Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful treat that brings the joyful flavors of a classic red velvet cake into a fun cookie format. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that elevates their taste to an unforgettable experience. Perfect for special occasions or as an everyday snack, they provide a touch of elegance that makes any moment feel special. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This red velvet cookies recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the vibrant color and festive appearance make them perfect for celebrations. Second, the combination of cocoa and vanilla creates a rich flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Third, the addition of cream cheese frosting for cookies adds a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly balances the sweetness. Fourth, they are easy to make, even for beginners. Fifth, you can enjoy them fresh or freeze the dough for later use, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Lastly, these cookies are suitable for vegetarians, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Gather these items:

3 cups (381 grams) all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1/4 cup (21 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 1/2 sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at cool room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red gel food coloring
4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature
4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (125 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium bowl sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to ensure even distribution of leavening and cocoa.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium high speed with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add eggs one at a time until combined, then incorporate the vanilla extract and red gel food coloring. Mix on low speed to combine.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients on low speed, mixing only until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour to 2 days to firm up.
Step 5: Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out chilled dough between parchment or plastic wrap to 1/4-inch thickness.
Step 6: Use a tall metal cookie cutter to cut shapes and place on baking sheets. Chill the cookie dough on sheets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 7: While chilling cookies, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Remove baking sheets and prick dough all over with the blunt end of a skewer or thermometer. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes or until cookies are set but not browned. Let cool 5 minutes on sheets, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until light and smooth. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar on low speed and beat until fluffy.
Step 10: Spread frosting on cooled cookies using a small offset spatula. Optionally decorate with sprinkles. Store in an airtight container single layered or separated by parchment paper for up to 1 day.
Step 11: Unfrosted cookies can be stored in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 1 month for convenience.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Keep these in mind:

Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color.
Chill the dough for better handling.
Store cookies in a cool, dry place.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.

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Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a delightful dessert at parties or as a sweet treat during the holidays. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider using them as a base for ice cream sandwiches or adding different frosting ideas like chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

To maintain their freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container. If you have unfrosted cookies, they can be kept in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 1 month, making them a convenient option for future cravings. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

What is red velvet cookie dough?

Red velvet cookie dough is a rich, colorful mixture that combines cocoa, flour, and red gel food coloring, creating a sweet treat reminiscent of red velvet cake.

Can I make red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

You can prepare the red velvet cookie dough recipe in advance and freeze it for later use, ensuring fresh cookies whenever you desire.

How do I avoid common mistakes with red velvet cookies?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your measurements are accurate and don’t overmix the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Following the step-by-step red velvet cookie recipe helps achieve the best results.

Variations of Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. You can also experiment with different frostings, like a chocolate cream cheese icing or a simple glaze. Additionally, try making a gluten-free red velvet cookies recipe by using gluten-free flour blends!

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For more delicious recipes, check out Healthy Sloppy Joes or Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts for a tasty treat!

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe: 5 Stars

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Author: Margaret
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these festive Red Velvet Cookies topped with smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Soft yet slightly chewy, these cookies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a convenient cookie form. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet treat with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups (381 grams) all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1/4 cup (21 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 1/2 sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at cool room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red gel food coloring
4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature
4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (125 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

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Instructions

In a medium bowl sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to ensure even distribution of leavening and cocoa.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium high speed with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time until combined, then incorporate the vanilla extract and red gel food coloring. Mix on low speed to combine.
Gradually add the dry ingredients on low speed, mixing only until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour to 2 days to firm up.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out chilled dough between parchment or plastic wrap to 1/4-inch thickness.
Use a tall metal cookie cutter to cut shapes and place on baking sheets. Chill the cookie dough on sheets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
While chilling cookies, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove baking sheets and prick dough all over with the blunt end of a skewer or thermometer. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes or until cookies are set but not browned. Let cool 5 minutes on sheets, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until light and smooth. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar on low speed and beat until fluffy.
Spread frosting on cooled cookies using a small offset spatula. Optionally decorate with sprinkles. Store in an airtight container single layered or separated by parchment paper for up to 1 day.
Unfrosted cookies can be stored in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 1 month for convenience.