Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for the cookie's texture.1 cup unsalted butter, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- Beat in the two large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and, if using, the almond extract until well combined.2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- Add a few drops of red gel food coloring to the wet mixture. Start with a small amount and add more until you achieve your desired Valentine's Day pink hue. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant color without altering the dough's consistency.red gel food coloring
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing pockets of unmixed ingredients.2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll. Chilling the dough is essential for crinkle cookies as it makes them easier to handle and helps them spread less during baking, creating those signature crinkles.
- Once the dough is chilled, place a generous amount of confectioners' sugar into a shallow bowl.confectioners' sugar
- Scoop rounded tablespoonfuls of the chilled dough and roll them into smooth balls.
- Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the confectioners' sugar, ensuring it's completely coated. This sugary coating will melt and crack during baking, creating the "crinkled" appearance and adding a delightful sweetness.confectioners' sugar
- Place the coated dough balls onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in a low oven or enjoy at room temperature.
