Red velvet cookies combine the rich flavors of classic red velvet cake with the convenience and texture of a handheld dessert. These cookies are soft, chewy, and irresistibly vibrant, featuring hints of cocoa, vanilla, and a signature tang from cream cheese. Perfect for any occasion, they are a decadent treat that’s easy to make and loved by all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and Vibrant Appearance: The deep red color and creamy white accents make these cookies a showstopper, perfect for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Christmas.
Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges, they offer a delightful bite.
Rich Flavor Profile: The subtle cocoa flavor, balanced by a hint of vanilla and tangy cream cheese, creates a sophisticated yet comforting taste.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Treat: Whether for dessert, snacks, or gifting, these cookies adapt beautifully to any occasion.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Red food coloring
White chocolate chips or chunks

Directions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully incorporated. Adjust the food coloring for your desired shade of red.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Portion Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese to the center of each cookie for a delightful surprise.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense cocoa flavor.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based butter, egg replacer, and vegan white chocolate chips to cater to vegan preferences.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm the cookies in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their softness and enhance their flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?

Yes, gel food coloring works well and often provides a more vibrant color with less quantity.

2. What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?

You can substitute with milk or dark chocolate chips, or even leave them out for a more traditional red velvet flavor.

3. How can I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

5. Is there a way to make these cookies healthier?

You can reduce the sugar slightly or use whole wheat flour for a more wholesome version.

6. What’s the best substitute for cream cheese in the swirl variation?

Mascarpone or ricotta can be used as alternatives to cream cheese.

7. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Ensure your butter isn’t too soft, and consider chilling the dough before baking.

8. Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand, but ensure the butter and sugars are well creamed for the best texture.

9. What’s the purpose of cocoa powder in this recipe?

Cocoa powder adds the characteristic chocolatey undertone to the red velvet flavor.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients, but consider baking in batches to avoid overcrowding your oven.

Conclusion

Red velvet cookies are the perfect blend of elegance and comfort, offering a flavor that’s both nostalgic and unique. Their vibrant color and rich taste make them a standout treat for any gathering or a delightful indulgence at home. With simple ingredients and versatile options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Try these cookies today and enjoy a bite of red velvet bliss!

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