Back in my grandma’s kitchen, the scent of vanilla and cocoa meant one thingred velvet was coming. These Red Velvet Cookies Cream Cheese are pure comfort: soft, cake-like centers with creamy, tangy middles that melt the second they hit your tongue. They’ve made the rounds lately because, well, who doesn’t love two desserts rolled into one?
This batch starts with a rich, cocoa-kissed dough and gets filled with silky cream cheeselike your favorite cupcake stuffed into a cozy cookie shell. You don’t need fancy tools, and the dough holds up beautifully, even for make-ahead bakers. Pantry staples? Yep. A little chill time in the fridge? Totally worth it for that bakery-style bite.
I first made these for a holiday cookie swap in 2017, fresh off a marathon photoshoot week. As soon as I took a bite, I knew I’d bake them againmy neighbor called them “little velvet pillows.” I learned the key is softening the cream cheese just enough to swirl but not spill. After more than 8 years behind the lens and in the test kitchen, this one’s a classic that earns its spot every winter.
Thomas Baker
Red Velvet Cookies Cream Cheese Delight Recipe
These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are chewy, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious. This no chill cookie recipe is made completely from scratch and topped with a silky smooth cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the classic flavors of Red Velvet Cookies combined with a luscious cream cheese finish.
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter softened to room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 Tablespoon (15mL) red food coloring
4 ounces (113g) full fat block cream cheese softened to room temperature
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter softened to room temperature
1 and ¾ cup (210g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Method
Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and beat until combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
Mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring until evenly blended.
Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add the dry ingredients. Mix until combined, dough will be crumbly.
Use your hands to bring the dough together.
Scoop medium-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, roll smooth, and gently flatten.
Bake cookies for 10-11 minutes until puffed and edges set.
Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting, about 30 minutes.
For the cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Frost cooled cookies generously and serve.
Notes
For best results, ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before mixing. Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can substitute red food coloring with natural alternatives if desired.
Why You’ll Adore These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pure Comfort: These cookies channel the beloved flavors of classic red velvet cake into a delightful, easy-to-handle cookie.
No Chilling Needed: Forget the wait! The dough is ready to bake right after mixing, making them perfect for those spontaneous baking cravings.
Simple & Scratch-Made: Crafted from everyday pantry ingredients, these come together quickly without fuss, proving homemade is always best.
The Dreamy Frosting: A generous swirl of tangy, sweet cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies, making each bite utterly irresistible.
Key Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect Red Velvet Cookies
Creating these delightful cookies relies on a few straightforward pantry staples. Here’s what makes them shine:
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that crucial, subtle chocolate backbone that defines red velvet’s unique flavor profile.
Red food coloring: Essential for that vibrant, iconic crimson hue. Start with 1-2 teaspoons of liquid or gel food coloring, adding more as needed to achieve your desired shade.
Softened butter and cream cheese: For the best results in both cookies and frosting, ensure these are at room temperature. This is key for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Powdered sugar: The secret to a velvety smooth, silky cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Red Velvet Cookies from Scratch
These beautiful red velvet cookies, complete with their luscious cream cheese frosting, can be prepared and baked in about 45 minutes total (active prep time around 20-25 minutes). Here’s a detailed guide:
Prep the Oven & Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sturdy baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and consistent baking.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together your all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside.
Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This can take 2-3 minutes. Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and your chosen amount of red food coloring until fully combined and vibrantly colored.
Combine & Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough might appear crumbly at first. Finish by gently kneading it with your hands for a minute or two inside the bowl until it comes together into a cohesive dough.
Scoop, Shape & Bake: Scoop about 1.5-2 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll each portion into a smooth ball, then gently flatten it slightly with the palm of your hand. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake for 10–11 minutes. The cookies should be soft and puffy but set around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tip: Patience is key! Ensure your cookies are entirely cool before you even *think* about frosting them. Warm cookies will cause your beautiful cream cheese frosting to melt into a runny mess.
