Desserts

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, bringing all the charm and flavor in a bite-sized treat. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a luxurious cream cheese frosting that elevates their appeal. Whether for a special occasion or just a little indulgence at home, these cookies are sure to capture hearts and taste buds alike.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 120 mg

Why Make This Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red hue, but they also offer a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The hint of cocoa brings depth, while the cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cookies. They are perfect for holidays, birthday parties, or a fun afternoon treat with friends. Plus, they are easy enough to whip up even on a busy day!

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that your cookies will rise perfectly and have a balanced flavor. Set the dry mixture aside.

Step 3: Creaming the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This process incorporates air into the batter, creating light and fluffy cookies.

Step 4: Adding Liquid Ingredients

Add 1 large egg to the creamed mixture, along with 1 tablespoon of red food coloring and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the color is vibrant.

Step 5: Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that soft, chewy texture.

Step 6: Scooping the Dough

Use a cookie scoop to portion out balls of dough, placing them onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading as they bake.

Step 7: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for edges that are firm but center remains soft. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Making the Frosting

For the cream cheese frosting, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Step 9: Frosting and Serving

Frost the cooled cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting and serve them on a colorful plate to showcase their beauty.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These cookies shine at parties and celebrations, but they also make a sweet treat for a cozy night in. Pair them with a tall glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.

How to Store Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply frost them after thawing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in your cookies.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without altering the dough’s consistency.
Don’t skip the chilling step before frosting—this helps the frosting set better on the cookie.

Delicious Variations

Swap the cream cheese frosting for a buttercream if you prefer a sweeter option.
For an extra indulgent treat, sprinkle chocolate chips into the cookie dough before baking.
Try adding nuts or white chocolate chunks for a different texture and flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! However, the texture might be denser, so consider adding a little more butter or an extra egg to compensate.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set while the centers appear soft. They will continue to bake on the sheet as they cool.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping.
What can I do if my frosting is too runny?
If your frosting is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until you achieve your desired consistency.
Can I omit the cocoa powder?
Yes, for a traditional red velvet cookie, you can skip the cocoa powder altogether. Just keep in mind, the flavor will be slightly different.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combine both taste and appearance that will impress all who try them. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that bring smiles and joy. So gather your ingredients and bake up a storm; you won’t regret trying these scrumptious cookies! Enjoy every delicious bite!