What makes the perfect cookie even better? A tangy cream cheese frosting, of course. These homemade red velvet cookies are made with love and a hint of cocoa powder, then smothered in a rich frosting for an easy weeknight treat. Save this idea for a sweet family favorite to enjoy anytime.

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Cut in Half and Stacked on a Plate

Introduction

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. Red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting are a perfect example of how everyday ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The ease of preparation, combined with the vibrant color and rich flavors, makes these cookies a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please. The process is straightforward, and with a few simple steps, you can achieve bakery-quality results in the comfort of your own home.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of red velvet’s subtle cocoa flavor, the tang of cream cheese frosting, and the crunch of sugar creates a balanced taste experience. All the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this recipe accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: Despite the impressive presentation, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make. The dough comes together quickly, and the frosting requires just a few ingredients mixed to the right consistency.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The act of cutting the cookies in half and stacking them on a plate adds a touch of elegance, perfect for gatherings or as a gift. This simple presentation technique elevates the cookies from a casual snack to a visually appealing dessert.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for these red velvet cookies include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, butter, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and for the cream cheese frosting, cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using different types of sugar or cocoa powder, but the core components provide the distinctive flavor and color of red velvet. For those looking for dairy-free options, non-dairy butter and cream cheese alternatives can be used with good results.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the red food coloring and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
3. Step 3: Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets.
4. Step 4: For the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Once the cookies are cool, you can frost them. To achieve the stacked look, place a small dollop of frosting on the bottom of one cookie and attach another cookie to it, creating a sandwich. Cut in half and serve.

Handy Tips

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If using a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment for the best results.
• Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft to the touch when removed from the oven.
• For a more intense red color, use a high-quality red food coloring. A little goes a long way, so add it gradually until you achieve the desired color.

Heat Control

When baking the cookies, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them, especially if you’re unfamiliar with your oven’s temperature accuracy. The ideal baking time will depend on your oven, but generally, the cookies are done when the edges are set, and the centers are just slightly soft to the touch. If you prefer a chewier cookie, bake for 8-10 minutes. For a crisper cookie, bake for 12-14 minutes.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these cookies comes from the edges, which should be lightly crisped from baking. The centers remain soft, providing a nice textural contrast. To enhance the crunch, you can chill the dough before baking, which helps the cookies to retain their shape and bake up with a better texture. Additionally, a light sprinkle of granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking can add an extra crunchy element.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheets to prevent the cookies from spreading too much and to make cleanup easier.
• For the cream cheese frosting, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly with the butter and powdered sugar.

Storage Tips

• Unfrosted cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Frosted cookies are best consumed within 3 days but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to frost and serve.
• Reheating is not necessary, but if you prefer your cookies warm, you can place them in the microwave for a few seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cookies make a wonderful gift, especially when presented in an attractive way. Consider stacking them in a decorative jar or tin, tied with a ribbon. You can also place them in cellophane bags and tie the top with a twist tie and a gift tag. For a more rustic look, use brown paper bags or wrap them in parchment paper and twine. Adding a card with the recipe or a personal message can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper can give the cookies an interesting twist.
• Creative toppings: Before baking, sprinkle the tops with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of sugar, like brown sugar or turbinado sugar, for a slightly different flavor profile. You can also experiment with dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream cheese.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your cookies spread too much, they might be too warm when going into the oven. Try chilling the dough. If they’re too dense, you might have overmixed the dough.
• Ingredient replacements: When substituting ingredients, especially in the frosting, ensure you’re using similar consistency items to maintain the right texture.
• Over/undercooking signs: Overcooked cookies will be hard and possibly dark around the edges. Undercooked cookies will be too soft and possibly raw in the center. Adjust your baking time as needed based on your oven’s performance.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cookies before frosting for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and frost when ready.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe as stated is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour mixes as a substitute.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger batches. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven.

Conclusion

Making red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting is a fun and rewarding baking project that yields delicious and visually appealing results. With these simple steps and tips, you can create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special events. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and presentation ideas to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the joy of sharing your creations with others!