Step
What to Do
Why It Matters
1
Whisk dry ingredients
Ensures even distribution of leavening agents and cocoa, preventing bitter clumps or uneven rise.
2
Cream butter and sugar
Incorporates air, creating a light, fluffy base that’s crucial for tender, chewy cookies.
3
Use hands to form dough
The warmth from your hands helps bind the slightly crumbly dough, ensuring a uniform texture without overmixing.
4
Cool cookies completely before frosting
Prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and losing its smooth, stable consistency.
Whipping Up the Cream Cheese Frosting & Customizing Your Cookies
The velvety cream cheese frosting is truly the crowning glory of these cookiesit’s simple to make, wonderfully creamy, and perfectly balances the cookie’s sweetness. Here’s how to get it just right:
Room Temperature is a Must: Always use softened cream cheese and butter. Cold ingredients will result in a lumpy, difficult-to-spread frosting. Let them sit out for at least 30 minutes before you start mixing.
Don’t Skip the Salt: A tiny pinch of salt in your frosting isn’t just for flavor; it beautifully cuts through the sweetness and enhances the cream cheese tang.
Creative Additions: Feel free to customize! Swirl in a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate cream cheese frosting, or add a few extra drops of red food coloring for a matching festive flair. For extra texture, try sprinkling with mini chocolate chips or finely chopped pecans.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Guidelines
These cookies are wonderful for any occasion, whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself!
How to Serve: They pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or hot cocoa. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday dessert platters or homemade gift boxes.
Storage for Freshness: Unfrosted cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Once frosted, these cookies are best stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain frosting consistency and freshness.
Storage Method
Conditions
Shelf Life
Room temperature
Unfrosted, in an airtight container
Up to 3 days
Refrigerated
Frosted, in an airtight container
Up to 5 days
Freezer
Unfrosted, well-wrapped
Up to 2 months
Expert Insight: Mastering Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese
The addition of cream cheese in red velvet cookies not only enhances moisture but also contributes a subtle tang that balances the rich cocoa flavor. This pairing creates a tender, soft texture that elevates the classic red velvet experience into a uniquely indulgent treat.
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My Journey to Perfect Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese
After a few spirited baking sessions and a memorable mishap (like the time I accidentally forgot the cream cheese in the frosting mix!), I finally perfected these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese. Achieving that ideal balance of a tender, moist crumb and a rich, tangy frosting took patience, but this recipe now truly captures all those comforting, decadent flavors I envisioned from the very start.
FAQs ( Red Velvet Cookies Cream Cheese )
How do I prevent red velvet cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps control spreading. Use room temperature butter, not melted, and avoid overmixing to maintain the dough’s structure. Baking sheets lined with parchment paper also promote even baking and prevent excessive spreading.
Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before spreading for easier application. Whisk briefly to restore a smooth texture if it thickens.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for longer storage, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Can I use a different flour for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works best here to achieve the desired texture. Substituting with whole wheat or gluten-free flour may change the cookie’s consistency and spread, so adjustments to liquid and baking time might be needed.
How do I get the cream cheese frosting to spread easily?
Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing. If frosting feels too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream and whip until smooth and spreadable. Using a warm offset spatula also helps apply it neatly.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Red Velvet Cookies
These **Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese** truly come together with surprising ease, delivering that perfect soft, tender crumb and a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that feels like a special, homemade indulgence in every bite. I promise, these cookies are as approachable to make as they are spectacular to enjoyperfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive holiday baking spree.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! A tiny sprinkle of cinnamon can add wonderful warmth, or you can opt for natural food coloring if you prefer. Remember my go-to tip for storing these beauties: keep unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Once frosted, they’ll stay perfectly fresh and creamy when chilled in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Bake a batch, share them with your loved ones, and snap a picture of your cookie creations! I’d love to hear if your family had a cherished cookie recipe growing up. Share this recipe alongit’s pure comfort baked right into every bite and is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
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