There’s something undeniably enchanting about the vibrant hue of red velvet cookies. As I first pulled a batch from the oven, the warm aroma of cocoa and butter filled my kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. These cookies are not just a treat; they evoke memories of family gatherings and celebrations. The soft, chewy texture paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting creates a delightful contrast that dances on your palate. Red velvet cookies are a perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, making them a must-try for any home cook looking to add a splash of color and flavor to their dessert table.

What is Red Velvet Cookies?

Red velvet cookies are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, originating from the Southern United States. This vibrant dessert is characterized by its rich red color, a hint of cocoa, and a creamy frosting that adds a luscious finish. The combination of flavors and textures makes these cookies a favorite among many. Traditionally, red velvet recipes are associated with celebrations and special occasions, often served at weddings and holidays. The cookies embody a sense of joy and festivity, making them a perfect treat for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookies

Convenience: Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for busy schedules.
Taste: A delightful blend of cocoa and cream cheese that satisfies sweet cravings.
Health Benefits: Made with simple ingredients, these cookies can be adapted for various dietary needs.
Family Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the fun color and delicious flavor.

Who It’s For

Red velvet cookies are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert option, health-conscious cooks who want to indulge without guilt, and food lovers who appreciate a unique twist on traditional flavors. Whether you’re baking for a school event or a cozy family night, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

When to Cook It

These cookies are perfect for various occasions, including weeknight dinners, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. Their vibrant color and delicious taste make them a festive addition to any dessert table.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (adds a subtle chocolate flavor)
1 teaspoon baking soda (helps the cookies rise)
1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances the sweetness)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (provides richness and moisture)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (can use coconut sugar for a healthier option)
1 large egg (binds the ingredients together)
1 tablespoon red food coloring (gives the cookies their signature color)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for the frosting, adds creaminess)
1 cup powdered sugar (sweetens the frosting)

Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Shape the cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Frost the cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top.

Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, great for baking.
Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without calories.
Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that behaves like sugar in baking.

It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can still raise blood sugar levels significantly.

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
Wire rack for cooling

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Many chefs recommend using room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter, which helps achieve that perfect chewy texture in your red velvet cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it gentle!
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Some chefs suggest adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the balance with the cream cheese frosting.
Frosting Tip: For a smoother frosting, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help avoid lumps and create a creamy consistency.

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to two weeks. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to one week. Re-whip before using.

Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to a lumpy batter. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth and well-mixed dough.
Overbaking: Baking the cookies too long can result in dry, hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can affect the texture and flavor. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
Ignoring the Dough Consistency: If the dough seems too sticky, it may need a bit more flour. Adjusting the consistency can help achieve the perfect cookie texture.

Q: Can I use a different frosting for my Red Velvet Cookies?
Yes, you can use various frostings like chocolate or vanilla buttercream if you prefer a different flavor.

Q: Are Red Velvet Cookies suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Red Velvet Cookies recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients aside from dairy.

Q: Can I make Red Velvet Cookies without food coloring?
It depends; while the food coloring gives the cookies their signature red hue, you can omit it for a chocolate cookie version, but it won’t have the same visual appeal.

Q: How long do Red Velvet Cookies stay fresh?
Yes, when stored in an airtight container, Red Velvet Cookies can stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature.

Q: Can I freeze Red Velvet Cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead treat!

Red velvet cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavor and color that can brighten any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful cookies with your loved ones as much as I do. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below to share your experience or any tips you have! Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow baking enthusiasts who would love to add a splash of red to their dessert table!

Red Velvet Cookies

Author: Goldie Clark
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously soft and chewy red velvet cookies with a hint of cocoa and cream cheese frosting.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Frost the cooled cookies with the cream cheese frosting.

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Notes

For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Red Velvet Cookies, Red Velvet Cookies Recipe