Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Delightful soft cookies infused with cocoa and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations.
Ingredients
For the cookies
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Ensure it's sifted for a lighter texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar This provides sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the cookies rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder Adds a rich cocoa flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened For creaminess.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring To achieve the vibrant hue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
For the cream cheese frosting
- 0.5 cups cream cheese, softened Use high-quality cream cheese.
- 2 cups powdered sugar For sweetness and texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the frosting flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk To reach desired frosting consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack.
Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
- Frost the cooled cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting.
Notes
For variations, consider folding in chocolate chips or adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dough for enhanced flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.