Frosted Red Velvet Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Frosted red velvet cookies combine the rich, buttery flavors of a classic red velvet cake with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie. The luscious cream cheese frosting adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang, making them irresistible. These cookies are ideal for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring
• ½ cup buttermilk

For the frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

6. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

9. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
10. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.

Step 4: Frost and Serve

11. Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top.
12. Optionally, sprinkle with red velvet cake crumbs or festive sprinkles.
13. Serve and enjoy!

Variations

• Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies: Add a small dollop of cream cheese in the center of the dough before baking for a surprise filling.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the frosted cookies for an elegant touch.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for extra texture.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 18 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months; thaw and frost before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these cookies extra chewy?

Using brown sugar and slightly underbaking the cookies helps achieve a chewy texture.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, but you may need more liquid food coloring to achieve the deep red color.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup milk with 1 ½ teaspoons vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

Yes, but homemade frosting gives a fresher, richer flavor.

Why did my cookies turn out cakey?

Overmixing the dough or using too much flour can make the cookies cakey instead of chewy.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, but chilling for 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better.

Can I make these cookies without frosting?

Absolutely! They’re delicious on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

How can I prevent the frosting from melting?

Ensure the cookies are fully cooled before frosting, and store them in a cool place.

Conclusion

Frosted red velvet cookies are the perfect blend of rich cocoa flavor and creamy sweetness. With their striking red color and irresistible frosting, they make an eye-catching treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just a sweet indulgence, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!

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