substitutions

You can easily switch things up with variations like adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for added texture. For a cream cheese twist, incorporate a cream cheese filling in the middle before baking for a delicious surprise. Additionally, consider adjusting the amount of food coloring for a subtle red hue or using different colors for holidays or celebrations.

Storage & Reheating

To store out in the open, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer to preserve freshness, store them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze these cookies for longer storage. To do this, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For reheating, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 300°F until just heated, to keep their soft texture intact.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows flavors to meld and can make for quicker baking when you need those cookies.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last in the fridge for about one to two weeks. Make sure they are completely cool before storing to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! The cookies can be frozen for up to three months. It’s best to freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a bag, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

What can I substitute for one ingredient?

If you need to substitute ingredients, you might use margarine instead of butter, or if you want a bit less sugar, consider reducing the granulated sugar slightly without drastically changing the overall recipe.

Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?

There are several potential reasons, such as not measuring correctly or overlooking the chilling time. Ensuring accurate measurements and following each step closely will help achieve the desired results.

Final Thoughts

Making Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies is a rewarding experience, bringing comfort and a burst of color to your kitchen. The process is straightforward and the results are deliciously satisfying. Enjoying these cookies means savoring their rich flavor and delightful texture, whether sharing with loved ones or indulging in a personal treat. Trust that with careful preparation, you’ll create a batch perfect for any occasion.