Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Valentine’s Day calls for something sweet, and these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect way to celebrate! Soft, vibrant red cookies with a hint of cocoa, topped with creamy frosting, make for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re making them for a romantic evening or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to add a special touch to your celebration.

What Are Red Velvet Cookies?

Red velvet cookies are a soft, chewy variation of the classic red velvet cake, flavored with cocoa and colored a vibrant red. They’re rich, tender, and perfectly complemented by tangy cream cheese frosting. These cookies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, thanks to their romantic hue and decadent flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Valentine’s Day: The bold red color and creamy frosting make these cookies festive and romantic.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a party or a gift, these cookies are always a hit!
• Customizable: Add sprinkles, heart-shaped candies, or a drizzle of chocolate to make them your own.

Ingredients

Cookies:

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

Frosting:

• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully combined and smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

1. Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Decorating the Cookies

1. Spread a generous layer of frosting on each cooled cookie using a butter knife or offset spatula.
2. Add festive decorations, such as sprinkles or heart-shaped candies, to finish.

Serving Suggestions

These Red Velvet Cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. Serve them on a decorative platter for a festive Valentine’s Day dessert table or package them in a gift box lined with tissue paper for a thoughtful treat.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing Instructions

• Unfrosted Cookies: Place baked cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Frosted Cookies: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
• Extra Decadent: Add white chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a rich twist.
• Natural Food Coloring: Use beetroot powder for a natural red hue.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder works best to achieve the classic red velvet flavor.

Can I pipe the frosting instead of spreading it?
Absolutely! Use a piping bag with a decorative tip for a polished look.

These Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are as delicious as they are beautiful. Perfectly soft and sweet, they’re sure to win hearts this holiday. Try them out, and don’t forget to share your creations—you might just start a new Valentine’s Day tradition!

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