Name: Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour; ¼ cup (24g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 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

If you’re searching for a show-stopping treat that’s equal parts delicious and eye-catching, these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting will instantly become your new favorite. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with a deep red hue and gentle cocoa flavor, then getting that classic tang from a luscious cream cheese frosting on top. Seriously, it’s everything you love about red velvet cake packed into a portable cookie. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge in something spectacular at home, this recipe checks every box for flavor, texture, and pure fun!

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of pantry staples combine to create such dramatic flavor, texture, and that signature red color. Each ingredient in this lineup has a special role to play in building the unforgettable bite of these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

All-purpose flour: The structure behind your cookie; proper measuring ensures just the right chewy texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: A touch of chocolate adds depth without overpowering the red velvet vibe.
Baking soda: Lifts the dough so the cookies puff up beautifully as they bake.
Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the overall flavor profile.
Unsalted butter: Softened to create a rich, tender crumb and creamy base for the frosting.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps the cookies achieve those wonderfully crisp edges.
Egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture for chewy, soft cookies.
Vanilla extract: Smooths out the cocoa and enhances the beloved red velvet taste.
Red food coloring: Gives that iconic, bold, and beautiful color—gel-type is best for vibrancy!
Cream cheese: Full-fat block only for the dreamiest, tangiest frosting ever.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily into the frosting for a smooth finish that’s never gritty.
Pinch of salt (for frosting): Just a pinch brings the sweetness and tang into delicious balance.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make sure your cookies don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze. This simple step sets you up for golden, perfect cookies every time!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Combining everything thoroughly now ensures each cookie comes out flavorful and evenly textured.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Grab a large mixing bowl and use either a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat your softened butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about two to three minutes. This is your ticket to cookies that are soft and not the least bit dense.

Step 4: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring

Mix in the egg until fully blended, then add vanilla extract and a tablespoon of red food coloring. Scrape down the sides of your bowl to ensure every bit gets that gorgeous color. Continue mixing until it’s a vibrant, unified dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Turn your mixer to low and slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. It may look a bit crumbly at first, but that’s totally okay. Use your hands if needed to bring the dough together for soft, shapeable cookie dough.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion your dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll each mound into a smooth ball, then gently press down to flatten them slightly. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still a little soft. Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely (about 30 minutes).

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a fresh bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until it’s super smooth and creamy. Switch to low speed and add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until glossy, fluffy, and utterly swoon-worthy—trust me, you’ll want to lick the spoon!

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread each with a generous dollop of frosting using a small offset spatula. Add sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or let that silky swirl speak for itself. Each cookie becomes a little masterpiece.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Garnishing is the perfect way to add a finishing touch. Try a shower of festive sprinkles, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even some crushed freeze-dried raspberries for color and zing. Whatever you choose, a well-dressed plate of Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cappuccino, or even a mug of hot cocoa. On a dessert tray, they practically beg to sit beside strawberries, fresh raspberries, or light vanilla ice cream, balancing richness with a little freshness on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in a heart shape for Valentine’s Day, box them up for a gift, or stack and tie them with ribbon for party favors. For a crowd, build a vibrant tiered platter and watch them disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any cookies left (good luck!), store them tightly covered at room temperature for up to 5 days. The frosting stays wonderfully creamy, and the cookies actually get even softer as they sit.

Freezing

Your Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting freeze beautifully — either frosted or unfrosted. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw on the counter for a quick sweet fix!

Reheating

While these cookies are delicious straight from the container, if you crave that just-baked softness, very briefly microwave them (about 5-8 seconds). This brings back their chewy, tender texture and makes the frosting extra luscious.

FAQs

Can I use a different food coloring if I don’t have gel on hand?

Absolutely! While gel coloring gives the deepest red, liquid food coloring works, too—just use the same amount and mix well for even color.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped. Let it come to room temperature before scooping and baking for best results.

Is it possible to make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten free?

You can swap in a good-quality gluten free all-purpose flour blend; just make sure it’s a cup-for-cup substitute for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still totally scrumptious!

How do I keep the cream cheese frosting from getting too soft?

Beat the frosting just until smooth and fluffy, and if your kitchen is warm, chill it for a few minutes before spreading. Always frost cookies once they’re completely cool to avoid melting.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale up—just double all ingredients and bake in batches. Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a hit at parties and disappear fast, so having extras is always a good move.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a total winner. Every bite is a little celebration of flavor and nostalgia that’s sure to earn major rave reviews. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend to bake with you, and let the cookie magic begin!