Few desserts capture hearts like red velvet. Its vibrant color, subtle cocoa flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it irresistible. But why limit red velvet to cakes when you can have Red Velvet Cookies? These cookies deliver the classic taste you love in a portable, shareable form, complete with creamy frosting and optional sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just because, these cookies are sure to delight. And with this detailed guide, you’ll create perfect cookies every time.
Why Red Velvet Cookies Are So Special
Red velvet is more than just a flavor; it’s an experience. These cookies combine the richness of cocoa with the tangy notes of cream cheese frosting. They’re visually stunning and taste just as good as they look. Plus, they’re easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookies
Cookie Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup (110g) |
| Vanilla bean paste (or extract) | 1 tsp |
| Caster sugar | 1 cup (220g) |
| Eggs (room temperature) | 2 |
| Sour cream or plain yogurt (full fat) | 1/4 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
| Red food coloring | 3/4 tbsp |
| Plain white flour | 2 cups (250g) |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 6 tbsp (75g) |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 5 oz (150g) |
| Vanilla bean paste (or extract) | 1 tsp |
| Powdered (icing) sugar | 2 1/4 cups (225g) |
Optional Decorations
| Decoration | Use |
|---|---|
| Red sprinkles | Add festive flair |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Station
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. For extra stability, use a dab of butter to hold the paper in place.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
- Use a mixer or handheld beater to cream the butter, vanilla, and caster sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes on high speed.
- Add the eggs, sour cream, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Beat until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
- Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cookies dense.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Drop heaped tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart to allow for spreading.
- Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently shape the cookies if needed.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes. They’re done when the tops spring back gently when touched.
- Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar together until fluffy and smooth. This should take about 5 minutes on high speed.
6. Frost and Decorate
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous dollop of frosting on each one.
- Top with red sprinkles for an extra festive touch, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cookies
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese ensure a smoother dough and frosting.
2. Choose the Right Food Coloring
Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant red without altering the consistency of the dough.
3. Don’t Overbake
Cookies continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. Take them out when the centers are just set to keep them soft and chewy.
4. Experiment with Toppings
Feel free to swap sprinkles for chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even edible glitter.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Variations to Try
1. Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
Turn these cookies into sandwich cookies by piping frosting between two cookies for a decadent treat.
2. Add a Surprise Filling
Place a dollop of cream cheese filling in the center of each cookie before baking for a gooey surprise.
3. Make It Gluten-Free
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Store the unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Frost them just before serving.
2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
3. What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can skip the food coloring for cocoa cookies or use beet juice as a natural alternative.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients. Make sure to bake in batches or use multiple baking sheets.
5. How do I keep the frosting from melting?
Ensure the cookies are completely cool before frosting. If it’s a hot day, refrigerate the cookies after frosting to keep the topping firm.
6. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
You can substitute mascarpone or make a simple buttercream frosting.
Why These Cookies Deserve a Spot in Your Kitchen
Red velvet cookies combine beauty, flavor, and simplicity. They’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or even just because. The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious tang, while the red hue makes them a showstopper on any dessert table.
Conclusion: Your Next Baking Adventure Awaits
Ready to create something unforgettable? With this recipe for Red Velvet Cookies, you’re set to impress your family, friends, and even yourself. The steps are simple, the ingredients are easy to find, and the results are absolutely delicious.
So grab your mixing bowl and preheat that oven—it’s time to bake some magic!
Red Velvet Cookies: A Decadent Treat for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Red Velvet Cookies bring the classic red velvet flavor to a portable, shareable treat. With a rich cocoa-infused dough, creamy cream cheese frosting, and optional festive sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for any celebration or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 cup (220g) caster sugar
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (full fat)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 3/4 tbsp red food coloring
- 2 cups (250g) plain white flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 6 tbsp (75g) unsalted butter, softened
- 5 oz (150g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
- 2 1/4 cups (225g) powdered sugar
- Optional Decorations:
- Red sprinkles for a festive touch
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Station:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, securing the paper with a dab of butter if necessary.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, vanilla, and caster sugar with a mixer on high speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, sour cream, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Beat until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
- Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Drop heaped tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
- Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently shape the cookies if needed.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the tops spring back gently when touched.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar together on high speed for about 5 minutes until fluffy and smooth.
- Frost and Decorate:
- Spread a generous dollop of frosting on each cooled cookie.
- Top with red sprinkles for a festive finish, if desired.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients are key for smooth dough and frosting.
- Gel food coloring works best for a vibrant red without altering the dough’s consistency.
- Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Frost just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American-Inspired