Soft Red Velvet Cookies (Printable Version)

Chewy red velvet cookies paired with creamy tangy filling, ideal for holidays or a sweet snack.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Cookies

01 - 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 2 teaspoons cornstarch
04 - 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 1 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar
12 - 2 teaspoons red food coloring (gel or liquid)

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

13 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
15 - 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
16 - 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar
17 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
18 - 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional)

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring and mix until combined.
03 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined without overmixing.
04 - Use a cookie scoop to portion 1-tablespoon dough balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Bake 7–9 minutes until tops are set but not browned. Cool completely on sheets before transferring to wire rack.
05 - Beat butter, shortening, and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, beating until fluffy. Adjust consistency with heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
06 - Spread or pipe frosting onto the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich with a second cookie. Repeat with remaining cookies and frosting.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Gel food coloring ensures a vibrant red color without altering dough texture. Accurate flour measurement prevents dense cookies. Vinegar reacts with baking soda to achieve a tender crumb. Optionally chill dough if too soft for easier handling.