There’s something magical about red velvet its striking red hue, subtle cocoa flavor, and luxurious texture make it a dessert that’s hard to resist. Now, imagine all that decadence packed into a bite-sized cookie. Enter red velvet cake cookies a treat that combines the best of two worlds: the moist richness of red velvet cake and the comforting simplicity of cookies.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just exploring the joys of homemade treats, these recipes are here to brighten your kitchen. From classic styles to gluten-free options, you’re about to discover five irresistible ways to bake red velvet cake cookies that’ll leave you and your loved ones craving more.
Table of Contents
What Are Red Velvet Cake Cookies?
Red velvet cake cookies are exactly what they sound like a delightful fusion of red velvet cake and cookies. They’re soft, and chewy, and often feature the signature cocoa flavor of red velvet with a hint of tanginess, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk or cream cheese. Their vibrant red color and delectable toppings, such as cream cheese frosting or white chocolate chips, make them a standout on any dessert table.
These cookies are incredibly versatile, perfect for festive occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or even a cozy night in. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, whether you’re using a box mix or starting from scratch.
5 Delicious Red Velvet Cake Cookie Recipes to Try
Here’s where the fun begins. These five recipes range from classic approaches to creative twists, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Classic Red Velvet Cake Cookies
If you’re looking for a simple and quick recipe, this one’s for you. It uses a boxed red velvet cake mix, making it perfect for busy bakers.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of red velvet cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- Optional: cream cheese glaze or powdered sugar
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil in a large bowl until well blended.
- Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to space each cookie about two inches apart.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges become firm and slightly crisp. Let cool before adding a drizzle of cream cheese glaze.
Pro Tip: For fluffier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
2. Homemade Red Velvet Cake Cookies (No Box Mix)
For those who prefer baking from scratch, this recipe delivers the authentic red velvet flavor you love.
Ingredients Table:
| Wet Ingredients | Dry Ingredients |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup butter, softened | 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour |
| 3/4 cup granulated sugar | 2 tbsp cocoa powder |
| 1 large egg | 1/2 tsp baking soda |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract | 1/4 tsp salt |
| 1 tbsp red food coloring |
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients by whisking them together. Gradually add this to the wet mixture.
- Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes. Cool before serving.
Variation: Add white chocolate chips or drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgence.
3. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Red velvet crinkle cookies are as beautiful as they are tasty. The powdered sugar coating creates a stunning crinkle effect when baked.
Steps:
- Follow the classic recipe above but roll each dough ball in powdered sugar before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cookies cool completely before serving to maintain the crinkly appearance.
Pro Tip: Roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar for a thicker coating that enhances the crinkle effect.
4. Gluten Free Red Velvet Cake Cookies
Baking for someone with dietary restrictions? This recipe is gluten free yet equally rich and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour (1-to-1 replacement)
- 1 tsp xanthan gum (if not included in your gluten free flour blend)
- For a vegan alternative, use coconut oil or dairy-free butter.
Steps:
- You can replace the flour in any of the above recipes with gluten free flour.
- Use xanthan gum for structure if needed.
- Bake as usual, ensuring not to overmix the dough for a light and chewy texture.
Tip: Freeze leftover cookies to preserve their freshness for up to a month.
5. Stuffed Red Velvet Cake Cookies
Elevate your cookies by adding a hidden surprise inside!
Filling Ideas:
- Cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar
- Nutella
- Peanut butter
Steps:
- Scoop dough and flatten slightly.
- Place a dollop of your chosen filling in the center and fold the dough around it.
- Bake as directed, ensuring the cookies are sealed to prevent leaks.
Pro Tip: Freeze the filling in small portions before adding it to the dough for easier handling.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Red Velvet Cake Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilled dough holds its shape better, ensuring thick and chewy cookies.
- Use Gel Food Coloring: For vibrant red cookies, gel food coloring works better than liquid.
- Avoid Overbaking: Cookies continue to bake on the sheet after you take them out, so pull them when the edges are set, but the centers look slightly underdone.
- Store Properly: To maintain their softness, keep your cookies in an airtight container. To keep them moist, add a slice of bread to the container.
Variations and Customizations
- For Chocolate Lovers: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks for a richer taste.
- Holiday-Themed Cookies: Incorporate festive sprinkles or edible glitter for a seasonal touch.
- Healthier Options: You can replace some of the sugar with a natural alternative like honey or reduce it altogether for a less sweet version.
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour, erythritol, and sugar-free chocolate chips.
Conclusion
There’s something irresistible about red velvet cake cookies that makes them a must-try treat. Their rich, soft texture and vibrant color bring the classic red velvet flavor to life in a bite-sized cookie. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Baking these red velvet cake cookies allows you to experiment with flavors and textures, from simple classics to creative variations. Their easy preparation makes them perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros, offering an indulgent experience with every bite.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Visit my website to discover a variety of tasty ideas, from refreshing juices and savory pizzas to vibrant salads and indulgent cakes. There’s no shortage of options to satisfy your cravings, keep exploring and find your next favorite recipe today!
FAQ
1. What makes red velvet cookies red?
The red color comes from food coloring, often combined with cocoa and buttermilk, which enhance the deep red hue.
2. Can I freeze red velvet cake cookie dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls and set them on a baking sheet to chill in the freezer. After freezing, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen by adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
3. Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Flat cookies often happen when the dough is too warm. Always chill your dough before baking, especially if your kitchen is warm.
4. Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Absolutely! However, you’ll need more liquid food coloring to achieve the same intensity.