Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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From the moment I pulled these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting out of the oven, I knew they were something special. The deep red hue, the soft, cakey centers, and the way the frosting gently melted into the cracks of each cookie made my kitchen smell like a sweet, festive dream. Every time I whip up a batch, they vanish almost instantly—they have that irresistible bakery-style charm that screams “one more bite.”

Baking these cookies was a delight in itself. Mixing the batter felt like crafting a dessert masterpiece, especially once the vanilla and cocoa mingled into a silky base and that gorgeous red shade bloomed. I felt like a kid again, sneaking little tastes of dough and impatiently watching the oven timer. But it’s that final swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting on top that really elevates them. It adds a rich, luxurious layer that balances the gentle cocoa notes perfectly.

I love making these for holidays, birthdays, or just because it’s a Monday and I need a pick-me-up. They’re incredibly easy to share, and even easier to love. Whether you’re baking them for a crowd or saving the batch for yourself (no judgment!), these cookies offer a little moment of joy in every bite. And if you enjoy decadent sweets like cherry chocolate cheesecake or cozy up to Nutella French toast casserole, you’ll absolutely want to add these cookies to your collection.

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

These cookies are the perfect balance of indulgent and comforting. The cookie base has that classic red velvet flavor—subtly chocolaty with a buttery richness, while the soft and chewy texture gives every bite a satisfying feel. What truly sets them apart is the frosting: a silky, tangy cream cheese layer that adds depth and keeps them from being overly sweet. They’re eye-catching, festive, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, you’ll find joy in creating and devouring these. They’re easy to make, stunning to serve, and destined to impress.

Ingredients

Flour: The structure of any good cookie begins here. All-purpose flour gives these cookies the perfect texture—soft yet sturdy enough to hold that rich frosting.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is where the classic red velvet flavor comes to life. Just a hint of cocoa deepens the flavor and gives it that signature taste.

Baking Soda and Salt: Baking soda helps the cookies rise just a bit, giving them that lovely chewy texture. The salt brings out all the sweet and chocolatey notes.

Butter: Creamed with sugar, it adds richness and creates a soft, moist crumb. Make sure it’s softened to blend well with the other ingredients.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps it spread just enough in the oven.

Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a subtle molasses flavor that makes the cookies even more decadent.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds to the soft, chewy texture.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and complexity.

Red Food Coloring: This is what gives the cookies their vibrant hue. You can adjust the amount for a bolder or more muted color.

Cream Cheese: Essential for the frosting, its tangy richness balances the sweet cookie base beautifully.

Powdered Sugar: Blends with the cream cheese for a smooth, sweet frosting.

Butter (for Frosting): Adds creaminess and helps create a silky texture in the frosting.

Vanilla Extract (for Frosting): A final touch of flavor that ties the frosting together.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and helps prevent clumping later on.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps create that perfect cookie texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Flavorings

Crack in the egg and mix well. Then add vanilla extract and red food coloring. Mix until the batter is evenly colored.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies cool, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a firmer frosting finish.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Want to switch things up? You can easily personalize these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. If you’re looking for a slightly healthier option, try swapping out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The flavor deepens and the texture stays lovely. You can also use beet powder as a natural food coloring alternative. It offers a mild earthy taste and vibrant red color without any artificial dyes.

Lactose intolerant or dairy-free? Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cream cheese brand for the frosting. They still taste divine and nobody will even notice the switch.

For a chocolate boost, add white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks into the dough. And if you prefer a cookie sandwich style, double up and spread frosting between two cookies for an indulgent treat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These cookies are versatile and festive enough for any season. Serve them at holiday gatherings, Valentine’s Day parties, or as a special treat for birthdays. I love serving them slightly chilled so the frosting is firm with a creamy bite.

Pair them with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or even a dollop of whipped cream for added flair. You could also serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside treats like Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars or Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator if they are frosted. They’ll keep for up to 5 days and the flavor just gets better. For unfrosted cookies, room temperature storage works just fine.

If you want to make them ahead, the cookie dough can be scooped and frozen. Bake straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes. The frosting can be made a day or two in advance as well and kept chilled.

To enjoy warm, pop a cookie in the microwave for 8-10 seconds—just enough to soften without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting without food coloring?

Yes, you can! The food coloring is for visual appeal only. You can use beet powder for a natural red hue or skip it entirely. The flavor will still be fantastic.

Can I freeze Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely. I recommend freezing the cookies unfrosted. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a sealed bag. Thaw and frost before serving.

How do I keep the Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting from spreading too much?

Make sure the dough is chilled slightly before baking. Also, use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for consistent results.

Can I use store-bought frosting for Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can, but the homemade cream cheese frosting is truly worth the few extra minutes. It’s creamier, tangier, and just a better match for the red velvet flavor.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these cookies have won your heart, you’ll likely adore some of my other irresistible creations. Dive into the ultra-creamy layers of the Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting or try the uniquely festive Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These treats echo the charm of rich frosting, soft textures, and crowd-pleasing flavors. Perfect for creating a dessert spread that’s both gorgeous and delicious.

Don’t Forget to Save and Share!

Loved this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe? Pin it now to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. It’s perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or just treating yourself.

Sharing is caring! Send the link to friends who need a little sweet inspiration, post it on your social media, or print it out and pass it along. Whether you’re baking solo or sharing a batch, this recipe is meant to spread smiles.

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