Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of cocoa and the tang of buttermilk. These cookies are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red color but also feature a soft and fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. When you bite into a freshly baked cookie, the classic powdered sugar coating cracks beautifully, making every cookie a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Perfect for holiday celebrations, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
There are countless reasons to adore these red velvet cookies. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to for busy bakers. Secondly, their unique flavor profile combines cocoa and vanilla, offering a deliciously rich experience. Thirdly, the soft texture of these cookies is irresistible. Fourthly, they are versatile; you can enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese frosting. Furthermore, they are perfect for festive occasions, especially during the holidays. Lastly, these cookies are a great way to impress guests when you serve them at parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Gather these items:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.25 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 0.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoons baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling cookies
How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the melted and cooled unsalted butter with granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the large egg thoroughly.
- Step 4: Stir in the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar to the wet mixture, blending well to achieve an even color and flavor.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined without overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Step 6: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, shape the dough into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Step 7: Place the coated dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops crack and the cookies look set but remain soft inside.
- Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- These cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
- Don’t overbake them; they should be soft in the center for the best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. If you want to add a twist, serve them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside peppermint hot cocoa during the holidays.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, use the final step of baking instructions: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. This is a great way to enjoy homemade red velvet crinkle cookies at home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
What is a Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie?
A Red Velvet Crinkle Cookie is a soft and chewy cookie characterized by its rich red color and a powdered sugar coating. The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives it a unique flavor, making it a popular choice for holiday baking.
Can I make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just roll the dough in powdered sugar right before baking for the best results. This makes it convenient to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and don’t overmix the dough. Also, be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain soft in the center for the best texture.
Variations of Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:
- Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies with Cream Cheese: Add a cream cheese frosting drizzle on top for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Chocolate Red Velvet Cookies: Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolaty twist.
- Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies for Christmas: Add festive sprinkles to the powdered sugar for a holiday touch.

For more festive recipes, check out our Peppermint Christmas Float and Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. If you’re interested in baking tips, you might find our Gingerbread Tiramisu helpful.
Print
Delicious Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe to Try
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are delightfully soft and fudgy with a beautiful red hue and a classic powdered sugar coating that cracks perfectly as they bake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.25 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 0.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoons baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling cookies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted and cooled unsalted butter with granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the large egg thoroughly.
- Stir in the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar to the wet mixture, blending well to achieve an even color and flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined without overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, shape the dough into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops crack and the cookies look set but remain soft inside.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- These cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
