Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the irresistible texture of crinkle cookies. Their vibrant color and sweet chocolate flavor make them a showstopper dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just treating yourself and your loved ones, these cookies will surely add joy and festivity. The best part is that they are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and straightforward steps.
Why Make This Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are not just visually appealing; they also offer a unique flavor experience. The rich cocoa combined with the tangy hints of the classic red velvet cake make them a perfect combination. They have a satisfying crinkly surface and a chewy inside that melts in your mouth, making every bite a delight. They are great for holiday parties, birthday celebrations, or an afternoon snack. Plus, they pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making them a versatile dessert choice.
How to Make Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Making Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies is straightforward. All you need is a bit of patience while the cookies cool down after baking. The process involves mixing dry ingredients, combining them with wet ingredients, forming the dough, and then baking. In no time, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies to enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- Powdered sugar for coating
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix!
- Scoop tablespoons of dough, roll them into balls, and then roll them in powdered sugar until well coated.
- Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space in between each for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
- Allow to cool on wire racks for a few minutes before transferring and enjoying!
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (approximately 1 cookie, assuming batch makes 24):
- Calories: 140
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 2g
Nutritional values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients used.
How to Serve Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These cookies shine in any setting! Serve them at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoy them alongside your afternoon coffee. For an elegant touch, place them on a decorative platter and dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving. Pair them with cream cheese frosting for a delightful dessert sandwich or indulge in a scoop of vanilla ice cream atop a warm cookie.
How to Store Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dough or the baked cookies. For freezing, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag for up to three months. Baked cookies can be frozen in a similar way for up to two months. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. This helps with better mixing and a smoother texture.
- Don’t overlook the measuring of flour—too much can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for the best results.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes if the dough feels too sticky; this will make handling and rolling easier.
- Experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or coconut, to add a twist to the traditional flavor.
Delicious Variations
- White Chocolate Chips: Fold in some white chocolate chips to complement the red velvet flavors.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Make a cream cheese center by molding the dough around a small dollop of cream cheese for a gooey surprise.
- Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that enhances the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour if you prefer a softer texture. Just note that you might need to adjust the amount since cake flour is lighter than all-purpose flour.
What can I substitute for red food coloring?
You can use natural alternatives like beet juice or pomegranate juice for a healthier option, but the final color may not match the classic red velvet hue.
Why are my cookies flat?
Cookies can spread too much if the dough is too warm or if you added too much flour. Always measure flour accurately and try chilling the dough for better structure.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a fun and festive treat that everyone will love. They’re easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for a variety of occasions. With their eye-catching color and delightful taste, they are sure to impress. So why not try making these lovely cookies today? You’ll be glad you did! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments — we’d love to hear how they turned out!