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Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

red velvet crinkle cookies - featured image
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These easy, chewy red velvet crinkle cookies are a festive holiday treat with a vibrant ruby color, classic cocoa-vanilla flavor, and irresistible crackled powdered sugar tops. Perfect for cookie swaps, gifting, or family gatherings, they deliver soft centers and crisp edges in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (15g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (2g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (57g)
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened (57g)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
  • 1 teaspoon gel red food coloring or 2 tablespoons liquid red food coloring (5ml or 30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar (5ml)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g), for rolling
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (30g), optional, for rolling

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or 15 minutes in the freezer if short on time).
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. If desired, mix in granulated sugar for extra sticking power.
  9. Using a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon), portion dough and roll each ball first in granulated sugar (if using), then heavily in powdered sugar.
  10. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  11. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until tops are crackled and edges just set. Centers should look slightly underbaked.
  12. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Double rolling in granulated and powdered sugar creates dramatic crinkles. Chill dough for best texture and shape. Do not overbake—cookies should look slightly underdone in the center for maximum chewiness. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, use suitable flour and dairy substitutes. Add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices can be used for variety.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://avabake.com/red-velvet-crinkle-cookies-recipe-easy-chewy-holiday-treats/