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 (measured properly); 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 cups (210g) powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 9 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a fun, festive treat that feels like a hug in cookie form, look no further than this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These chewy cookies bring together the rich, classic flavors of red velvet cake and the tangy sweetness of a silky cream cheese frosting, all baked fresh with zero chilling time required. Perfectly soft with just a hint of cocoa, vibrant red in every bite, and topped with dreamy frosting, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a truly irresistible dessert that will win hearts at any gathering or cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, light cream-colored batter that looks soft and thick. The batter has gentle swirls made by a white spatula partially dipped into it on the right side, showing a shiny, creamy texture. The background is a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create the iconic flavors and textures every fan of red velvet will adore. Each element is essential—from the cocoa powder adding subtle depth, to the cream cheese frosting lending that luscious finish.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structural foundation for tender, chewy cookies.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (¼ cup): Adds the signature chocolatey undertone without overpowering the red velvet flavor.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise perfectly and stay soft.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
Unsalted butter (½ cup): Provides richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and aids in the delightful chewy bite.
Large egg (1): Binds ingredients while adding tenderness.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Deepens the flavor, making every bite more aromatic.
Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Gives these cookies their iconic festive hue.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): The star of the frosting, lending a tangy creaminess.
Additional unsalted butter for frosting (¼ cup): Creates a smooth, luscious frosting texture.
Powdered sugar (1 ¾ cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency.
Pinch of salt for frosting: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor prominence.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lining a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat—this makes cleanup a breeze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple mixture sets the stage for your cookies’ texture and rich flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, cream your softened butter and granulated sugar until they’re light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it traps air, ensuring your cookies aren’t dense but delightfully chewy and tender.

Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring

Next, add the egg to your creamed mixture and mix again until fully incorporated. Then pour in your vanilla extract and vibrant red food coloring. Mix on medium speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down the bowl so everything blends evenly and that gorgeous red color is consistent throughout.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Lower your mixer speed to low and slowly add the dry ingredients. The dough will appear crumbly at first—that’s perfectly normal! Use your hands to gently bring it together into a smooth dough that holds its shape.

Step 5: Shape and Bake Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet. Roll each mound gently, then press down just a little to flatten. Bake for about 10 to 11 minutes until the cookies are puffed with edges set but still soft in the middle. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix at medium-high speed until your frosting is luxuriously smooth, perfect for spreading on your cooled cookies.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread the frosting generously on each cooled cookie with a small offset spatula. This is where the magic truly comes together—the creamy tang of the frosting pairs beautifully with the chewy, cocoa-tinged cookies. Feel free to add sprinkles or edible decorations right before the frosting sets for an extra festive touch.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Four red velvet cookies with one thick layer of smooth white cream cheese frosting spread on top of each cookie, sitting closely together on a round white plate with ridged edges, placed on a white marbled surface partly covered by a white cloth with red heart prints, soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like red and white sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder can elevate these cookies visually and add an extra layer of texture and flavor. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers also make for charming, unexpected touches when serving guests.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk is the ultimate cozy combo. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside warm spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the cream cheese frosting’s tang perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a decorative tiered tray for parties or stack them like mini cookie sandwiches for a show-stopping dessert platter. Wrapping a couple in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes for a thoughtful homemade gift that will be lovingly received.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay soft and fresh for up to 5 days. Keeping them covered tightly ensures the cream cheese frosting stays moist and the cookies don’t dry out.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully both before and after frosting. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container to keep for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring your cookies back to fresh-from-the-oven warmth, microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds just until soft but not melted. This quick step helps revive the cookie’s chewiness without compromising the frosting’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of food coloring for the red velvet cookies?

Absolutely! While gel food coloring works best for vibrant color without changing dough consistency, liquid food coloring can also be used; just expect a slightly less intense red shade. Natural food dyes like beet juice can work too but may alter flavor and color subtly.

Do these cookies need to be refrigerated because of the cream cheese frosting?

Since the cookies are stored at room temperature and consumed quickly, refrigeration isn’t necessary. However, if you expect to keep them longer than 5 days or live in a hot climate, refrigerate the cookies covered tightly to keep the frosting fresh.

Is this Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe difficult for beginners?

Not at all! The recipe is designed to be straightforward and beginner-friendly, with simple steps and common ingredients. Plus, you don’t need to chill the dough, which makes it perfect for those new to baking or short on time.

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with another frosting?

You could try a classic buttercream or whipped cream topping, but cream cheese frosting is traditional and provides the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet, chocolaty cookie, making it the best partner for this recipe.

What’s the secret to making these cookies soft and chewy?

The key is creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly, the right balance of wet to dry ingredients, and baking just until the edges set but the centers remain soft. Also, spreading the frosting generously helps lock in moisture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both special and effortless. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake up a batch that’s not just a cookie, but a celebration in every bite. Give it a try and watch these irresistible cookies become a beloved staple in your baking rotation—and your family’s hearts.