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Close-up of a red velvet cookie with cream cheese frosting, topped with red velvet crumbs on parchment paper.

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

5 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 15 cookies
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 246
Soft and chewy Red Velvet Cookies topped with tangy Cream Cheese Frosting—a simple, festive treat perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup salted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring adjust for desired color
  • 1/2 tsp white distilled vinegar
  • 1 tbsp buttermilk at room temperature
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 4 oz full fat block cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup salted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar or more depending on preferred sweetness.
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Mix in the egg until well combined.
  • Add the vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring. Adjust the color to your preference.
  • Stir in the buttermilk.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Scoop dough into balls (about 1.5 oz each) and place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten them so its easier later on for the frosting.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies look puffy.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

  • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
  • Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cookie.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • Red Food Coloring: Gel food coloring works best for a vibrant red color without adding too much liquid. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust as needed.
  • Measuring Flour: For best results, fluff your flour with a spoon, scoop it into your measuring cup, and level it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make the cookies dry.
  • Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies. They’re done when the edges are set, and the centers look slightly soft. Overbaking can make them dry.
  • Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving Size
 
1 cookie
Amount per Serving
Calories
246
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
10
g
15
%
Saturated Fat
 
6
g
38
%
Trans Fat
 
0.4
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.5
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
3
g
Cholesterol
 
36
mg
12
%
Sodium
 
285
mg
12
%
Potassium
 
81
mg
2
%
Carbohydrates
 
36
g
12
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Sugar
 
22
g
24
%
Protein
 
4
g
8
%
Vitamin A
 
305
IU
6
%
Calcium
 
43
mg
4
%
Iron
 
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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