Easy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking to bake a delightful batch of cookies that are both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty, this easy red velvet crinkle cookies recipe will quickly become your go-to. These cookies offer a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and a unique red velvet twist, ensuring a truly decadent treat.
Red velvet crinkle cookies have become a cherished holiday tradition in my family. Growing up, my grandmother would always bake them for special occasions, and their vibrant color never failed to amaze me. One winter, we accidentally doubled the cocoa, creating an even richer batch. Ever since, it has been our little family tweak to this classic recipe, reminding me of cozy winter nights and joyful family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity, even for novice bakers, providing you with a delightful cookie that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The vivid red color makes it perfect for festive occasions, while the mild chocolate and creamy texture offer a satisfying taste that everyone will love. The best part is these cookies require minimal preparation time, making them ideal for quick dessert needs.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredients for these cookies are quite straightforward, though finding the perfect red food coloring can make all the difference in achieving that signature vibrant hue. When buying cocoa powder, opt for a high-quality brand to enhance the richness of the cookies. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a mix of milk and lemon juice works well as a substitute.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
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Step 4
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 5
Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in confectioners’ sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies have developed crinkles and are set around the edges.
Storage Options
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Allow them to thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in an oven for a freshly baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Experiment by adding white chocolate chips or nuts to introduce new flavors and textures. If you prefer a non-dairy option, use almond milk with apple cider vinegar instead of buttermilk.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie swaps, festive parties, or as a sweet after-dinner treat. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of cocoa for a classic combination that rounds out the indulgent experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the dough before baking? Yes, you can freeze the dough balls before coating them in powdered sugar. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly, roll in sugar, and bake as directed.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? If you’re finding the cookies spread too thin, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the butter firm up again, reducing spread during baking.
What type of red food coloring should I use? For the most vibrant color, gel or paste food coloring works best as it offers intense coloring without altering the dough’s consistency. Liquid food coloring is a less concentrated alternative.
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Easy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and melted butter until well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Mix in the red food coloring until the color is evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar until coated. Place on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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