Red velvet crinkle cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, combining the rich flavors of cocoa with a striking red color. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat with your family. I first stumbled upon this recipe during the holiday season, and it’s now become a staple for festive gatherings. The soft, chewy texture paired with a sugary crust makes these cookies utterly irresistible and visually stunning.
What makes this recipe special
You’ll love making red velvet crinkle cookies for their ease and vibrant appearance. They’re perfect for baking enthusiasts of all skill levels and offer a unique, flavorful experience that sets them apart from ordinary cookies. Quick to whip up and budget-friendly, these cookies are ideal for weeknight baking or holiday parties.
“These cookies are a scrumptious blend of cocoa and fun that everyone loves! I made them for a Christmas party, and they disappeared in record time!”
Preparing Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Now, let’s break down the steps involved in creating these beautifully crinkled delights. The process is straightforward and will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: sugar, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop and roll the dough into balls, coating them in powdered sugar.
- Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.
What you’ll need
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for red velvet crinkle cookies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- Powdered sugar for rolling
Feel free to substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste. You can also adjust the amount of red food coloring to achieve your desired shade!
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring until fully blended.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, blending until just combined.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Scoop out the dough and roll into balls; then, coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the balls on the baking sheet with enough space between them.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm.
- Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve these impressive cookies, consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more festive touch, plate them alongside red and green sprinkles or arrange them in a beautiful tin as a gift. You could even serve them at your next gathering for a sweet surprise that will surely impress your guests.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any cookies left after your celebration (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, and let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps enhance the flavors and the texture of the cookies.
- Vary your sugar coating by mixing in some colored sugar for a fun twist, especially during holidays.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes; this ensures even baking and beautiful crinkles!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You could add white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise or swap the red food coloring for green to create mint-flavored cookies. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Common questions
- How long do these cookies take to prepare? Typically, you’ll need around 15-20 minutes for prep and about 12 minutes for baking, plus chilling time.
- Can I use a different type of food coloring? Yes, you can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red or even try another color for fun variations.
- What’s the best way to store baked cookies? Always keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor.
Red velvet crinkle cookies not only taste fantastic but also add a touch of elegance to your dessert table. Whether baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies will surely bring smiles and satisfaction with every bite!

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: sugar, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop and roll the dough into balls, coating them in powdered sugar.
- Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.