As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked Red Velvet Cookies wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. These cookies, with their vibrant red hue and soft, chewy texture, have always held a special place in my heart. The first time I tasted one, I was captivated by the subtle hint of cocoa and the creamy frosting that topped it. It felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Red Velvet Cookies recipe with you, perfect for any occasion and sure to delight your family and friends!

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 recipe combines the rich flavors of cocoa and vanilla with a striking red color, making them visually appealing and delicious. Traditionally, red velvet desserts are known for their soft, velvety texture, which is perfectly captured in these cookies. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates them, creating a sweet and tangy contrast that is simply irresistible. These cookies are not just a treat; they carry a sense of celebration and joy, often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookies

**Convenient**: Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for busy schedules.
**Delicious Taste**: A unique blend of cocoa and cream cheese that delights the palate.
**Family-Friendly**: Loved by kids and adults alike, making them a hit at gatherings.
**Versatile**: Great for any occasion, from casual snacks to festive celebrations.

Who It’s For

These Red Velvet Cookies are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert, health-conscious cooks who appreciate a treat in moderation, and food lovers who enjoy exploring globally inspired recipes. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, these cookies will surely impress everyone at the table.

When to Cook It

Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, including weeknight dinners when you want to treat your family, celebrations like birthdays and holidays, or simply as a sweet surprise for friends. They also make a delightful addition to cookie platters for potlucks or bake sales, bringing a pop of color and flavor to any event.

**2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour**: Provides the structure for the cookies. You can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
**1 tablespoon cocoa powder**: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor. Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.
**1 teaspoon baking soda**: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
**1/2 teaspoon salt**: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
**1 cup unsalted butter, softened**: Creates a rich, buttery flavor. You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
**1 1/2 cups granulated sugar**: Sweetens the cookies. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar.
**1 large egg**: Binds the ingredients together. A flax egg can be used as a vegan substitute.
**1 tablespoon red food coloring**: Gives the cookies their signature color. Natural beet juice can be a great alternative.
**1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Adds depth of flavor. Use pure vanilla for the best taste.
**1/2 cup cream cheese, softened**: Used for the frosting, providing a creamy texture. Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
**1 cup powdered sugar**: Sweetens the frosting. You can use powdered erythritol for a low-sugar alternative.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Cream the butter and sugar in another bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy.
Add the egg, food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Frost the cooled cookies with the cream cheese frosting, spreading it generously for that perfect finish.

**Stevia**: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for baking.
**Monk fruit**: Another natural sweetener that doesn’t raise blood sugar levels.
**Allulose**: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar without the calories.
**Avoid honey or maple syrup**: These natural sweeteners can spike blood sugar levels and are not recommended for diabetic-friendly recipes.

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Wire rack
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Chill the Dough: Many chefs recommend chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and pure vanilla extract. The better the ingredients, the richer the flavor of your Red Velvet Cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be soft in the center when you take them out; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding white chocolate chips or chopped 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 achieve that creamy, spreadable 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: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Frosting Tip: If frozen, frost the cookies after thawing to keep the frosting fresh and creamy.

Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Aim for just combined ingredients to keep them soft and chewy.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and incorrect measurements can affect the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). Baking at a lower temperature can result in flat cookies.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Transferring them too soon can cause them to break apart.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to lumpy frosting. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth consistency.

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

Q: Are Red Velvet Cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
It depends. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

Q: Do Red Velvet Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

Q: Can I make Red Velvet Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.

Q: Is it possible to reduce the sugar in Red Velvet Cookies?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit to lower the sugar content.

Red Velvet Cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavor, color, and joy. 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 let me know how they turned out, and don’t forget to share your baking adventures on social media!

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 more intense red color, add more food coloring.
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