Introduction
Welcome to a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! These cookies are not just a feast for the eyes with their stunning deep red hue; they also offer a unique flavor experience with the rich undertones of cocoa and a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence on a cozy afternoon.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes of mixing.
- Add in the egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and a vibrant color has formed.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft, resulting in that delightful chewy texture.
- Once they are ready, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, and then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a luscious, spreadable consistency.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost the tops with the cream cheese frosting. Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!
Notes or Tips
- For a festive touch, consider adding edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the cream cheese frosting!
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best blending and texture in the frosting.
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Techniques
When baking cookies, the creaming method is essential. By beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, you’re incorporating air into the batter, which helps create a tender cookie texture. Additionally, allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set perfectly while maintaining a soft center. For the frosting, make sure to beat well to achieve that smooth consistency that spreads beautifully!
FAQ
- Can I use less food coloring? Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter shade, just reduce the amount of red food coloring.
- Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting? Yes! You can use store-bought frosting or a simple buttercream as an alternative.
- How do I keep the cookies soft? Ensure you don’t over-bake them and store them properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful combination of flavor and fun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who bites into them. They’re a beautiful treat that stands out, both in flavor and presentation. Happy baking!