These delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a festive twist on the classic red velvet cake, featuring a rich cocoa flavor and a stunning red hue. With their soft, chewy texture and powdered sugar coating, these cookies are not only visually appealing but also irresistible in taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or simply a treat for yourself. The combination of cocoa and red food coloring creates a vibrant cookie that stands out on any dessert table. Plus, the crinkle effect gives them a homemade charm that will impress your family and friends. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy bakers.
Introduction
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the flavors of classic red velvet cake in a cookie form. The vibrant red color and the soft, chewy texture make these cookies a favorite among both kids and adults. With a simple ingredient list and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a glass of milk. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious cookies!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp milk
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 5 tsp red food coloring
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
Step 2:
In the bowl of a standing mixer (or using a hand mixer), whip the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, ensuring a soft texture.
Step 3:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully combined. The batter should be a vibrant red color at this stage.
Step 4:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 1 1/2 hours, or until it is firm enough to shape into balls.
Step 5:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the powdered sugar into a small bowl. Once the dough has chilled, scoop out portions of the dough (about 2 tablespoons each) and, using buttered hands, shape them into balls. Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until evenly coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with Silpat or parchment paper, flattening them slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 14 minutes.
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Baking Note:
For the best results, ensure that your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing. Also, chilling the dough is essential for achieving the perfect texture and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Suggestions for Presentation:
These cookies are a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. To present them beautifully, arrange them on a decorative plate and dust them with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just roll them in powdered sugar before baking directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
- Variations: For an extra twist, add chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the dough before chilling.
Times:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cooking Time: 13-14 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including chilling)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 109 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 56 mg
Conclusion
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a cookie form. With their eye-catching color and delightful taste, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your kitchen.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes, you can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color, but be sure to adjust the amount based on the concentration. - What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg replacement, although this may slightly alter the texture. - How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. - Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. - What is the best way to serve these cookies?
These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an indulgent treat.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies!
