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Crispy Firecracker Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

crispy firecracker red velvet crinkle cookies - featured image

These crispy firecracker red velvet crinkle cookies feature crisp edges, a chewy center, and a signature powdered sugar crackle, perfect for celebrations or everyday treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
  3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter with vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until smooth and vibrant.
  5. Add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix gently but thoroughly after each addition.
  6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  7. Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons (approximately 25g) of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar.
  8. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until edges are set and slightly crispy but centers still look soft.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Serve once cooled or store as directed.

Notes

Use a mix of butter and vegetable oil for crisp edges and tender centers. Chill dough at least 1 hour or overnight for best texture. Roll dough balls generously in powdered sugar for signature crackle. Watch baking time closely to avoid overbaking. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Vegan adaptations include using vegan margarine, flax eggs, and almond milk with vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet cookies, crinkle cookies, crispy cookies, firecracker cookies, powdered sugar cookies, easy dessert, holiday cookies