Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies {Crinkles} are a delightful treat that brings a little joy to your baking routine. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar. These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also a feast for the eyes with their vibrant red hue. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just fancy something sweet, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Let’s chat about how easy and rewarding it is to whip up these delightful cookies. The process is as satisfying as the end result. Plus, kids and adults alike will be captivated by the crinkled tops and striking color. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on this delicious journey together!
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to these delicious Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies {Crinkles} lies in the perfect balance of ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving that ideal cookie texture; buttery and slightly chewy with a hint of cocoa flavor.
The use of red gel coloring instantly brightens the cookies, keeping in line with the classic vibrant red velvet look. This ensures that they don’t just taste good but also look stunning on any dessert table. By including a chilling step, the cookies maintain their shape and achieve the beautiful crinkle effect as they bake.
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
First off, the combination of textures is simply delightful. You experience a crisp outside followed by a soft, chewy interior. This makes each bite wonderfully satisfying. Then, there’s the visual appeal! With a snowy exterior from the powdered sugar coating, these cookies shine in both taste and presentation.
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies {Crinkles} are festive, making them a great treat not just for holidays but for any casual gathering or celebration. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them on a cozy evening, they’re sure to impress!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
To recreate these mouthwatering cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Red gel coloring (as desired)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookie dough balls)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling cookie dough balls)
Preparing the Dough

Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by creaming the unsalted butter and 1⅓ cups of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, making the cookies tender.
Add Wet Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add your wet ingredients! Incorporate the 3 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of whole milk, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Blend everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda. Ensure there are no lumps—you want everything evenly mixed.
Combine Mixtures
Dump the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Remember, over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix gently! You want everything just incorporated without any dry flour showing.
Chill the Dough
Once the dough is mixed, cover it and chill it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in that beautiful crinkle.
Shaping the Cookies
Scoop and Roll
After chilling, it’s time to shape the cookies! Scoop out small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into small balls. Each ball should be about an inch in diameter to ensure even baking.
Coat the Dough Balls
This step is where the magic happens! First, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar. Then, coat them in powdered sugar for that lovely crinkled finish. This sugary exterior not only tastes amazing but also looks fantastic once they’re baked.
Baking the Cookies
Prepare the Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you get everything ready. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Bake the Cookies
Place those sugar-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking tray, spacing them out to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm. The center might still be soft, but that’s how you want them for that chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies {Crinkles} are delicious warm! Serve them fresh out of the oven with a glass of milk for a classic combination. For a cozy dessert experience, pair them with a hot chocolate or coffee.
Tips for Success
For the perfect batch, ensure your butter is at room temperature. This makes for the best creaming results. Also, remember to use red gel coloring instead of liquid. It provides a brighter color without messing with the moisture content of your dough.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try adding white chocolate chips for an extra burst of sweetness. You could also experiment with different flavored extracts, like almond or peppermint, for a unique spin on this classic cookie.
Storage Tips
To keep your baked cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll hold up in the freezer for about 3 months.
Pairing Ideas
Elevate your cookie game by pairing them with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat. You could also enjoy them with fresh strawberries for a refreshing contrast, balancing out the rich flavor of the cookies.

FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
2. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Freeze individual dough balls and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
4. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
They’re done when the edges are firm, but the centers are still slightly soft.
5. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in nuts or chocolate chips for an extra texture kick.
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies {Crinkles} not only taste incredible but also make every occasion feel special. With their eye-catching color and delightful texture, these cookies are a treat everyone will love. Enjoy your baking and the joy these cookies bring!
Print
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat with a soft, chewy texture and stunning red hue. Ideal for any occasion, they’re sure to impress!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Red gel coloring (as desired)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookie dough balls)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling cookie dough balls)
Instructions
- Cream butter and 1⅓ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, milk, lemon juice or vinegar, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda in another bowl.
- Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture until just mixed.
- Chill dough for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Scoop and roll dough into small balls; coat with granulated sugar and powdered sugar.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking tray.
- Bake cookie balls for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are firm.
Notes
Ensure butter is at room temperature for best results.
Use red gel coloring for a vibrant hue without altering dough moisture.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 25






