A delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie is perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual afternoon treats. These cookies are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red hue and crackled tops, but they also boast a rich cocoa flavor balanced with a hint of vanilla. Their soft texture and sweet taste make them irresistible, ensuring they will be a hit at any event!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cookies
- How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Step 6: Chill the Dough
- Step 7: Shape the Cookies
- Step 8: Bake the Cookies
- Step 9: Cool Down
- How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- With a Glass of Milk
- As a Dessert Platter
- Warmed with Ice Cream
- Gift Wrapped
- With Coffee or Tea
- As Party Favors
- How to Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Reheating Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes red velvet crinkle cookie different from regular cookies?
- Can I customize my red velvet crinkle cookie?
- How long do red velvet crinkle cookies last?
- Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up without hassle.
- Visually Appealing: The striking red color and crackled surface make these cookies a standout dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas or a birthday party, these cookies fit right in.
- Deliciously Decadent: The combination of cocoa and vanilla creates a rich, satisfying flavor that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different food coloring or add-ins like chocolate chips.
Tools and Preparation
To successfully create your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes for an easier and more enjoyable baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Ice cream scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve the perfect lightness in your cookie dough by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugar.
- Parchment paper: Using this prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, allowing for easy removal after baking.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
This creates your dry mixture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Expect the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps make it easier to handle while ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop chilled dough into 1-inch balls using an ice cream scoop. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar to coat completely. Place them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes until they are set but still soft in the center. You’ll know they’re ready when they have that distinctive crackled top!
Step 9: Cool Down
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
These delightful red velvet crinkle cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions that elevate their charm.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing! The rich flavors of the cookie complement the creaminess of milk perfectly.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a festive platter alongside other treats like brownies and mini cupcakes for an impressive dessert spread.
Warmed with Ice Cream
- Heat the cookies slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a warm, gooey treat.
Gift Wrapped
- Package several cookies in a decorative box or bag as a sweet gift for friends or family during holidays or special occasions.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The combination makes for an indulgent afternoon snack.
As Party Favors
- Place individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for adorable party favors at weddings or birthdays.
How to Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
To ensure your red velvet crinkle cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to help maintain its shape and enhance the crinkle effect.
- Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder to ensure rich flavor. This can make a significant difference in taste.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to wet. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Roll Generously in Powdered Sugar: Ensure each cookie ball is well-coated in powdered sugar before baking. This helps achieve that beautiful crackled top.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake just until set; overbaking will result in dry cookies. They should be soft in the center when pulled from the oven.
- Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, and enjoy within five days!

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
While red velvet crinkle cookies are delightful on their own, certain side dishes can enhance their enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of this classic frosting pairs wonderfully with these cookies, adding extra sweetness and creaminess.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Serve warm chocolate sauce alongside for dipping, creating an indulgent experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet cookie, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful texture and flavor when served alongside these treats.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that complements their rich flavor profile.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches—just add your favorite ice cream flavor between them for a fun twist!
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can lighten up the overall dessert experience and bring some freshness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making red velvet crinkle cookies, avoiding common mistakes can lead to better results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using warm ingredients: Always ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Warm ingredients can alter the texture of your cookies.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial! It helps maintain the cookie’s shape and enhances the crinkle effect.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scoop and level your flour for accuracy. Too much flour can make cookies dry and dense.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be soft in the center; overbaking will make them hard.
- Neglecting to roll in powdered sugar: Generously coating the dough balls in powdered sugar gives that signature crinkle look. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep cookies at room temperature to maintain their texture.
Freezing Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it to warm through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes red velvet crinkle cookie different from regular cookies?
Red velvet crinkle cookies have a unique flavor profile due to cocoa powder and red food coloring, giving them a rich taste and vibrant look.
Can I customize my red velvet crinkle cookie?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even white chocolate drizzle to enhance flavors.
How long do red velvet crinkle cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature.
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can use cake flour, it may change the texture slightly. All-purpose flour yields the best results.
Final Thoughts
These red velvet crinkle cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously rich and soft. Their versatility allows you to customize them for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself. Give this recipe a try and enjoy creating these delightful cookies!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion. These cookies stand out with their vibrant red color and beautifully crackled tops, making them a visual feast. Their rich cocoa flavor, enhanced by a hint of vanilla, creates a soft and sweet experience that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or enjoying a casual afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined; expect soft dough.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Scoop chilled dough into balls using an ice cream scoop and roll in powdered sugar before placing on prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until set but still soft in the center; they'll have that signature crackled top! Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg