Rich, chocolatey, and stunningly festive, Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are the kind of dessert that instantly steals the spotlight. With their deep red color, crackled powdered sugar coating, and ultra-soft centers, these cookies deliver the perfect balance of fudgy texture and classic red velvet flavor. Every bite is tender, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, cookie exchanges, or anytime you want a bakery-style cookie that looks as good as it tastes, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow a crowd.
Why You’ll Love Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Soft, fudgy centers with crisp crinkled edges
- Beautiful red velvet color with powdered sugar contrast
- No chilling required (optional for extra thickness)
- Perfect for holidays and special occasions
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1¾ cups | Structure |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¼ cup | Chocolate flavor |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Lift |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Balance |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup | Richness |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | Moisture |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binding |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Flavor |
| Red food coloring | 1–1½ tbsp | Signature color |
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | Crinkle coating |
How to Make Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
👉 Tip: Sifting cocoa powder helps prevent lumps.
3. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring until evenly combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a thick, soft dough forms.
👉 Texture Note: The dough should be soft but scoopable—not runny.
4. Roll in Powdered Sugar
Scoop dough into 1½-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball first between your palms to smooth it, then coat generously in powdered sugar.
👉 Crinkle Tip: For extra bold cracks, roll dough twice in powdered sugar.
5. Bake
Place dough balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies are puffed, cracked, and set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Do not overbake—cookies will continue to set as they cool.
6. Cool
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
- Use room-temperature eggs for smoother dough
- Don’t overbake—soft centers are key
- Roll generously in powdered sugar
- Chill dough 20–30 minutes for thicker cookies (optional)
Variations & Substitutions
- Cream cheese flavor: Add 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese to the dough
- White chocolate: Mix in white chocolate chips
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Natural coloring: Use beet powder for a natural red hue
What to Serve With These Cookies
- Hot cocoa or coffee
- Vanilla ice cream
- Holiday dessert platters
- Gift boxes or cookie tins
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months.
Make Ahead:
Dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?
The dough may have been too warm or not coated enough in powdered sugar.
Are these cookies cakey or fudgy?
They’re soft and fudgy, not cakey.
Can I make them without food coloring?
Yes—they’ll taste the same, just without the red color.
Do these cookies spread a lot?
No. They puff and crack rather than spreading flat.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a show-stopping cookie that delivers both flavor and visual appeal, Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are the perfect choice. Soft, rich, and beautifully crackled, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite for holidays, celebrations, and everyday sweet cravings alike.