Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted a red velvet cookie with cream cheese frosting? If not, you’re seriously missing out! These cookies are like little bites of heaven, soft and chewy with that signature red hue, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that just takes them over the top. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about them long after the last crumb is gone!
What makes this recipe stand out is how easy it is to whip up a batch. I mean, who doesn’t love a cookie that looks fancy but is super simple to make? Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re throwing a party, celebrating a holiday, or just treating yourself on a cozy night in. There’s something so special about the combination of flavors and that creamy frosting that just screams indulgence.
So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe for red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting. I promise, once you make them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Alright, let’s gather all the delicious ingredients you’ll need to make these scrumptious red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! I promise, you won’t need anything too fancy here—just some basic baking staples and a few special touches to create that signature red velvet flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (make sure it’s unsweetened for the right balance!)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (this is key for that perfect texture!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, your choice!)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (this is what gives those cookies their gorgeous hue!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
And just like that, you’re all set! Make sure your butter is nice and soft so it mixes in beautifully, and don’t skip out on that red food coloring—it’s what makes these cookies so iconic! Now, let’s get to baking!
How to Prepare Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making these fabulous red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! I’m so excited to share these steps with you, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Prepping the Dough
First things first, we need to mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything’s evenly mixed—this step is super important because it helps the cookies rise well! Now, in another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until it’s light and fluffy. Oh, the smell of that buttery goodness! Then, add in the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Once you’ve got your wet ingredients nice and creamy, gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture. I like to do this in thirds, just to keep things smooth and avoid any flour explosions. You want to end up with a thick, vibrant dough that’s just begging to be baked!
Baking the Cookies
Now that our dough is ready, it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps the cookies bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie because they’ll spread a little while baking. Seriously, don’t skip this step; I’ve learned the hard way! Bake these beauties in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look firm but the centers are still a tad soft—they’ll firm up as they cool!
Cooling and Frosting
Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This is such an exciting moment! They’re all warm and fragrant. Let them cool completely before frosting—trust me, you don’t want to melt that frosting into a gooey mess! While the cookies cool, you can whip up your cream cheese frosting. Once your cookies are cool and ready to go, generously spread that silky frosting on top. You can even get creative and swirl it around or add some sprinkles for that extra touch. Enjoy every bite of these delicious red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting—you’ve earned it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! First off, they’re incredibly quick to prepare—seriously, you can have a batch whipped up and baking in no time. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to cookie bliss.
Now, let’s talk about the taste. Oh wow, these cookies are soft and chewy, with that rich cocoa flavor perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting. It’s a match made in dessert heaven! Plus, they’re so visually striking with their vibrant red color, making them the star of any gathering or celebration. I mean, who wouldn’t be tempted by a plate of these beauties?
And don’t get me started on how versatile they are! Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or just want to treat yourself (because why not?), these cookies fit the bill perfectly. You can even customize the frosting or add fun toppings to make them uniquely yours. Trust me, once you serve these red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting, they’ll be the talk of the town!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s talk about some tips to make sure your red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting turn out absolutely perfect every single time! I’ve had my fair share of cookie adventures, and trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will save you from some common mishaps!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps everything blend together beautifully, creating that dreamy, smooth dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody wants that!
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
- Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. You want them to look set around the edges but still have a bit of softness in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool!
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Let those cookies cool completely before slathering on the cream cheese frosting. If they’re warm, the frosting will melt, and while it might taste amazing, it won’t look as pretty.
- Frosting Fun: Feel free to customize your cream cheese frosting! You can add a splash of vanilla, a hint of lemon zest, or even some cocoa powder to match the cookies. Get creative!
- Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers (which I doubt!), these cookies also freeze well—just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking up the most delightful red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! Happy baking, and enjoy every tasty moment!
Variations on Red Velvet Cookies
Oh, the fun doesn’t stop with just the classic red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! There are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on these treats, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite variations with you. Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen!
- Nutty Delight: Want to add a little crunch? Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful texture contrast. They pair beautifully with the soft cookies and creamy frosting!
- Chocolate Chip Twist: If you’re a chocolate lover like me, fold in some semi-sweet or white chocolate chips into the dough. The gooey chocolate bits will take these cookies to the next level!
- Cheesecake Stuffed: For an extra indulgent treat, try stuffing your cookies with a dollop of cheesecake filling before baking. Just make sure to seal the edges well so the filling doesn’t ooze out!
- Different Frosting Flavors: While cream cheese frosting is a classic, don’t be afraid to switch it up! Try a chocolate ganache or a tangy lemon frosting for a refreshing twist that complements the red velvet flavor.
- Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies: For a fun twist, make these cookies into sandwiches by adding a thicker layer of frosting between two cookies. It’s like a red velvet whoopie pie—total yum!
- Coconut Delight: Mix in some shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair! It adds a lovely chewiness and pairs surprisingly well with the cocoa.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic touch. This can give your cookies a little extra warmth and depth of flavor!
With these variations, you can mix and match to your heart’s content! Every time you make these red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting, it can feel like a new adventure. So grab your apron, get creative, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one of these delightful red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
So, there you have it! These cookies are a delightful treat, and while they do have some sugar and fat, they’re perfect for indulging every now and then. Enjoy them as a special dessert or share them with friends—the smiles they bring are totally worth it!
FAQ Section
Alright, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about these amazing red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! I want to make sure you’re all set to whip up a batch and enjoy every bite. So, here we go!
Can I use a different type of flour?
You can! If you want to experiment, you could try using whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind it might change the texture a bit. I usually stick with all-purpose for that classic cookie feel, but it’s fun to mix things up!
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
No worries! If you’re in a pinch, you could use beet juice for a natural alternative, but it might give you a different shade. Alternatively, you could skip the color altogether—just know that your cookies will be more cocoa-colored than red velvet!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, and you should be good to go. Just make sure the blend you choose is a 1:1 ratio substitute for best results.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep those delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and they’ll be good for up to two months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to wrap it well. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking!
What’s the best way to frost these cookies?
I recommend using a nice offset spatula for spreading that cream cheese frosting! It gives you great control and helps you create a lovely, smooth finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even pipe it on for a fancier look!
Can I add more cocoa powder for a chocolateier flavor?
Sure thing! Just be careful not to overdo it, or it might throw off the balance of the dough. I’d suggest adding an extra tablespoon or two and reducing the flour slightly to keep the texture just right.
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about making your own red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I’m always here to help you bake up some magic!

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Blissful Delight
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious red velvet cookies topped with creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugars until smooth.
- Add the egg, food coloring, and vanilla to the butter mixture.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cool before frosting.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: red velvet cookies, cream cheese frosting