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Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

red velvet crinkle cookies - featured image

These soft and chewy red velvet crinkle cookies are a festive holiday treat with a classic cocoa flavor, vibrant color, and a snowy powdered sugar coating. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, or adding a pop of color to your dessert table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling before powdered sugar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk granulated sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red gel food coloring. Mix until fully combined and vibrant.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  5. If dough is too sticky, chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough (about 20g each). Roll between your hands to form smooth balls.
  7. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar (and granulated sugar first if desired for extra crunch). Ensure a thick coating for the best crinkle effect.
  8. Arrange cookies about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until tops are cracked and edges are set but centers are still soft.
  10. Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Enjoy once cooled, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

For best results, use gel food coloring for vibrant color and a thick powdered sugar coating for a dramatic crinkle effect. If dough is too sticky, chill before shaping. Cookies keep well for several days and get softer overnight. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, see blog tips. Add mini white chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet, crinkle cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, easy cookie recipe, chewy cookies, festive dessert, powdered sugar cookies