Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a charming treat perfect for showing love on Valentine’s Day. Their rich red color and soft, cracked surface make them look as delightful as they taste. These cookies are not just visually appealing; they also have a wonderful flavor that combines the tastes of cocoa and vanilla, making them irresistible.
Ingredients
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red food coloring
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Cream the butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the wet ingredients – Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully combined.
Combine – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Chill the dough – Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Shape the cookies – Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and coat each one in powdered sugar.
Bake – Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies crackle on top.
Cool and serve – Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 52 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies
Baking Pro Tips
Chill the dough – Refrigerating the dough helps create the perfect crinkle effect when baking.
Use high-quality cocoa – A good cocoa powder enhances the rich chocolatey taste.
Don’t overbake – The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven; they will firm up as they cool.
Even coating of powdered sugar – Roll the dough balls generously in powdered sugar to achieve the signature crinkle look.
Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are the perfect way to spread love and sweetness on Valentine’s Day. Their deep red hue, rich flavor, and soft texture make them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re gifting them, serving at a gathering, or enjoying them with coffee, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them alongside jam thumbprint cookies or heart-shaped cookies for a festive cookie platter!