Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are looking to impress with a dessert that perfectly blends rich flavors and a touch of elegance, this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies bring all the classic red velvet charm into a delightful, handheld treat, topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that just takes it to the next level. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this recipe combines a moist, cocoa-kissed cookie with the luxurious cream cheese frosting filling for a sweet bite that’s truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and success of any recipe. These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste, vibrant color, and luscious texture of this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

• 1 cup butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the cookies.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a soft yet slightly crisp edge.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together while lending moisture.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the iconic, vibrant red color synonymous with red velvet.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic undertone enhancing all flavors.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base structure for the cookies.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Adds that subtle chocolate twist essential to red velvet.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise lightly and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
• 8 oz cream cheese: Key for the rich and tangy frosting.
• 1/4 cup butter (for frosting): Makes the frosting smooth and creamy.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the frosting’s flavor with a sweet, mellow note.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your workspace and ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. This early prep makes the baking process smoother from start to finish.

Step 2: Create the cookie dough base

In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a creamy foundation that helps your cookies have that perfect tender crumb.

Step 3: Add wet ingredients

Into the butter and sugar mix, add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the red hue is uniform and the ingredients are fully combined, setting the stage for that classic red velvet look and taste.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures no lumps and helps distribute the cocoa and leavening agent evenly for consistent flavor and rise.

Step 5: Form the dough

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you achieve a soft dough. Be careful not to overmix, which can affect the cookie’s texture, aiming for a dough that’s easy to scoop but still holds together well.

Step 6: Scoop and shape

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly, either with a glass bottom or your fingers, to help them bake evenly and achieve the perfect cookie shape.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until they’re set but still soft in the middle. Timing is critical here—to maintain that classic soft cookie texture, avoid overbaking which can dry them out.

Step 8: Cool the cookies

Once out of the oven, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up slightly, making it easier to add the frosting without breaking.

Step 9: Make the cream cheese frosting

While the cookies cool, beat the cream cheese and 1/4 cup of butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is rich, creamy, and spreadable—perfect for sandwiching.

Step 10: Assemble the cookies

Spread a generous amount of frosting on the flat side of one cookie and press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat with all cookies for that irresistible red velvet and cream cheese combo in every bite.

Step 11: Enjoy your creation!

Serve these luscious Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering or keep them close for an indulgent sweet treat anytime you desire.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of red sanding sugar or a few mini chocolate chips on top of the frosting for a festive touch and a little extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a rich hot chocolate, enhancing the cozy, comforting experience of enjoying your red velvet treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking them on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in a decorative tin for gift giving. You might even add edible flowers or drizzle melted white chocolate to elevate their look for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve the freshness of the frosting and maintain the soft texture of the cookies.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. You can warm them slightly in a low oven or microwave to bring back that freshly-baked softness, but be gentle to avoid melting the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use less food coloring in this recipe?

Absolutely! The red food coloring gives red velvet its signature look, but you can adjust the amount to suit your preference. Just keep in mind that less coloring might result in a milder red hue.

Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, such as plant-based margarine and vegan cream cheese. The texture might be slightly different, but the cookies will still be delicious.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, these cookies can stay fresh for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting is best enjoyed within this time frame.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if I don’t have cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder is essential for the subtle chocolate flavor in this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. If you don’t have any, consider getting some as it truly defines the classic red velvet taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a soft, vibrant red velvet cookie filled with luscious cream cheese frosting. This Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful way to bring the magic of red velvet cake to your cookie jar. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these cookies will quickly become a beloved favorite. So go ahead—whip up a batch and watch them disappear almost as fast as you make them!

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