If you love the charm of red velvet cake but want something easier to make and share, these Red Velvet Cookies are the perfect treat. With their deep red hue, crinkled powdered sugar tops, and soft, chewy texture, they’re a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting to friends, or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Growing up, red velvet cake was always the showstopper at family gatherings. Its vibrant color, hint of cocoa, and soft crumb made it unforgettable. But sometimes, making an entire cake feels like too much effort for a quick sweet craving. That’s where these cookies come in.
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies capture everything you love about the cake—rich flavor, festive color, and just the right amount of sweetness—in a bite-sized, shareable form. They’ve become a go-to in my kitchen for both everyday treats and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples to bring these cookies to life:
- All-purpose flour + cocoa powder – The base of the cookie with that signature hint of chocolate.
- Baking powder + salt – For lift and balanced flavor.
- Unsalted butter + sugar – Creates a moist, chewy texture.
- Eggs + vanilla extract – Adds richness and aroma.
- Red food coloring – Gel food coloring gives the brightest red color.
- Powdered sugar – Rolled on before baking for the iconic crinkle effect.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookies
- Mix the dry ingredients – Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar – Beat until fluffy, then add eggs, vanilla, and food coloring.
- Combine wet and dry – Mix gently until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the dough – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; this prevents spreading.
- Shape and roll – Scoop into balls, coat generously in powdered sugar, and place on lined baking sheets.
- Bake – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until set but still soft in the center.
- Cool – Let rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use regular cocoa powder – Dutch-processed can affect both color and flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling – It makes the dough easier to work with and helps keep that thick, chewy texture.
- Coat well in powdered sugar – The thicker the coating, the more striking the crinkle pattern will be.
- Watch the bake time – Pull them out while they’re still soft; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Serving Ideas
These cookies are versatile and festive enough for any occasion:
- Pair with a cream cheese frosting dip for extra indulgence.
- Wrap them in clear bags tied with ribbon for homemade gifts.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Add them to a holiday cookie platter for a pop of red and white.
Recipe Card
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Servings: 24 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Chill Time: 30 mins | Bake Time: 10–12 mins
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel recommended)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and food coloring.
- Mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
- Scoop dough into 1-inch balls, roll in powdered sugar, and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake 10–12 minutes, until crackled and just set. Cool on the sheet, then transfer to a rack.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest desserts can be the most impressive. With their vibrant color, soft texture, and crinkled sugar tops, they’re perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday sweet cravings. Bake a batch, share with loved ones, and watch them disappear fast!