There’s something truly enchanting about the vibrant red of Red Velvet Cookies coming out of the oven, their rich aroma enticing everyone in the house. As I stood there, spoon in one hand and whisk in the other, I realized this was going to be a treat unlike any other. With just one batch of these Easy No-Chill Red Velvet Cookies, you can create a delightful experience that feels like a gourmet dessert without the fuss of traditional baking.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; you can whip up these chewy cookies from scratch in no time, and that silky cream cheese frosting? A match made in cookie heaven! Perfect for impressing friends at a holiday gathering or satisfying a late-night sweet craving, these cookies bring both joy and ease to your baking routine. Plus, no chilling time means you’re mere minutes away from enjoying warm, delectable cookies that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why are Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: The magic of these cookies lies in their blend of cocoa and red velvet richness, perfectly complemented by the tangy cream cheese frosting.
No-Chill Convenience: Say goodbye to waiting! These no-chill cookies can be whipped up in a flash, making them ideal for spontaneous baking.
Beginner-Friendly: Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, ensuring success every time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies are versatile enough to impress any crowd.
Delightfully Chewy: The chewy texture combined with creamy frosting creates a delightful contrast that leaves everyone wanting more.
For additional cookie inspirations, feel free to explore other delicious options like cinnamon cream cheese cookies.
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
• The full measurements are in the recipe card below.
For Red Velvet Cookies
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and binding; be sure to measure properly for the best results.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds that signature chocolate flavor and enhances the red color of the cookies.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies their lift and chewy texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness, making every bite satisfying.
• Unsalted butter – Brings richness, flavor, and tenderness to the cookie dough; make sure it's softened to room temperature.
• Granulated sugar – Adds necessary sweetness and aids in browning for a mouthwatering look.
• Large egg – Binds all ingredients together and adds structure, ensuring perfect cookies.
• Vanilla extract – Introduces a warm flavor note that complements the cocoa perfectly.
• Red food coloring (gel preferred) – Gives these cookies their iconic red color; use gel for vibrant results.
For Cream Cheese Frosting
• Full fat cream cheese – Delivers creaminess and a delightful tang; remember to soften it before use.
• Unsalted butter – Enhances the richness of the frosting while helping with its smooth texture; also softened to room temperature.
• Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and creates that velvety smooth frosting consistency.
• Vanilla extract – Adds a lovely flavor that rounds out the frosting beautifully.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor of the frosting.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder; set this mixture aside to enhance the consistency of your cookie dough.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This crucial step takes about 2-3 minutes; don't skip it!
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Add Egg and Mix: Add the large egg to the butter-sugar mixture, then blend well. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
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Incorporate Flavorings: Now, mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the dough is an eye-catching, uniform red shade.
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Combine with Dry Ingredients: Next, reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. You want a crumbly dough that holds together but isn’t overly mixed.
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Shape the Dough: Bring the cookie dough together with your hands and roll it into smooth balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet, giving them a little space and gently flattening them a bit before baking for an appealing shape.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are set. The cookies will still look slightly soft in the middle—this is perfect!
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Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about 30 minutes.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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Beat Frosting Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy, showing off that classic velvety texture.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Decrease the mixer speed to low and add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until combined.
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Whip Until Smooth: Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes, ensuring the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
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Frost Cookies: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously onto each cooled cookie, and feel free to add any decorative touches you fancy while it’s still wet!
Optional: Sprinkle festive decorations on the frosting while it's still wet for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cookies
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measuring is crucial, especially for the flour, to achieve the perfect cookie consistency without dryness.
- Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough to keep your red velvet cookies chewy rather than cakey; just mix until combined.
- Cool Completely: Ensure cookies are entirely cool before frosting; applying frosting on warm cookies will cause it to melt.
- Use Gel Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue that won’t affect the dough’s consistency.
- Add Flavor Balance: A pinch of salt in the cream cheese frosting enhances all flavors, creating a well-rounded sweetness in each bite.
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations
There are countless ways to customize these delectable cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
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Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the egg and opt for dairy-free butter and cream cheese.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough for an extra chocolatey delight that elevates the flavor profile.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the cookies.
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Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese frosting.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dough for a surprisingly delightful warm spice that awakens the flavors.
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Decorative Toppings: While frosting is still wet, sprinkle crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or colorful sprinkles for a festive appearance that makes these cookies truly shine.
Feel free to experiment and create your own signature version; each bite can tell a new story!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious chewiness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in a covered container for up to a week; just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat, as this may melt the cream cheese frosting.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
These delightful cookies are just the beginning of a sweet journey. Let your imagination run wild as you create a beautifully cohesive dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: Tantalizing strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brighten up your plate and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
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Decadent Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the creamy frosting, wrapping you in a cozy embrace perfect for any occasion.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream balances the rich cookies, creating a delightful temperature and flavor contrast in every bite.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: A silky chocolate ganache makes for a luxurious dip, enhancing the chocolate notes without overshadowing the delicious red velvet flavor.
For a twist, try serving these cookies with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. Each option adds a different dimension, making an already beautiful treat even more special, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
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Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee complements the sweetness perfectly, cutting through the richness and making it an ideal pairing for an afternoon treat.
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Creamy Cheesecake: This pairing brings an elegant flair; the rich, tangy taste of cheesecake enhances the frosting's flavors, marrying gourmet elements effortlessly.
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the best results?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavors and textures, ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature—soft enough to cream easily but not melted. When it comes to your cream cheese, likewise, it should be softened for the smoothest frosting. Check that your red food coloring is gel-based for vibrant results without altering the cookie’s consistency.
How should I store my Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay wonderfully chewy and delicious! If you want them to last longer, refrigerate in a covered container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying, to retain their intended texture.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these cookies! First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature—this way, they’ll taste freshly baked when you bite into them!
What should I do if my cookies turn out cakey instead of chewy?
Very! Cakey cookies often result from overmixing the dough. To keep your Red Velvet Cookies chewy, mix until just combined—especially after adding the dry ingredients. Measuring your flour correctly is also key, so spoon it into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step before frosting, as this will help maintain their perfect texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Be mindful that these cookies contain common allergens, such as wheat and dairy. If you’re serving them to guests with allergies, warn them accordingly. For pet owners, be cautious as chocolate (from the cocoa powder) is toxic to dogs and other pets, so make sure any leftover cookies are out of paw's reach.
Easy Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder; set this mixture aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg to the butter-sugar mixture, then blend well.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the dough is a uniform red shade.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Bring the cookie dough together with your hands and roll it into smooth balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet, giving them space and gently flattening them a bit before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth.
- Decrease the mixer speed to low and add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until combined.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting generously onto each cooled cookie.
Nutrition
Notes
- Accurate measuring is crucial, especially for the flour, to achieve the perfect cookie consistency.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to keep your red velvet cookies chewy rather than cakey.
- Ensure cookies are entirely cool before frosting.
- Opt for gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue.
- A pinch of salt in the cream cheese frosting enhances all flavors.
