Deliciously Soft Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulging in a cozy, warm batch of Red Velvet Cookies is one of life’s little joys. Imagine biting into a soft cookie that melts in your mouth, the rich cocoa flavor perfectly complemented by the velvety red hue that has everyone reaching for just one more. Just the sight of these magnificent treats, adorned with creamy frosting, evokes memories of grand celebrations and sweet, love-filled moments.

If you’re like me, every cookie holds a sweet story, perhaps from childhood baking sessions with family or that time when you impressed friends at your first holiday gathering. There’s just something about the vibrant color and decadent flavor of Red Velvet Cookies that makes them ideal for any occasion—be it a casual night in or a birthday bash. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and promise you an experience that’s as satisfying to make as it is to devour.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Red Velvet Cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure and chewiness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that balances out the sweetness and enhances the red color.

1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps create a tender texture that’s irresistible.

1 tsp baking powder – Provides the necessary lift for those delightful, fluffy cookies that have a great bite.

1/2 tsp salt – A pinch of salt brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – This creamy fat adds richness and flavor, making the dough smooth and delightful to work with.

1 large egg – Essential for binding the dough together and contributing to the cookie’s lovely structure.

1 tsp vanilla extract – The aromatic essence that perfectly marries the flavors, making every bite deliciously comforting.

1 tbsp red food coloring – For that classic red velvet appearance that makes these cookies pop visually.

4 oz cream cheese, softened – The star ingredient for the frosting that brings a tangy, creamy finish to the cookies.

1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese frosting to a luscious spreadable texture, perfect for topping the cookies.

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Offers a smooth base for the frosting, making it rich yet light.

1 tsp vanilla extract – Just like in the cookies, it gives the frosting a delightful undertone.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Red Velvet Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This combines the dry ingredients and aerates them for even distribution.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, helping to create that tender cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and you have a beautifully colored batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want tender cookies, not tough ones.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges look set but the centers are still soft.

Step 7: Cool and Frost
Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. To prepare the frosting, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla until well combined. Spread generously over the cooled cookies for a perfectly sweet finish.

Serve your Red Velvet Cookies at your next gathering or enjoy them all week long with a tall glass of milk. Brace yourself for the compliments, smiles, and that sweet tooth satisfaction that follows!

Perfecting Red Velvet Cookies Cooking Process

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, whisk your dry ingredients while creaming the butter and sugar separately. Always combine the wet and dry mixes gradually for an even dough.

Add Your Touch to Red Velvet Cookies

Feel free to swap out the red food coloring with natural beet juice for a healthier alternative. You can also add chocolate chips for extra sweetness or include nuts for a crunchy texture to elevate your Red Velvet Cookies.

Storing & Reheating Red Velvet Cookies

Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For reheating, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.

Sharing a batch of these Red Velvet Cookies at a family gathering brought smiles all around. My cousin, who typically avoids desserts, declared these cookies “life-changing!” It felt amazing to see everyone enjoy them so much.

FAQs About Red Velvet Cookies

What are Red Velvet Cookies?

Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful dessert that combines the velvety richness of red velvet cake with the chewy goodness of cookies. They are distinctively vibrant, usually red or burgundy, owing to the addition of food coloring. Cocoa powder gives them a subtle chocolate flavor, while cream cheese frosting often tops them, adding a delicious tangy sweetness. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies lend a festive touch to dessert tables, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.

How do I make Red Velvet Cookies from scratch?

Making Red Velvet Cookies from scratch is easier than you might think! Start by creaming butter and sugar, then add an egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mix until fully combined. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake until perfectly soft. Don’t forget to let them cool and frost with cream cheese icing for that velvety finish!

Can I freeze Red Velvet Cookies?

Yes, you can definitely freeze Red Velvet Cookies! To freeze them, ensure that they are completely cooled. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, which helps maintain their shape. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave for that just-baked flavor.

What can I substitute for red food coloring in Red Velvet Cookies?

If you prefer a natural alternative to red food coloring in Red Velvet Cookies, consider using beet juice or powder. This gives a lovely color while also keeping the recipe on the healthier side. However, keep in mind that using beet juice may slightly alter the flavor, giving it an earthier taste. You could also use pomegranate juice or a blend of fruit purees, but remember that the final result might not be as vibrant as the classic red hue.

Conclusion for Red Velvet Cookies

In summary, Red Velvet Cookies are a unique and delicious treat that effortlessly combines the elegance of red velvet cake with the convenience of cookies. With their delightful flavor and vibrant color, they’re perfect for any occasion.Making Red Velvet Cookies from scratch is a rewarding experience, not to mention how fun they are to decorate with cream cheese frosting. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or frozen, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and share the joy!

Deliciously Soft Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Red Velvet Cookies combine vibrant color and rich flavors, topped with cream cheese frosting for an unforgettable treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• Oven
• mixing bowl
• whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7g

Notes

For a healthier alternative, you can substitute red food coloring with beet juice. Adding chocolate chips or nuts can also enhance flavor and texture.

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