Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – All Cooks Corner

Quick Benefits

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a fun and easy-to-make treat with the rich flavor of red velvet cake, but in cookie form! These cookies have a chewy texture with a delicate crackled crust, and they’re lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or satisfying your sweet tooth. With minimal prep time and ingredients, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Essential Ingredients

1 (15.25 ounce) box Duncan Hines red velvet cake mix: The base of the cookies, providing the distinct red velvet flavor and color.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and give structure to the cookies.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy note to complement the rich red velvet flavor.
1 cup powdered sugar: Used to coat the cookies and create the signature crinkle effect.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps create a softer, chewier texture for the cookies.

Preparation Steps

Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and lemon zest. Mix by hand until well blended and a dough forms.
Prepare the powdered sugar coating: In a shallow dish, mix powdered sugar and cornstarch with a fork until well combined.
Shape the cookies: Form the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the powdered sugar mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Place on baking sheets: Arrange the dough balls about 2 inches apart on cool, ungreased baking sheets.
Bake the cookies: Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the cookies are set. Let them cool for 1 minute on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Repeat: Bake the remaining cookies in batches.

Health Benefits

While Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are a delicious indulgence, they do provide a small amount of calcium and iron from the powdered sugar and cake mix. However, due to their sugar content and the fact that they are a treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation. These cookies are a fun way to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of red velvet cake without the need for frosting or cake layers.

Serving Suggestions

These Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual gatherings. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat. They also make a great gift when packaged in a festive tin or box, and are perfect for cookie exchanges during the holidays. For a festive touch, you can drizzle some white chocolate over the top or add sprinkles for extra color.

Creative Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: For added richness, drizzle melted white or milk chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies: Make them into sandwich cookies by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies.
Add-ins: Mix in some mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
Flavored Coating: Use colored sugars or sprinkles instead of powdered sugar for a more festive appearance.

Storage Tips

Store your Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They will stay good for up to 5 days at room temperature. To ensure they remain chewy, you can place a slice of bread in the container, which will help maintain their moisture. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for storage.

Pro Tips

Don’t overmix the dough: When combining the ingredients, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can result in denser cookies.
Ensure even coating: Be sure to coat the dough balls evenly in the powdered sugar mixture to create the perfect crackled effect when baked.
Proper baking: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Overbaking can make them crisp instead of chewy, so take them out when they are just set and slightly firm around the edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cake mix for these cookies?
Yes, you can use a different cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to create different flavored crinkle cookies. The method remains the same.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, coat with powdered sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, place them directly on the baking sheet and bake as instructed, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these cookies without lemon zest?
While lemon zest adds a bright flavor, you can skip it or substitute it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

Can I make the cookies without cornstarch?
Yes, cornstarch helps create a softer, chewier cookie, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it. The cookies may be slightly less chewy but still delicious.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Be sure to also check that the cake mix you use is gluten-free.