Red velvet cookies – the name alone evokes a sense of indulgence and festivity. These vibrant crimson treats offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with a subtle chocolate note peeking through the buttery sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your baking journey, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to create a batch of irresistible red velvet cookies.
What Makes Red Velvet Cookies So Special?
The allure of red velvet lies in its unique flavor profile and captivating appearance. The subtle tang from the buttermilk, the delicate hint of cocoa, and the vibrant red hue create a truly unforgettable sensory experience. These cookies are perfect for holidays like Valentine’s Day and Christmas, but their irresistible charm makes them a delightful treat any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Red velvet cookie ingredients laid out on a table
Tools of the Trade
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Wire rack
Let’s Bake Some Cookies!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a cookie that’s soft and chewy.
Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined. Make sure the food coloring is fully incorporated for that signature red velvet hue.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, resulting in cookies that rise beautifully.
Step 5: Gradually Incorporate Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are just starting to crack.
Red velvet cookies baking in the oven
Step 7: Cool Completely
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Time for Frosting!
While the cookies are cooling, let’s whip up that delicious cream cheese frosting.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
The Grand Finale: Assembling Your Red Velvet Masterpieces
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
- If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle some red velvet cookie crumbs on top for an added touch of elegance.
Tips and Tricks for Cookie Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before you begin. This helps create a smoother, more homogenous batter and frosting.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
- Storage: Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQs About Red Velvet Cookies
Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?
A: Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is the classic pairing for red velvet cookies, you can get creative with other frostings like vanilla buttercream, chocolate ganache, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Q: I don’t have buttermilk. Can I make a substitute?
A: You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Q: Can I freeze red velvet cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just baked up a batch of mouthwatering red velvet cookies. The combination of soft, chewy texture, subtle chocolate flavor, and vibrant red color is sure to impress. Serve them at your next gathering, wrap them up as edible gifts, or simply enjoy them as a well-deserved treat.
If you’re looking for other delectable desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth, check out our recipes for Ischler Torte or Peppermint Cheesecake, and for that finishing touch, our guide on How to Make Icing for Cakes has got you covered.
Now go ahead, grab a cookie (or two!), and savor the moment. Happy baking!
