When the first hint of red pops up in our holiday décor, my heart starts racing with excitement for all things festive—and nothing captures that spirit quite like these Luxurious Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. The moment you sink your teeth into the buttery crisp edge and delightfully chewy center, you’ll be transported to a world of indulgence, where every bite feels like a special celebration.
I found myself in a baking frenzy one afternoon, seeking a treat that would wow my friends during our holiday gathering. That’s when this recipe came to life, combining the rich, velvety flavor of classic red velvet with a creamy, tangy topping that’s simply irresistible. These cookies not only make a gorgeous presentation on any dessert platter but are also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy holiday kitchens.
So dust off your mixer and roll up your sleeves—let’s channel our inner pastry chef and make these stunning cookies that are bound to impress!
Why are Red Velvet Cookies a must-try?
Visual Appeal: The vibrant red color of these cookies makes them a stunning addition to any festive spread, attracting attention from guests and family alike.
Decadent Flavor: With a unique blend of cocoa and cream cheese, each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that delights the palate.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, allowing you to create bakery-quality cookies without any fuss or advanced skills.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, Valentine’s Day celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are a delightful way to brighten any occasion.
Impressive Finish: The luscious cream cheese frosting can easily be piped onto the cookies, making them as beautiful as they are delicious—ideal for impressing your guests at any gathering!
Red Velvet Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create something special with these Red Velvet Cookies!
For the Cookies
- Butter – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the cookie structure; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index.
- Brown Sugar – Offers deeper flavor and moisture, making cookies delightfully chewy; light brown sugar works as a suitable substitute.
- Red Gel Food Coloring – Gives the cookies their signature red velvet hue; opt for vegan food coloring if preferred.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; a flax egg is an excellent vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; use vanilla bean paste for a more robust taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure ingredient, providing stability; gluten-free flour may be substituted for those with dietary needs.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Contributes to the rich chocolate flavor; unsweetened cocoa powder can be used as an alternative.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cookies rise; always check for freshness to ensure optimal results.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy base of the frosting; opt for vegan cream cheese if desired.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; powdered erythritol is a lower-sugar alternative.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next steps in making these delightful Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Make Red Velvet Cookies
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Prepare Dough: Melt the butter in a microwave or saucepan until fully liquid, then let it cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled butter with granulated and brown sugars, red food coloring, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and creamy.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients for a perfect cookie texture.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet dough. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; your cookies will thank you for it!
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Chill Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading during baking.
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Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 180ºC (355ºF). Once preheated, arrange the chilled cookie balls on a baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake for 10-11 minutes until slightly puffy, then remove and let them cool on a wire rack.
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Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
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Decorate: Once the cookies have cooled completely, pipe the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Feel free to add colorful sprinkles for that festive touch!
Optional: Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Red Velvet Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This keeps the cream cheese frosting firm and delicious.
Freezer: These Red Velvet Cookies can be frozen for up to 30 days. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or gently reheat in the microwave for a soft, warm treat.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Crafting a delightful dessert spread is all about the right pairings, and these rich red velvet cookies are no exception!
- Decadent Hot Chocolate: The creamy, chocolatey warmth complements the cookies’ texture, making every bite even more indulgent. Perfect for chilly evenings!
- Chilled Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk balances out the sweetness and enhances the cookie experience—ideal for both kids and adults.
- Fresh Berries: Adding a burst of tartness, fresh raspberries or strawberries contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies and the richness of the frosting.
- Coffee: A bold, steaming cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate undertones in the cookies while providing a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop of creaminess on the side helps to balance the tangy cream cheese frosting while adding a delightful cold contrast.
- Sparkling Wine: For a special occasion, pair the cookies with a glass of bubbly, which cuts through the sweetness and adds an elegant touch to your dessert table.
- Cream Cheese Fruit Dip: A delightful dip brings in additional creaminess and fresh fruit flavors, enhancing the overall indulgence of your spread.
Incorporating these delightful pairings will elevate your holiday dessert experience, making any gathering unforgettable!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy holiday seasons! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps and chill the dough in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, you can bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To maintain their soft, chewy texture, make sure to let them cool completely before stacking them. Finally, frost the cookies with cream cheese frosting just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and delicious—your guests will be none the wiser that you prepped ahead!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cookies
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Chill Dough Properly: Ensure you chill the dough for at least an hour. This prevents spreading, yielding perfectly shaped Red Velvet Cookies.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. Remove them when they’re slightly puffy; they’ll firm up as they cool on the wire rack.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth frosting and well-combined cookie dough.
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Don’t Skimp on Mixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, while a gentle fold creates that soft, chewy center.
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Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to swap cream cheese frosting for whipped cream or add fun toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist!
Red Velvet Cookies Variations
Embrace your creativity and tailor these treats to your taste preferences with exciting twists and swaps!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and cream cheese with vegan cream cheese for a delightful dairy-free version. The result is just as rich and creamy!
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Flour Alternatives: Use almond flour for a nutty flavor or gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
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Chocolate Boost: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the dough for a decadent, gooey surprise in every bite.
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Spice it Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy depth that elevates this classic dessert.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a lovely textural contrast against the soft cookies. They add an earthy richness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Fruit Topping: Top each frosted cookie with a raspberry or a slice of fresh strawberry for a burst of juicy flavor and stunning presentation.
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Whipped Cream Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a light whipped cream to create a more delicate, airy contrast to the cookies.
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Holiday Flair: For festive colors, mix in green or gold edible glitter or swap cream cheese frosting for peppermint-flavored frosting during the holidays. Perfect for making the season extra special!
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, ensure that your butter is fresh and at room temperature before mixing. Look for eggs that are not past their expiration date and check your red gel food coloring for any signs of separation or clumping. A good rule of thumb is to use ingredients that are at their freshest—this elevates your cookies from good to great!
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you live in a warmer climate, keeping them in the fridge will extend their shelf life to about 5 days, while helping the cream cheese frosting to maintain its firmness and flavor. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent any drying out!
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Red Velvet Cookies, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out of the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, you can reheat them gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
No worries, it happens! If your cookies spread more than desired, it might be due to the dough not being chilled long enough. Make sure you chill the dough for at least an hour; this helps prevent spreading during baking. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can contribute to excess spreading as well.
Are these Red Velvet Cookies safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use vegan cream cheese in the frosting. A flax egg is a great egg replacement for vegans. If gluten is a concern, opt for a gluten-free flour blend to keep these cookies accessible for everyone at your gathering.
How long can I keep the cream cheese frosting before using it?
You can store leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply give it a good stir to bring back its smooth consistency. If it’s too thick after refrigeration, a few seconds in the microwave can loosen it up perfectly for piping!
Irresistible Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a microwave or saucepan until fully liquid, then let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled butter with granulated and brown sugars, red food coloring, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet dough. Stir gently until everything is just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 180ºC (355ºF). Arrange the chilled cookie balls on a baking sheet, spaced apart. Bake for 10-11 minutes until slightly puffy, then remove and let them cool on a wire rack.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, pipe the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Optionally add colorful sprinkles.