Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies combine the classic rich flavor of red velvet cake with the soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies. These festive treats are perfect for holidays or any time you want a delightful cookie with a pop of color.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until well combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
5. Step 5: Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading.
6. Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For a cream cheese twist, drizzle or top the cooled cookies with a simple cream cheese glaze.
• Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without affecting the dough’s consistency.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for a subtle depth of flavor.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat slightly in a low oven if you prefer a warm cookie.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cocoa powder in this recipe?

You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder or natural cocoa powder, but note that Dutch-processed has less acidity and a milder flavor, which may slightly affect the color and taste. Adjust the amount if needed based on taste.

Why do my cookies spread too much when baking?

Overly soft butter, too much sugar, or not chilling the dough can cause excessive spreading. Make sure to use softened, not melted butter and consider chilling the dough before baking to maintain shape.

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 74 reviews

These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies combine the classic taste of red velvet cake with the chewiness of a sugar cookie. Infused with cocoa powder and vibrant red food coloring, these cookies are soft, slightly fudgy, and perfect for festive occasions or anytime you want a colorful, delicious treat.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
3. Cream wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration.
4. Add eggs and flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the color is evenly distributed.
5. Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding them gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
6. Form cookies: Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
7. Bake cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft, which gives the cookies a chewy, tender bite.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes to firm up, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

• For best results, soften butter at room temperature before starting.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender and prevent toughness.
• Space cookies adequately on the baking sheet to avoid them sticking together.
• Use gel or paste food coloring for a more vibrant red color without altering dough consistency.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: Red Velvet Cookies, Sugar Cookies, Festive Cookies, Cocoa Cookies, Soft Cookies, Homemade Cookies