Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, offering the same vibrant color and rich flavor in a convenient, chewy cookie form. These cookies boast a soft, tender crumb and are often topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, making them absolutely irresistible. Perfect for any festive occasion or a cozy night at home, they are sure to impress friends and family alike with their stunning appearance and delectable taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Red Velvet Cookies recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is simply divine—rich cocoa powder and a hint of vanilla create a luxurious chocolate taste, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. These cookies are effortless to whip up, making them ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Plus, they fit seamlessly into a variety of diets, especially when using gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives, allowing everyone to enjoy these treats.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Red Velvet Cookies even more delightful, here are some handy tips and tricks:
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and develop flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to ensure soft, tender cookies.
- Use Gel Food Coloring: For the most vibrant red color, opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid. This prevents adding too much liquid to the dough.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother mixing process and better texture.
Make Ahead Tips
For those busy days, you can prep your Red Velvet Cookies ahead of time. The cookie dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then scoop and bake as directed.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Red Velvet Cookies with these variations:
- White Chocolate Chips: Add white chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Coconut Flakes: Stir in some shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- Different Frostings: Experiment with different frostings like vanilla buttercream or even a chocolate ganache.
How to Serve
To serve your Red Velvet Cookies, arrange them on a decorative platter and drizzle with additional cream cheese frosting for a beautiful presentation. Consider placing a few cookies in a small stack for an inviting look. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or edible glitter for that extra touch of elegance.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat, or enjoy them with a cup of rich coffee or a creamy latte. For a more festive touch, serve with a sweet dessert wine or a fruity cocktail that complements the chocolatey flavor of the cookies.
How to Store
To store leftover cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Equipment Needed
You will need basic baking tools for this recipe:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cookie scoop (optional, but helpful for uniform cookies)
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:
- Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of eggs, and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Nut-Free: Ensure your ingredients, particularly any chocolate or baking chips, are nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
Incorporate seasonal flavors by adding ingredients that complement the time of year:
- Fall: Mix in cinnamon and nutmeg for a spiced version.
- Winter: Add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
- Summer: Top with fresh berries for a refreshing touch.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process cocoa powder?
A: Yes, regular unsweetened cocoa powder works, but the flavor profile may be slightly different.
Q: How long should I bake the cookies?
A: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
Q: Can I skip the frosting?
A: Absolutely! These cookies are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds creaminess that enhances the flavor.
Red Velvet Cookies
Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, offering the same vibrant color and rich flavor in a convenient, chewy cookie form.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and red gel food coloring.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until 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.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
Nutrition Information
Yield
24Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 313Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 56mgSodium 155mgCarbohydrates 42gFiber 0gSugar 31gProtein 3g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your day. Experiment with variations, share them with loved ones, or keep them all to yourself—either way, you won’t be disappointed. Happy baking!