Making Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.

4. Add the Egg and Flavorings: Add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.

5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help firm it up.

7. Scoop the Dough: Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them into balls.

8. Roll in Powdered Sugar: Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat them fully. This will create the signature crinkle effect.

9. Bake the Cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set.

10. Cool the Cookies: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.