Easy Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Soft, decadent red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting dance between indulgence and pure bliss.

These crimson-hued delights melt hearts with their rich, velvety texture.

Each cookie promises a luxurious experience that transforms an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

The deep red color hints at the delectable surprise waiting inside.

cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, smooth layer that perfectly complements the cookie’s subtle cocoa notes.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this simple yet impressive treat.

These cookies will become your new go-to dessert for special occasions or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese – Why Bake Them

• These red velvet cookies bring holiday cheer with their vibrant color and delightful cream cheese frosting, perfect for spreading joy during special celebrations.
• Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cookie enthusiasts.
• Soft, rich cookies with a velvety texture and tangy cream cheese topping guarantee smiles from kids and adults alike, making them a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
• Sprinkle options and adaptable decorating techniques allow personal creativity, letting you make each batch uniquely yours with minimal extra effort.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese

• All-Purpose Flour: The essential base that provides structure and texture for the red velvet cookies.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and contributes to the classic red velvet color.
• Butter: Creates a tender, rich foundation for the cookie dough and enhances overall flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a soft, chewy texture.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the cookie dough.

• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, classic background flavor to the cookies.
• Red Food Coloring: Gives the iconic deep red color characteristic of red velvet desserts.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and achieve a soft, light texture.

• Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a smooth, rich base for the creamy frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for the perfect consistency.
• Vanilla Extract, Salt: Balance and enhance the overall flavor of the cream cheese frosting.

Red Velvet Cookie Tools and Essentials

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for creaming butter and sugar, and whipping frosting to smooth consistency.
• Mixing Bowls: Needed for combining dry ingredients and mixing cookie dough.
• Baking Sheet: Crucial for baking cookies evenly and preventing sticking.
• Parchment Paper: Helps cookies bake uniformly and prevents burning.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients and ensuring no lumps.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for successful baking.
• Spatula: Helps scrape down sides of bowl and spread frosting smoothly.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: Creates uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking.

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F.

Cover your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Create Cookie Dough Magic

Grab your mixer and cream butter and sugar until they become light and fluffy.

Drop in the egg, vanilla extract, and a splash of red food coloring to give your cookies that vibrant red velvet look.

Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shape And Bake Delightful Treats

Scoop out dollops of dough and roll them into perfect little balls.

Gently press each ball down slightly on the prepared baking sheet.

Slide the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes.

Look for puffy cookies with set edges – that’s your signal they’re ready!

Step 4: Whip Up Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until silky smooth.

• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Blend until the frosting becomes creamy and irresistible.

Step 5: Decorate And Indulge

Once cookies have completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top.

For an extra touch of fun, sprinkle some decorative toppings before the frosting sets.

Enjoy your homemade red velvet masterpiece!

Tips for Baking Red Velvet Cookies

• Use gel food coloring for vibrant red without watering down the dough, ensuring rich, deep red velvet color.
• Refrigerate dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and maintain perfect cookie form.
• Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture to keep cookies tender and avoid tough, dense texture.
• Add powdered sugar gradually to cream cheese mixture, adjusting until spreadable but not runny.
• Mix a touch of espresso powder into cocoa for deeper, more complex chocolate undertones in red velvet cookies.

Red Velvet Cookie Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same soft texture and rich flavor.
• Vegan Chocolate Lovers' Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use flax egg instead of regular egg, and replace cream cheese frosting with dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
• Low-Sugar Red Velvet Treats: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce food coloring, and use sugar-free powdered sugar for frosting to create a healthier version.
• Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Cookies: Fold in dark chocolate chips into the dough before baking for an extra decadent chocolate experience with classic red velvet notes.

Ways to Present Red Velvet Cookies

• Sweet Romantic Date Night: Pair these decadent red velvet cookies with champagne or a light dessert wine for an intimate dessert experience perfect for couples.
• Festive Holiday Platter: Arrange cookies on a decorative tray with candy canes and chocolate truffles for a stunning Christmas dessert display that will impress guests.
• Afternoon Tea Delight: Serve alongside Earl Grey tea or hot cocoa for a luxurious mid-afternoon treat that feels elegant and indulgent.
• Kids' Dessert Party: Create a fun cookie decorating station where children can add their own sprinkles or drizzle extra frosting on top of these colorful cookies.

Storing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Cookies

• Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Scoop cookie dough balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bag. Store up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time.
• Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Warm cookies briefly in microwave for 10-15 seconds or in oven at 300F for 3-4 minutes to restore softness and bring out fresh-baked flavor.

FAQs

• How do I get the perfect red color in my cookies?

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid. Gel provides a more vibrant red without altering the dough’s consistency. Start with a small amount and add gradually until you reach the desired deep red color.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before scooping and baking.

• Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

This could happen if your butter was too soft or warm. Ensure butter is cool but still slightly pliable. If cookies spread too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.9 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 36 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting blend classic Southern charm with irresistible sweetness. Delicate cocoa-infused cookies pair perfectly with tangy cream cheese for a delightful dessert you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pinch of salt

Flavoring Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare workstation by heating oven to 350°F and lining baking sheet with parchment paper. Thoroughly combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and airy. Incorporate egg, vanilla extract, and vibrant red food coloring until well blended. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, creating a cohesive dough.
3. Shape cookie dough into uniform round balls, gently pressing each one to slightly flatten. Arrange cookies on prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate spacing between each.
4. Bake cookies for 10-11 minutes, watching for slight puffing and set edges. Remove from oven and allow complete cooling on wire rack.
5. Prepare cream cheese frosting by whipping cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually introduce powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until achieving a luxurious, creamy consistency.
6. Once cookies have reached room temperature, generously spread frosting across surface. Optional: Sprinkle decorative elements before frosting completely sets for added visual appeal.

Notes

• Customize color intensity by adjusting red food coloring for deeper or lighter red velvet shade.
• Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and create thicker, chewier cookies.
• Use room temperature ingredients like butter and egg to ensure smoother, more consistent dough texture.
• Store frosted cookies in refrigerator to maintain cream cheese frosting’s stability and prevent spoilage.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 203
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 95 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg