
Experience the perfect blend of rich cocoa and velvety texture with these classic red velvet cookies. Each homemade cookie features a delicate crumb, deep crimson hue, and luxurious cream cheese frosting. Made completely from scratch using premium ingredients, these treats deliver authentic red velvet flavor with a chewy, bakery-style texture.
This recipe emerged from extensive kitchen testing to create the perfect homemade red velvet cookie. The aroma of fresh-baked cookies never fails to draw everyone to the kitchen, especially when it's time for frosting.
Key Ingredients
- All-purpose flour (2¼ cups): Unbleached flour provides ideal structure and texture
- Natural cocoa powder (3 tablespoons): Dutch-process cocoa creates rich chocolate notes
- Unsalted butter (1 cup): High-quality butter ensures proper spread and flavor
- Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Regular cane sugar for optimal sweetness
- Large eggs (2): Room temperature for proper incorporation
- Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Real vanilla enhances overall flavor
- Red gel food coloring (2 teaspoons): Professional-grade for vibrant color
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Provides proper lift and spread
- Fine sea salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances cocoa
Cream Cheese Frosting Components
- Full-fat cream cheese (8 ounces): Use brick-style for best results
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup): Softened for smooth blending
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth to frosting
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Pre-sift for smoothest texture
- Fine sea salt (⅛ teaspoon): Balances sweetness perfectly
Preparation Method
- Preparation:
- Set out ingredients to reach room temperature, particularly butter and eggs.
- Dry Mixture:
- Combine flour, cocoa, and leavening until well blended.
- Cream Base:
- Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Wet Ingredients:
- Add eggs individually, mixing well between each.
- Color Addition:
- Incorporate food coloring until evenly distributed.
- Final Mix:
- Add dry ingredients just until combined.
- Portioning:
- Use measured scoop for consistent sizing.

Serving Suggestions
Present cookies at room temperature for best flavor and texture. Arrange on decorative platters for special occasions. These cookies make an impressive addition to dessert tables and holiday celebrations.
Variations
- Sprinkle with crushed candy canes for holiday flair
- Mix in dark chocolate chips before baking
- Try almond or mint extract variations
Storage Guidelines
Keep frosted cookies in sealed containers with wax paper between layers. Best enjoyed within 5 days at room temperature. Unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to 2 months when properly wrapped and layered.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I bake these cookies in advance?
- Definitely! Store frosted cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → What’s the best food coloring to use?
- Gel food coloring works wonderfully since it creates a bold, vivid hue without making the dough too runny. AmeriColor is a fantastic option.
- → Why should butter and cream cheese be at room temperature?
- When soft, these ingredients blend much easier, giving the cookies a smooth texture while baking.
- → Do I have to add frosting?
- You don’t! They’re tasty without frosting, but the cream cheese makes them extra special and provides that essential red velvet cake vibe.
- → How can I tell when the cookies are done?
- Once the edges are firm and the tops slightly puffed (usually around 10-11 minutes), they’re ready. The centers may seem soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.