Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of red velvet with the creamy goodness of cream cheese frosting. These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a feast for the eyes with their striking color, but every bite offers a luscious and sweet experience that is perfect for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon snack. With their soft, chewy texture and a delightful tang from the frosting, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 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 oz 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 for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside to bring together the dry elements.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a beautiful cream.
- Add in the egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until everything is thoroughly combined and the color is vibrant.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a soft and tender cookie.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft but not liquid. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To prepare the frosting, in a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth, reminiscent of fresh clouds.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and perfectly sweet.
- Once your cookies have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on each one, creating a layer of creamy perfection on top.
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest to the frosting. It adds a refreshing twist that complements the rich sweetness beautifully. Don’t forget to store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, make sure to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy; this will help to incorporate air, giving your cookies the perfect texture. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother dough and ensures even baking.
FAQ
- Can I use less food coloring? Yes, you can reduce the amount according to your preference; however, it will impact the color of your cookies.
- How should I store these cookies? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
- Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough or the frosted cookies. Just make sure they are sealed properly to avoid freezer burn.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering, or even just for a cozy night in. With their vibrant color and rich flavors, they are bound to impress everyone around you. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of baking these incredible cookies!