It’s amazing how one simple cookie can evoke so much joy. I remember experimenting in the kitchen, trying to capture the essence of red velvet in a soft, chewy treat. It took a few tries, but the moment I nailed the perfect balance of cocoa, tang, and sweetness? Pure magic. That’s how these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies became a family favorite.
The secret? Good quality cocoa and a touch of something acidic to activate that vibrant red color. It all began with a simple desire: to bake a cookie that was not only delicious but also visually stunning. The kids love how festive they look, especially around the holidays. My youngest always asks for Red Velvet Sugar Cookies when we have guests coming over.
Baking these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a warm, inviting aroma that fills the house, a sense of anticipation as you watch them bake, and the joy of sharing something made with love. It’s a simple way to connect, to slow down, and to appreciate the little things. For fellow home cooks seeking genuine, flavorful meals, these cookies are a wonderful place to start. They are perfect for sharing with family or bringing to a holiday gathering.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful treats. This Red Velvet Sugar Cookies recipe is all about quality ingredients.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for these soft sugar cookies. You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Red Velvet Sugar Cookies at your local bakeries.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps these cookies rise and become perfectly soft.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Adds a bit more lift for a light, airy texture.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The foundation of a rich, flavorful cookie. For the best flavor in your Red Velvet Sugar Cookies, I recommend using European-style butter with a higher fat content.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that signature red velvet flavor.
- 1 tsp red food coloring (gel is best): For that classic red hue. This Red Velvet Sugar Cookies proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.
- 1 tbsp buttermilk: Adds a slight tang that complements the cocoa.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: (Recipe Below)
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a tangy, creamy base for the frosting.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps the frosting hold its shape.
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
Trust me, this Red Velvet Sugar Cookies ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! My family loves when I add a pinch of sea salt to the frosting, it contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of our Red Velvet Sugar Cookies.
Let’s Create This Together!
Ready to bake? These step-by-step instructions will guide you in creating perfect Red Velvet Sugar Cookies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in Cocoa and Food Coloring: In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder, red food coloring, and buttermilk. Stir until smooth, then add to the butter mixture and mix well. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Red Velvet Sugar Cookies – learn from my experience!
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the red velvet cookies from spreading too thin. In my kitchen, this flavorful Red Velvet Sugar Cookies typically takes closer to two hours to chill.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Don’t be surprised if your Red Velvet Sugar Cookies dough is a little sticky; that’s normal!
- Bake: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cookies are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Frost and Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. Decorate as desired with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or other toppings. Your Red Velvet Sugar Cookies should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
While your Red Velvet Sugar Cookies is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
How We Love to Enjoy This!
We love these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies any time of year, but they’re especially perfect for holidays. They are visually stunning and a real treat to enjoy.
Often, we’ll serve these with a big glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa. The creamy milk complements the richness of the cookie. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Red Velvet Sugar Cookies appears with a pitcher of milk.
For a truly decadent experience, try pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cookie and cold ice cream is heavenly. We also enjoy them alongside some fresh berries for a bit of natural sweetness. This Red Velvet Sugar Cookies is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!
If you have any leftover cookies, crumble them up and use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. I sometimes even put them in a trifle! This is a great way to minimize waste and get creative in the kitchen. This flavorful Red Velvet Sugar Cookies reminds me of another family favorite, Halloween Crinkle Cookies, which also has a beautiful presentation and satisfying flavor.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some common questions I get about making these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies.
Does this Red Velvet Sugar Cookies really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The combination of rich cocoa and creamy frosting makes these cookies incredibly satisfying. They are dense and flavorful, so a couple of cookies is usually enough to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth. They’re definitely a family favorite for a reason.
What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
No problem! You can easily adjust the amount of cocoa powder to suit your family’s taste. Start with a smaller amount (like ½ tablespoon) and adjust from there. You can also use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, milder flavor.
How can I prepare this Red Velvet Sugar Cookies ahead for busy weeks?
You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the dough soften slightly before rolling and cutting. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use a different type of flour for these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
While I recommend all-purpose flour for the best results, you can experiment with other types of flour. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore sugar cookies.
What’s the best way to store these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting.
Can I make these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies without food coloring?
Yes, you can! The cookies won’t have the same vibrant red color, but they will still taste delicious. You can try using natural food colorings, such as beet juice, to achieve a slightly red hue. The taste won’t be impacted too much, and you will still have delicious red velvet cookies to enjoy!
How do I get my Red Velvet Sugar Cookies to be perfectly soft?
The key to soft sugar cookies is not to overbake them. Bake them until the edges are lightly golden, but the centers are still soft. Also, chilling the dough is essential, as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin. For another recipe to try, check out red velvet sugar cookies with cream cheese icing.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies aren’t just cookies; they are a symbol of love and connection, a sweet reminder of the joy of baking together. They support my family’s authentic meal goals by providing a treat that is both delicious and visually appealing.
My Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Flavor Secrets:
- Buttermilk Magic: Never skip the buttermilk! It adds a slight tang that perfectly complements the cocoa.
- Quality Cocoa: Use a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor.
- Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process. Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin.
Family-Tested Variations:
- Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing treat.
My youngest loves the chocolate chip version, while my husband prefers the nutty delight. I personally love the minty fresh option, especially around the holidays.
I hope you and your family enjoy these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies as much as we do. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and decorations to make them your own. Baking is all about having fun and creating memories. Red Velvet Sugar Cookies (and a mint version!) | The Vanilla Bean is another recipe I enjoyed while trying out all the versions.
Go ahead, fellow flavor seekers, and embark on this baking adventure. I have no doubt that you’ll create something truly special that your family will cherish. Happy baking! I have faith that you’re capable of creating your own authentic cooking success!
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Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with classic red velvet flavor. A festive treat perfect for holidays, parties, or any day you crave a delicious cookie!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, red food coloring, and buttermilk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips to the dough.