How to know when red velvet cookies are done?

They’re ready when the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Don’t overbake—they’ll finish setting as they cool.

How long do red velvet cookies last?

They last up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer.

What are some fun facts about red velvet cake?

Red velvet was originally tinted with natural cocoa and buttermilk reactions before food coloring became common. It became a holiday favorite for its festive color and soft texture.

Why put vinegar in red velvet cookies?

Some recipes include vinegar to enhance the cocoa’s red tones and react with baking soda for extra tenderness. This version doesn’t need it since the texture stays soft naturally.

Red Velvet Cookies – Delicious Christmas Treat

Name: Red Velvet Cookies – The Ultimate Christmas Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred); 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Description

Red Velvet cookies with soft, chewy centers and a snowy powdered sugar crinkle. Festive, quick, and perfect for Christmas gifting or cozy cocoa breaks.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)

1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Whisk flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

3. Cream butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla and red food coloring.

4. Add dry ingredients to wet and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

6. Form 1-inch balls and roll each generously in powdered sugar.

7. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.

8. Bake 10–12 minutes until set at the edges but soft in the center.

9. Cool on the sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Notes

Use unsweetened, non-Dutch cocoa for the best red velvet flavor.

Choose gel food coloring for a vibrant red without thinning the dough.

Chilling the dough improves handling and reduces spread.

Roll generously in powdered sugar to boost the crinkle effect.

Yields about 24 cookies; great for holiday platters or gifting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Christmas Dessert Recipes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie