Description

Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies combine the best of two desserts: the soft chewiness of cookies and the rich, indulgent flavor of red velvet cupcakes. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, these cookies are the perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a visually stunning dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Red Velvet Cookies:

1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds subtle chocolate flavor.
1 tablespoon instant milk powder: Enhances the cookie’s richness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Ensures a soft, tender texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Assists in leavening.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the cookies moist.
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar: Adds chewiness and a hint of molasses.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon white vinegar: Activates the baking soda and deepens the red velvet flavor.
1–2 teaspoons red liquid-gel food coloring: Creates the iconic red velvet hue.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. Using parchment paper ensures the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, milk powder, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking not only combines the ingredients but also aerates the mixture for a lighter texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and food coloring. Mix until fully combined. The bright red color will deepen once the dry ingredients are incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until a thick, sticky cookie dough forms. Take care not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Use a large cookie scoop (about 3-4 tablespoons) to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave 3 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Bake in the center of the oven for 12-15 minutes. The cookies should puff up and have slightly golden edges, indicating they are perfectly baked.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on the rack prevents them from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and lump-free. Use a hand or stand mixer for best results.
Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Mix until the frosting is thick and creamy. If too soft, refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to firm up for easier spreading or piping.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cookies. For added decoration, crumble a leftover cookie and sprinkle the crumbs on top. Alternatively, use edible glitter or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant color without altering the dough’s consistency. Avoid liquid food coloring, which can throw off the moisture balance.
Chill Frosting if Necessary: If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for a firmer consistency that’s easier to work with.
Monitor Baking Time: Check the cookies around 12 minutes to prevent overbaking. Slightly underbaking ensures soft, chewy centers.