Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes
Servings: 12
Indulging in the sweet world of cookies is a universal joy, and there’s something particularly special about red velvet cookies. Their rich flavor, captivating color, and soft, chewy texture make them a treat that tempts even the staunchest of dessert skeptics. If you’ve ever indulged in a Crumbl red velvet cookie, you know how divine they can be. But what if you could whip up these delightful cookies in the comfort of your own kitchen? With this Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies recipe, you’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create memories with family and friends as they devour these cookies with glee.
This recipe will guide you through achieving those soft, rich, and flavorful cookies reminiscent of the beloved cookie chain. You’ll learn about the ingredients, the process, useful cooking tips, and even some variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. By the end of this article, you’ll not only be ready to impress with your baking skills but also find comfort in creating something special for loved ones.
What Is Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies?
Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional red velvet cake. Originating from the unique Southern dessert, red velvet cake has a soft and velvety texture, a hint of cocoa, and just the right amount of tang from cream cheese frosting. This cookie rendition aims to capture that same essence but in cookie form, making for a more portable and shareable treat.
This cookie features a smooth, rich base made from a combination of flour, cocoa, and a striking amount of red food coloring, achieving that iconic crimson hue. The taste is a blend of slightly chocolatey, buttery, and vanilla notes, complemented by a subtle cream cheese flavor. When baked just right, you’ll bite into a cookie that’s crisp at the edges yet soft and chewy in the center. It’s this delightful contrast of flavors and textures that truly makes these cookies special.
In this recipe, you will learn not only how to make a delicious version of these cookies but also how to replicate the quintessential softness and flavor that defines the Crumbl experience. With a few simple steps, you can recreate this extraordinary dessert and impress your family and friends in the comfort of your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This
The appeal of Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies goes beyond their stunning appearance. These cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, providing that sweet satisfaction we all crave. Their unique color alone is enough to draw eyes and spark curiosity; when you take a bite, the first thing you’ll notice is that sumptuous texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow, making it perfect for both novice bakers and those with more experience. You can whip up a batch in under an hour, making it an excellent last-minute treat for parties or family gatherings. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it a budget-friendly option as well. Being able to create such luxurious cookies without breaking the bank is truly a win-win situation.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe is appealing. Whether you’re making these cookies for a holiday celebration, a birthday bash, or simply a cozy afternoon snack, they fit the bill. If you’re looking to eat healthier or cater to dietary restrictions, the following sections will provide several variations and substitutions common in baking practices today.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these flavorful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the base and gives the cookie structure. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Cocoa powder: It adds a depth of chocolate flavor. Ensure you use unsweetened cocoa for the best results.
- Granulated sugar: This is essential for sweetness and helps to achieve the chewy texture.
- Brown sugar: It provides moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that balances the cocoa.
- Baking soda: It acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies just the right rise.
- Red food coloring: The star of the show that gives these cookies their signature color. You can use gel or liquid food coloring.
- Eggs: They help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture.
- Vanilla extract: This adds flavor and enhances the sweetness of the cookie.
- Salt: A critical component that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Cream cheese frosting (optional): For topping your cookies, it adds a delightful creamy finish that takes the cookies to the next level.
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the perfect soft and chewy texture of these cookies. If you’re looking for substitutions, consider using coconut sugar for a healthier sweetener option or using dairy-free butter and cream cheese if catering to vegan diets.
How to Make
Creating your Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies is a delightful process. Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best results:
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven preheats, you can move on to preparing your cookie dough.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything is well combined, as this ensures that the cookies have a uniform texture.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¾ cup of softened butter until fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The creaming process is key as it incorporates air, which helps your cookies rise nicely.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Once the mixture is fluffy, add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Incorporate red food coloring: You’ll need 1-2 tablespoons of red food coloring. Add it to your wet mixture and mix until the color is even. Don’t be afraid to use a bit more if you want a richer hue!
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix as this can result in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Cover your dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Shape and bake: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out dough and place it onto a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. Start checking around the 10-minute mark; the edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft, as cookies continue baking on the sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Cool and frost: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, you can frost them with cream cheese frosting for that delicious finishing touch.
