Deliciously Soft Red Velvet Cookies Recipe

Are you in the mood for a treat that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at? These red velvet cookies are soft, chewy, and dressed up in that signature red hue that makes them stand out. Perfect for any occasion, they’re not just about looks; the flavor is a fantastic blend of cocoa and a hint of sweetness, with a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a sweet snack, these cookies will steal the show.

Let’s not forget the cream cheese frosting that takes these cookies to the next level! It’s smooth, tangy, and adds a rich layer of flavor. You might just find yourself craving these cookies more than the traditional red velvet cake!

The Perfect Red Velvet Cookie Recipe

Soft red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting on a wooden platter, accompanied by a glass of milk.

These red velvet cookies are soft, rich, and packed with flavor. The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives them a unique taste, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cookie’s rich flavor.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add Egg and Red Coloring: Beat in the egg, food coloring, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.