Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies

Name: Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; Red food coloring (to desired shade); 1 cup confectioner's sugar; Large heart sprinkles for decoration

By:

Marry

Published:

December 20, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and what better way to celebrate love than with some sweet treats? Today, I’m excited to share a simple yet absolutely delightful recipe for Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies. These cookies are a beautiful blend of charm and flavor; their soft, chewy texture with a hint of sweetness makes them irresistible! The best part? You don’t need to be a master baker to whip these up. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in, attending a potluck, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. So, grab your apron, and let’s transform your kitchen into a sweet haven without any fuss!

Why This Recipe Works

Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies combine simplicity and delightful aesthetics, making them perfect for a romantic occasion. The use of a white cake mix as a base not only speeds up the preparation process but also results in a soft, chewy cookie that’s perfectly consistent in texture. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find creating these cookies enjoyable rather than daunting. Who doesn’t love a cookie that looks as lovely as it tastes?

Why You’ll Love This Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are not just visually stunning with their charming red hue and sprinkled hearts; their taste is irresistibly sweet and subtly festive. Ideal for sharing, gifting, or savoring with loved ones, these cookies evoke the warm, loving feelings associated with Valentine’s Day. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a soft center, creating the perfect balance that will leave your friends and family asking for more. Plus, the heart sprinkles make them an adorable addition to your Valentine’s festivities!

Ingredients for Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies

To make these lovely cookies, you’ll need:

1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
Red food coloring (to desired shade)
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
Large heart sprinkles for decoration

Gathering these ingredients is quick, making this recipe an excellent choice for any unexpected visitors or last-minute celebrations!

How to Make Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies

Creating this delicious treat is straightforward, so let’s get started!

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line a baking sheet with a Silpat liner or parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of the cookies after baking, avoiding any sticky situations.

Combine the Ingredients

In a bowl of an electric mixer, blend together the white cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and a few drops of red food coloring. Mix until everything is smooth and fully combined. Don’t be shy with the food coloring; add enough until you reach your desired shade of pink or red.

Chill the Dough

After mixing, it’s time to chill the dough. Place it in the refrigerator for about 10 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps firm up the dough, making it much easier to roll into balls later on.

Roll the Dough

Once the dough is chilled, you’re ready to roll! Use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the dough into 1-inch balls. This size is just right for a perfect mouthful of goodness.

Coat with Sugar

Take each ball and roll it in confectioner’s sugar until it’s fully coated. This step not only adds sweetness but will also contribute to that iconic crinkle effect once baked. Then, place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.

Add the Heart Sprinkle

Here comes the fun part! Gently press a large heart sprinkle into the center of each dough ball, ensuring it’s well-placed so it creates a beautiful visual effect after baking. These little touches make a big difference!

Bake the Cookies

Now for the magic of baking! Pop the cookies in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be just golden at the edges. They might appear slightly underbaked, but don’t worry—they’ll continue to set as they cool!

Cooling Time

After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes. This step is important for helping them hold their shape. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, these Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies shine! Arrange them on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of extra heart sprinkles on top for a festive presentation. For an added treat, pair them with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. Sharing these treats with loved ones, or even keeping them all to yourself, sounds perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Success

To ensure your baking experience goes smoothly, consider these handy tips:

Be sure to chill the dough properly; this makes it easier to handle and results in puffier cookies.
Adjust the food coloring to fit your preference—whether you want a soft blush or a deep red shade.
Remember, don’t overbake the cookies! It’s better for them to look a bit underbaked, as they’ll firm up while cooling.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to consider:

Substitute the white cake mix with red velvet cake mix for a richer flavor and deeper color.
Add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for an extra texture delight.
Experiment with different sprinkles—try pink, white, or even glittery options for a festive flair!

Storage Tips

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to save some for later, consider freezing them. Just layer parchment paper between cookies in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cake mix instead of the boxed version?
Absolutely! Just ensure the ratios of dry and wet ingredients match closely to what the boxed mix recommends.

2. What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can use any food coloring you have or opt for natural alternatives like beet juice for coloring.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a delightful gluten-free treat.

4. How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges but a soft center. They will continue cooking on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.

5. Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours prior to baking.

These Valentine’s Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for celebrating love or simply enjoying a sweet moment. Their soft texture, charming appearance, and ease of preparation make them ideal for bakers of any age. Share them with loved ones to spread joy and sweetness this Valentine’s Day, or savor them as a little indulgence just for you! Enjoy the sweetness and warmth that these cookies bring to your festivities!