- Enjoy: Now, sit back and watch as your family or friends dive into these delicious red velvet cookies!
Cooking these cookies fills your kitchen with incredible aromas, bringing that warm and inviting feeling that only freshly baked goods can bring. Remember, practice makes perfect. If it’s your first time attempting cookies of this style, embrace the experience and be patient.
Variations & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Variation: For those needing gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many commercial blends provide a 1:1 ratio, making this a seamless swap. Additionally, ensure that your baking soda is also gluten-free. The flavors and textures will still shine through in these delightful cookies.
Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Cookies: If you love chocolate, consider adding 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough before baking. Chocolate chips not only enhance the flavors but also add an enjoyable texture contrast in each bite. This variation is perfect for chocoholics who want their cookie to pack an extra punch of sweetness and indulgence.
Nutty Red Velvet Cookies: For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough. Nuts add a unique texture and flavor to the cookies. They complement the buttery richness of red velvet perfectly and provide healthy fats and additional protein, which makes the cookies more satisfying.
Vegan Red Velvet Cookies: To make these cookies plant-based, swap the butter for vegan butter, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. The cookie texture remains soft and delicious, allowing vegans to indulge in the same delightful flavors without compromising their dietary preferences.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: For a fun twist, you can transform these cookies into whoopie pies. Simply bake the cookies as instructed but make them slightly larger and sandwich a dollop of cream cheese frosting between two cookies. This adaptation makes for an even more delightful treat, perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making red velvet cookies, it’s essential to watch for common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. One major mistake is skipping the chilling step. Not chilling the dough can cause the cookies to spread too much while baking. A chilled dough allows the fat to solidify and prevents excessive spreading, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies.
Another common issue is using the wrong type of cocoa powder. Cocoa powder can vary in acidity and richness. Always choose unsweetened cocoa, as sweetened options can lead to overly sugary cookies that lose the red velvet’s distinctive flavor.
Overbaking is another mistake to avoid. If you let the cookies bake too long, they may become dry and lose that chewy texture. Remember to remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. They will continue to bake on the sheet, so pulling them out at just the right moment becomes paramount for achieving that perfect cookie.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of proper measuring. Imprecise measurements, especially for flour, can lead to either dry or overly wet dough. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Storing your Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies correctly will ensure they stay fresh and delicious. If you have leftovers (which is unlikely due to their deliciousness), keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This method will retain their moisture and soft texture. If you prefer softer cookies, seal the container with a piece of bread; this will keep them from drying out.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. After they cool completely, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe Ziploc bag. Label the container with the date and store them in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm through, restoring that freshly-baked feel.
If you’re freezing the cookie dough instead of baked cookies, form the dough into balls and arrange them on a baking tray. Freeze the balls for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can bake them fresh whenever the craving hits—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when baking from frozen.
Food safety best practices are essential as well. Always allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them, as trapping moisture can lead to mold growth. Be mindful of how long they sit at room temperature and ensure proper sealing methods to avoid contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! While all-purpose flour is typically used for cookies due to its higher protein content, cake flour can also be used for a softer texture. Just keep in mind that the cookies may be a little more delicate.
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Absolutely! Gel food coloring is actually preferred by many bakers, as it provides a richer, more vibrant color without adding too much liquid. Use the same amount recommended in the recipe for optimal results.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, simply add a bit more flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Remember to do this gradually, as adding too much can change the texture of your cookies.
Can these cookies be made without eggs?
Yes, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or a store-bought egg substitute. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
How do I make the cream cheese frosting less sweet?
To tone down the sweetness of your cream cheese frosting, you can add a pinch of salt or incorporate some sour cream. Both options will cut through the sweetness and balance the flavor beautifully, resulting in a creamy and tangy frosting.
Conclusion:
Classic Crumbl Copycat Red Velvet Cookies are not just another dessert; they represent creativity, comfort, and the joy of baking. From the vivid color to the rich flavor, these cookies capture hearts and tantalize taste buds. The process is straightforward, making it a fun activity for busy parents, beginners, or anyone wanting to create something special in their own kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe, customize it to your liking, or share it with friends and family. Get ready to delight everyone with these mouth-watering treats, and watch how quickly they become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
