These Quick Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are your go-to solution for an effortlessly festive treat. With their rich cocoa flavor, tender bite, and signature crinkle finish, they look bakery-worthy but come together in under 30 minutes. The vibrant red hue paired with the snowy powdered sugar cracks makes them a favorite during holidays, Valentine’s Day, or anytime you want to impress without the stress.

Perfect for beginner bakers or when you’re short on time, these cookies start with a simple boxed cake mix. But don’t let that fool you—the results are irresistibly soft, chewy, and full of nostalgic red velvet charm. They’re also great for making with kids thanks to their easy mix-and-roll method.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, go with a classic red velvet cake mix (typically around 15.25 oz). Brands like Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker work wonderfully. Make sure you don’t use mixes with pudding already in them as they can change the dough’s consistency.

Ingredients for the Quick Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

1 box (15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

How To Make the Quick Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined and a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Chill for Easy Handling

Place the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle when rolling.

Step 4: Roll and Coat

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball. Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.

Step 5: Bake to Crinkle Perfection

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the tops have cracked and the edges are just set.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve these red velvet crinkle cookies slightly warm or fully cooled with a tall glass of milk, coffee, or hot cocoa. They also make stunning additions to holiday cookie boxes or party platters.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just layer with parchment to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these cookies more chocolatey?

Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra hit of cocoa goodness.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter for the vegetable oil. The texture will be slightly richer and denser.

Why didn’t my cookies crack on top?

Your dough may have been too warm or not coated in enough powdered sugar. Try chilling the dough longer next time.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough, refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, and then roll and bake when ready.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Only if you use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix. Always double-check the packaging.

If you love these red velvet crinkle cookies, you’ll want to bake your way through these other fun twists:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chocolate chips or maybe a cream cheese drizzle? Did your cookies crack just right?

I love seeing your spins on my bakes. Questions or tips? Share away—we’re all in this sweet journey together.

Quick Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 18 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Soft, chewy, and vibrant, these Quick Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are made with just five ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for festive occasions or cozy baking days, they’re rolled in powdered sugar to reveal beautiful crackled tops with rich red velvet flavor.