Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting: 5 Easy Steps

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting*! If you’ve ever had a craving for something sweet that’s not just your ordinary cookie, then you’ve found your new favorite treat. The moment you bite into one of these soft, chewy cookies, you’re met with that signature red velvet flavor—rich, buttery, and just a hint of cocoa. And then there’s the cream cheese frosting on top. Wow! It’s like a dreamy cloud of sweetness that just takes these cookies to a whole new level!

red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting - detail 1

I remember the first time I made these cookies for a friend’s birthday party. I was a little nervous, but once they came out of the oven, the smell was so intoxicating that I couldn’t help but sneak a bite. Trust me, they disappeared faster than I could keep up with! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a little something sweet, these red velvet cookies are guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!

Ingredients List

Get ready to gather your ingredients because we’re about to whip up some delicious red velvet cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed (make sure to press it into the measuring cup)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons red food coloring (I love using gel for a richer color)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder (just a hint to enhance that chocolate flavor!)

Make sure everything is at hand and ready to go because these cookies will come together in a flash! Happy baking!

How to Prepare Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting! It’s really straightforward, and I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping these up like a pro. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your cookies are ready to go in.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want to incorporate air for that lovely texture!
Add the wet ingredients: Now, crack those two large eggs right into the bowl, followed by the red food coloring and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until everything is smooth and well combined. Don’t be shy—get everything nice and incorporated!
Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This is super important because it ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want those cookies to be soft and tender!
Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them for spreading. You’ll want to fit about 12 cookies per sheet.
Bake: Pop your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the centers still look a bit soft. They’ll firm up as they cool!
Cool completely: Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is crucial because it allows them to set up properly before we frost them.

And there you have it! Once your cookies are completely cool, we’ll get to the best part—the cream cheese frosting! But for now, just enjoy the incredible aroma wafting through your kitchen. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
Irresistible flavor: The combination of red velvet and cream cheese frosting is a match made in dessert heaven.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress.
Beautiful presentation: The vibrant red color and creamy frosting make for a stunning treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Soft and chewy texture: These cookies are perfectly tender, making each bite a delightful experience.
Great for sharing: Bake a batch and watch them disappear at parties or gatherings—everyone will want one!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting turn out absolutely perfect? I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!

Don’t skip the chilling: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better and enhances the flavor!
Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are softened to room temperature. This helps everything blend together smoothly and creates that light, fluffy texture.
Measure flour correctly: When measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing it down, as too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
Watch your baking time: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be just set around the edges and still a tad soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
Let them cool: Be patient and let your cookies cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, giving you that beautiful finish!
Frosting consistency: When making your cream cheese frosting, make sure the cream cheese is softened. This keeps the frosting smooth and easy to spread. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delicious red velvet cookies that everyone will rave about. Happy baking!

Variations on Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Now that you’ve mastered the classic red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting, let’s have some fun with variations! Trust me, these ideas will take your cookies to new delicious heights and keep things exciting in the kitchen.

Nutty Delight: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Just fold them in before you drop the dough onto the baking sheet!
Chocolate Chip Twist: If you’re a chocoholic like me, try mixing in some chocolate chips—dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate! They add a wonderful richness that complements the red velvet beautifully.
Minty Fresh: For a refreshing twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to your cream cheese frosting. It gives a lovely minty flavor that pairs perfectly with the red velvet base!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a warm, cozy flavor profile. It’s especially nice around the holidays!
Different Frosting Flavors: Experiment with flavored frostings! Try a vanilla bean frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a citrus cream cheese frosting with a touch of orange or lemon zest for a zingy contrast.
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies: Make these cookies a bit more indulgent by sandwiching two cookies together with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting in the middle. Talk about a showstopper!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own unique version of red velvet cookies! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see what delicious combinations you come up with!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note on the nutritional information—while I’ve provided some details about the calories and other nutrients in these delicious red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting, please keep in mind that actual nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors like the type of butter, sugar, or even the flour can change the numbers a bit.

So, if you’re keeping an eye on your intake or tracking your meals, I recommend double-checking the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. Enjoy your baking, and remember that treats like these are all about balance and enjoyment!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of frosting besides cream cheese?
Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing for red velvet cookies, you can get creative. Try using vanilla buttercream, chocolate ganache, or even a whipped cream topping for a lighter option. Each will bring a unique twist to these delicious cookies!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread more than you’d like, it might be due to warm dough. Make sure to chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and results in a thicker cookie. Also, double-check your flour measurement; too little can contribute to spreading.

How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your red velvet cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve added frosting, it’s best to refrigerate them to prevent the frosting from becoming too soft. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before enjoying for the best texture!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! I love freezing these cookies for a rainy day. Just make sure they’re completely cooled and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature!

What’s the secret to getting that perfect red color?
Using gel food coloring instead of liquid coloring really helps achieve that vibrant red hue in your cookies. Gel coloring is more concentrated and won’t alter the dough’s consistency. Just remember to start with a small amount and add more until you get your desired shade! Learn more about gel food coloring here.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.