Name: Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are soft, fudgy, and strikingly beautiful with their deep red centers and powdered sugar-coated cracks. I love making them around the holidays or for special occasions when I want something a little different from the usual chocolate chip. They’re festive, rich in flavor, and incredibly easy to whip up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies give me the best of both worlds: the classic cocoa taste of red velvet and the chewy, brownie-like texture I crave in a cookie. The crinkle effect happens naturally while they bake, creating that gorgeous contrast of white and red. They look impressive but come together with simple pantry ingredients, which makes them a regular in my baking rotation. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Eggs
Red food coloring
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Directions

I start by whisking together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
In a separate large bowl, I mix the granulated sugar and oil until well combined. I then add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms.
I cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so it firms up—this helps the cookies hold their shape and get that signature crinkle.
Once chilled, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and coat each ball generously in powdered sugar.
I place the balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
I bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies puff up and the cracks appear. They should still be slightly soft in the center when I take them out.
I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes around 15 minutes to prep the dough, 2 hours to chill, and 10–12 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, the total time is about 2.5 hours.

Variations

I sometimes add white chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for extra richness.
A touch of cream cheese extract gives them more of a classic red velvet cake flavor.
For a fun twist, I roll the cookies in colored sanding sugar instead of powdered sugar.
I’ve made mini versions for cookie trays or parties—just shorten the baking time a bit.
I occasionally sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They stay soft and chewy. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I thaw them at room temperature—no reheating needed. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

FAQs

Can I skip chilling the dough?

I wouldn’t. Chilling is key for getting the crinkle effect and keeping the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

What kind of food coloring should I use?

I usually use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without adding too much liquid, but liquid food coloring works too—just adjust the amount as needed.

Can I make these without cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder gives red velvet its signature flavor. Without it, the cookies won’t have that classic taste.

Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?

If the dough was too warm or not coated heavily enough in powdered sugar, the crinkle effect may not appear as clearly. I make sure the dough is chilled and the sugar coating is thick.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it chilled until I’m ready to bake. It makes things even easier.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a stunning and delicious treat that always catches attention. I love their bold color, crackled tops, and soft, chocolatey centers. Whether I’m baking for the holidays or just want something a little special, these cookies never fail to impress and satisfy.