Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Delight in these irresistible Red Velvet Cookies topped with smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting. These soft and fluffy cookies feature a classic red velvet flavor, balanced with rich cocoa and a hint of vanilla, baked to perfection and generously coated with a luscious cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Leo
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Red Velvet Cookies
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (24g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon (15mL) red food coloring
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces (113g) full fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 and ¾ cup (210g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cookie removal and cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined, setting this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a handheld electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Flavoring: Add the room temperature egg to the creamed butter and sugar and continue beating until combined. Then mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring on medium speed, scraping down the bowl to ensure even color distribution.
- Combine Dry Mixture and Form Dough: Reduce the mixer speed to low, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Use your hands to gently bring the dough together into a cohesive mass.
- Shape Cookies: Using a medium cookie scoop (#50 size), portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll each portion into a smooth ball with your hands, then gently flatten slightly to prepare for baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake at 350ºF (177ºC) for 10 to 11 minutes or until the cookies are puffed and the edges are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on high speed using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Flavoring: Reduce mixer speed to low, add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 2 minutes until the frosting is silky and smooth.
- Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, use a small offset spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly onto each cookie. Add sprinkles or decorative toppings immediately if desired before the frosting sets.
- Storage: Store leftover cookies covered tightly at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all dairy ingredients and eggs are at room temperature for the best mixing results and texture.
- Red food coloring can be adjusted to preference to achieve deeper or lighter red hues.
- Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Cookies should be completely cool before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the frosting.
- Feel free to add sprinkles or edible decorations to the frosting immediately after spreading.
- Cookies freeze well; to maintain freshness and texture, thaw fully before serving.
Keywords: red velvet cookies, cream cheese frosting, holiday cookies, chocolate cookies, baked cookies, festive desserts