Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies combine the rich, tender texture of classic sugar cookies with the subtle cocoa flavor and striking red color of red velvet cake. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions or just a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 4 ounces (113.4 g) cream cheese (half a brick)
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (liquid)
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (32 g) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (21.5 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar on medium-low speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix on medium speed until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then add the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
5. Step 5: Mix on medium-low speed until the dough forms a stiff ball and pulls away cleanly from the bowl, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
6. Step 6: Roll the dough to about 3/16-inch thickness between two sheets of parchment paper for even thickness.
7. Step 7: Remove the top parchment sheet and cut out shapes using a 3-inch heart cookie cutter.
8. Step 8: Carefully peel the shapes from the bottom parchment and transfer them to your prepared baking sheets.
9. Step 9: Bake for 12 to 16 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still feel slightly soft.
10. Step 10: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with royal icing or your preferred icing.

Tips & Variations

• For consistent cookie thickness, use rolling pin rings or guides while rolling out the dough.
• If you don’t have red food coloring, try natural alternatives like beet juice, but note the color may be less vibrant.
• Consider swapping the royal icing for cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweet cookie.
• Store any leftover dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.

Storage

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and, if desired, refresh the frosting before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, regular granulated sugar is the standard used here. Avoid using coarse or powdered sugar as they will affect the texture of the dough.

What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?

Cream cheese adds moisture and tanginess. You can substitute with an equal amount of softened butter for a less tangy but still delicious cookie.

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 85 reviews

Delight in these festive Red Velvet Sugar Cookies, featuring a tender, cocoa-infused dough spiked with cream cheese and a vibrant red color. Perfectly soft with a slight crisp on the edges, these heart-shaped cookies are ideal for celebrations or gifting, topped with a smooth royal icing for an elegant finish.

• Author: rami
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies (3-inch shapes) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 4 ounces (113.4 g) cream cheese (half a brick)
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red liquid food coloring
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (32 g) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (21.5 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Frosting

• Royal icing (quantity as desired for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar on medium-low speed for about one minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Egg Yolk, Vanilla, and Food Coloring: Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring on medium speed until everything is fully combined and the dough starts to take on its signature vibrant red hue.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a silicone spatula. Add the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt to the wet ingredients.
5. Form the Dough: Mix on medium-low speed until the dough forms a stiff ball and pulls cleanly away from the sides of the bowl, about 30 seconds to one minute. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Flatten the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to an even thickness of 3/16 inch using rolling pin rings or measuring guides for precision.
7. Cut Shapes: Remove the top parchment sheet, then use a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the dough into shapes.
8. Transfer and Bake: Carefully peel each cut-out cookie from the bottom parchment layer and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 16 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft.
9. Cool and Frost: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating them with royal icing for a polished and festive look.

Notes

• Use cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Adjust red food coloring quantity to achieve your preferred shade of red.
• For even baking, use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and crisp edges.
• If dough becomes too sticky after refrigeration, dust your rolling surface lightly with flour.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.
• Royal icing can be customized with food coloring or piping tips for decorative effects.

Keywords: Red Velvet Cookies, Sugar Cookies, Valentine Cookies, Cream Cheese Cookies, Heart Shaped Cookies, Holiday Cookies