There’s something truly special about the vibrant red hue of these sugar cookies; they practically leap off the plate! As I rolled out the dough, the combination of buttery richness and a hint of cocoa wafted through my kitchen, sparking excitement for the delightful flavors to come. Perfect for those festive gatherings, whether it’s a romantic Valentine’s Day surprise or a cheerful Christmas cookie platter, these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to impress.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—easy enough for a weeknight baking session yet impressive enough to dazzle friends and family. Each bite offers a tender, chewy texture complemented by the creamy frosting, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. So, let’s dive into this easy baking adventure that brings joy and a splash of color to any occasion!
Why are Red Velvet Sugar Cookies a must-try?
Vibrant Color: The stunning red hue makes these cookies a feast for the eyes, perfect for festive occasions.
Simple Process: With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner bakers can create these beauties without stress.
Deliciously Chewy: Each cookie boasts a tender, chewy texture paired with the delightful tang of cream cheese frosting.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for both Valentine’s Day and Christmas, they shine in any dessert spread or as a gift.
Make-ahead Friendly: Bake in advance or freeze the dough for a last-minute treat that will impress at any gathering!
For more inspiration, be sure to check out our other festive cookie ideas!
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake deliciousness!
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure for these delightful red velvet sugar cookies.
- Cocoa Powder (natural) – Infuses the cookies with a rich chocolate flavor, but avoid Dutch processed for the best results.
- Fine Sea Salt – Enhances and balances the flavors in the dough.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures tenderness and flavor; let it reach room temperature for easy mixing.
- Cream Cheese – Adds necessary moisture and a delightful tang, ensuring these cookies are irresistibly soft.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while promoting browning, creating that perfect chewy texture.
- Large Egg – Binds all the ingredients together; remember to use it at room temperature for a smoother blend!
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.
- Red Gel Food Color – Essential for that iconic red hue—gel delivers vibrant color better than liquid!
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – The star ingredient for the frosting, giving it a creamy, tangy flavor perfectly paired with the cookies.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve the right consistency for spreading.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a touch of flavor to the frosting and complements the cookies beautifully.
Now, gather your ingredients and let’s get ready to create these stunning and tasty Red Velvet Sugar Cookies!
How to Make Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and fine sea salt. This combination will create the perfect foundation for your cookies, so set it aside until later.
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Cream Wet Ingredients: In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The texture should be light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate Egg and Flavorings: Add in the large egg, pure vanilla extract, and red gel food color. Mix until everything is combined and the striking red color is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. You want a soft dough that is smooth and slightly sticky.
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Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing excessive spreading during baking.
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Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
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Roll and Cut: Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness, typically about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into shapes using your favorite cookie cutters and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Chill Again: Pop the cookie sheets in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes. This extra chill helps maintain the beautiful shapes during baking.
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Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes. They should be soft in the center but firm to the touch. The edges may become slightly golden, but avoid overbaking for ultimate chewiness.
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Cool: After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Optional: Drizzle with additional cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and avoid drying out.
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Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, frosted Red Velvet Sugar Cookies can be kept in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw before frosting!
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Reheating: If you want to enjoy a warm cookie, briefly microwave the thawed cookies for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their soft, chewy texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive spirit without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out. You can also frost the cookies a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the chilled dough straight from the refrigerator or frozen dough and enjoy soft, chewy cookies that taste just as delicious as when they were freshly made!
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Variations
Indulge your creativity by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your tastes and preferences!
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Chocolate-Chip Twist: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a deliciously decadent combination of flavors. The melty chocolate will elevate the sweetness and provide a lovely texture contrast.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch in every bite. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie, creating a complex and satisfying treat.
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Flavored Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for vanilla or almond-flavored buttercream for an exciting twist. Each bite will bring new depth to the classic flavor profile, offering a refreshing change from the traditional.
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Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced note. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a cozy aroma to your kitchen while baking.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright and zesty flavor kick. The citrus brightness pairs exquisitely with the rich cocoa, creating a unique and refreshing experience.
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Red Velvet Swirl: Create a marbled effect by mixing in a little extra gel food color after rolling out the dough. This visually stunning variation will ensure your cookies stand out and look as vibrant as they taste!
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive enjoyers, allowing everyone to relish in the festive flavors.
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Peppermint Infusion: For a holiday twist, add crushed peppermint candies to the frosting or the cookie dough itself. The minty flavor adds a refreshing touch perfect for Valentine’s or Christmas gatherings.
Let your imagination run wild as you explore these variations, and make each batch uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
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Dough Temperature: Chill your dough adequately; this step prevents your cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they retain their beautiful shape.
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Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Perfect Baking Time: Check your cookies around the 16-minute mark. They should be soft in the center; overbaking results in a firmer texture.
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Even Spacing: Place cookie cutouts 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. This gives them room to spread while baking without merging into one another.
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Storage Secrets: Keep frosted Red Velvet Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks for best freshness.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
These deliciously vibrant cookies are not just a treat on their own; they create a festive atmosphere when paired with complementary elements!
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Classic Milk: The ultimate companion! A glass of cold milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their creamy frosting.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich, warm, and cozy, hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the tender texture of the cookies, perfect for a chilly day.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Top the cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold, rich and sweet.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, tangy fruits bring brightness to your dessert spread, cutting through the sweetness and adding a refreshing touch.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the chocolate notes in the cookies, creating a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites echo the cream cheese frosting flavor and add a rich, indulgent element to the dessert table.
Pairing these wonderful treats not only enhances the flavors but creates a memorable experience that will leave everyone craving more!
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose your cream cheese and butter carefully. They should be soft and at room temperature to ensure they mix well, leading to a smooth and creamy batter. When it comes to the egg, using one at room temperature not only helps with emulsification but also aids in creating that tender texture we all love.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
For sure! You can store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If they’re frosted, keep them in the fridge for about 1 week as well, but make sure they’re well-covered to prevent them from drying out. I often use decorative boxes to keep them fresh and charming!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze unfrosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before frosting. If you’d like, you could play around with flavors and frost them right after thawing!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very! If you notice your cookies are spreading more than usual, it could be due to warm dough. To troubleshoot, chill your dough longer next time or ensure your butter is not too soft. Keeping your cookie sheets chilled before baking can also help maintain shape. Remember, a well-chilled dough is key to achieving perfectly shaped cookies!
Are these cookies safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
Great question! These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies contain ingredients like cream cheese, butter, and sugar, which should not be fed to pets. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, always double-check labels—especially for gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free option, you can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and don’t hesitate to reach out for alternative ingredients to suit your needs!
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Certainly! Frosted cookies, when stored properly in an airtight container, can last for 2-3 weeks at room temperature. Just make sure to avoid exposing them to air, as this can dry them out. A cute tip: if you’re preparing for an event, make your cookies ahead of time so you’re stress-free on the big day!
Irresistible Red Velvet Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and fine sea salt. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the large egg, pure vanilla extract, and red gel food color. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into shapes and place on baking sheets.
- Refrigerate the cookie sheets for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the cookies for 16-18 minutes. They should be soft in the center.
- Let cookies cool on sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Frost cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting.