Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these red velvet crinkle cookies! They’re not just any cookie; they’re a strikingly beautiful treat with that deep red hue and a soft, chewy texture that’ll make your heart skip a beat. The rich cocoa flavor paired with just the right amount of sweetness, dusted with powdered sugar for that classic crinkle effect, means you’ll be reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, once you try this red velvet crinkle cookies recipe, you’ll want to whip them up for every occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy nights in. They’re a delight to make and an absolute joy to eat. Let’s dive into how to create these gorgeous cookies that will impress everyone around you!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most delicious red velvet crinkle cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – sifted to ensure lightness and avoid clumps.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for that rich chocolate flavor, don’t skimp on quality!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – this will give your cookies the lift they need.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – paired with the baking powder, it helps achieve that perfect texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – let it sit out for a bit to reach room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – adds the sweetness that balances the cocoa.
- 1 large egg – binds everything together and contributes to the cookie’s moistness.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring – this is where the magic happens! Adjust to your desired red hue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for that lovely aromatic touch.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting – gives those gorgeous crinkles their signature look.
How to Prepare the Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delightful red velvet crinkle cookies! Follow these steps closely, and I promise you’ll end up with soft, chewy cookies that look as good as they taste.
Prepping the Dough
First things first, we need to mix our dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This ensures everything is evenly combined and helps avoid clumps. Now, in a separate large bowl, cream together the softened 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial! It usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want to incorporate as much air as possible; this gives your cookies that nice, tender texture. Next, add in the 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix here; you want a smooth, cohesive dough!
Chilling and Shaping the Cookies
Now comes the magic part—chilling the dough! Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential; it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and contributes to that chewy texture we all love. Once chilled, take out the dough and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. The warmth from your hands will help form them nicely. Now, here’s the fun part: dredge each ball in powdered sugar until they’re completely coated. This not only adds sweetness but also creates those beautiful crinkles as they bake!
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps prevent sticking. Place your sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake these beauties for 10-12 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the centers remain soft—this is key! If you overbake them, they’ll lose that wonderful chewy texture. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up just the right amount while still being soft in the center. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen; it’s pure bliss!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying red velvet crinkle cookies, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s an estimate to give you a general idea:
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
These cookies are a delightful treat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet! Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them solo, knowing the nutritional content can help you enjoy every bite even more!
Tips for Success
To make your red velvet crinkle cookies truly shine, here are some of my top tips! First, ensure your butter is at room temperature—this helps create that fluffy texture when creamed with sugar. If you want an extra depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder; it intensifies the cocoa without making the cookies taste like coffee. For a delightful twist, consider folding in some white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Finally, keep an eye on the baking time—every oven is different, and you want those edges just set, with the centers still a touch soft for that perfect chewy bite. Happy baking!
Variations of the Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your red velvet crinkle cookies! One of my favorite variations is adding white chocolate chips—just fold in about 1/2 cup for a delightful sweetness that complements the cocoa beautifully. Another option is to create a luscious cream cheese filling. Simply whip together some cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla, then sandwich it between two cookies for a decadent treat! You can also play with the cocoa ratio; if you want a more intense chocolate flavor, try increasing the cocoa powder to 1/3 cup. For a seasonal twist, consider adding a dash of peppermint extract or even some crushed candy canes during the holiday season. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity flow!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your red velvet crinkle cookies, presentation can elevate the experience to a whole new level! Try stacking a few of these gorgeous cookies on a beautiful cake stand for a stunning centerpiece at your next gathering. For an extra touch, consider dusting them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving, enhancing that crinkled effect. Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee—trust me, the rich cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with both!
If you’re feeling fancy, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert plate. You could even drizzle a bit of chocolate or cream cheese icing on top for an indulgent finishing touch. Whatever you choose, these red velvet crinkle cookies will shine as the star of the dessert table!
FAQ Section
Can I freeze the red velvet crinkle cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a bit.
How should I store the cookies?
To keep your red velvet crinkle cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for about a week, but trust me, they’ll probably be gone long before that!
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can! A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Your cookies will still be deliciously chewy!
What can I use instead of red food coloring?
If you’re looking for a natural alternative, consider using beet juice or powdered beetroot. It gives a lovely red hue without any artificial coloring. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
This can happen if the dough isn’t chilled long enough. Remember, chilling the dough helps maintain the cookie shape while baking. Also, make sure your butter isn’t too soft—room temperature is ideal for this recipe.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Joy
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Red velvet crinkle cookies are soft, chewy cookies with a rich cocoa flavor and a striking red color, dusted with powdered sugar for a classic crinkle effect.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Dredge each ball in powdered sugar to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider incorporating white chocolate chips or nuts.
- Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve your desired shade of red.
- For a cream cheese filling, make a simple frosting and sandwich between two cookies.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: red velvet crinkle cookies recipe
