Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – Festive and Fudgy

Introduction

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor, a hint of vanilla, and a soft, fudgy center. Their deep red color and crackled powdered sugar coating make them an eye-catching treat, perfect for holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day. These cookies offer the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a chewy, bite-sized form, making them an irresistible addition to any dessert spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appearance – The contrast of red dough and white sugar makes these cookies visually stunning.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – The slightly crisp edges give way to a moist, fudgy center.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these cookies are great for beginners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – While they shine during the holidays, they’re a hit year-round.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel preferred)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps firm up the dough and enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Cookies

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
8. Generously coat each dough ball in powdered sugar, ensuring full coverage.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

9. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still slightly soft in the center.
11. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Variations

• Cream Cheese Filling – Add a surprise center by stuffing the dough with a small cube of cream cheese.
• Chocolate Chip Twist – Mix in white or dark chocolate chips for extra decadence.
• Spiced Version – A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and depth.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 18 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls before rolling in powdered sugar. When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly, then coat in sugar and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Enjoy cookies at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 5–10 seconds.

FAQs

How do I get the best crinkle effect?

Make sure to coat the dough balls generously in powdered sugar and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough also helps create the classic crackled appearance.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, but gel food coloring is more concentrated, which provides a richer red color without altering the dough’s texture.

Why do my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread excessively, your dough may be too warm. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour before baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend for best results.

What’s the best way to measure flour?

Use the spoon-and-level method—spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cookies.

Can I skip the chilling step?

It’s not recommended, as chilling helps the dough firm up, preventing excess spreading and improving the crinkle texture.

How can I make these cookies extra fudgy?

Using a little less flour (about 1 tablespoon less) and slightly underbaking them will enhance their fudginess.

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, but natural cocoa powder is more acidic and may slightly alter the taste and texture.

How do I prevent the powdered sugar from melting?

Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before coating them in powdered sugar. This helps prevent absorption and keeps the crinkle effect strong.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Absolutely! Their striking color and festive appearance make them perfect for holiday cookie boxes and gifts.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a stunning and delicious treat, combining the best elements of red velvet cake and soft-baked cookies. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a special occasion, or just a cozy treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Enjoy them fresh, store them for later, or even freeze some dough for future baking.

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