Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies offer a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, blending a hint of cocoa with vibrant red color for a festive treat. These soft, tender cookies are perfect for holidays or any time you want something special and colorful.

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 the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing 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 the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For a cream cheese twist, drizzle or sandwich the cookies with cream cheese frosting once cooled.
• Use gel-based red food coloring for a more intense color without adding too much liquid.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in a low oven if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural cocoa powder for this recipe?

Yes, natural cocoa powder works well, but it may slightly alter the color and flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a deeper color and milder taste.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

Red food coloring is key to achieving the classic red velvet appearance, but you can substitute with beet juice or powder for a natural option, though the color may be less vibrant.

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies Recipe

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4.7 from 133 reviews

Delightfully festive red velvet sugar cookies that combine the classic flavors of cocoa and vanilla with vibrant red coloring, resulting in soft, chewy treats perfect for any occasion.

• Author: nova
• 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 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. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully combined and the batter is vibrant red.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain cookie softness.
6. Form Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop 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 in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but centers remain soft, ensuring a chewy texture.
8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, preventing breakage and allowing them to set perfectly.

Notes

• For deeper red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• You can decorate with cream cheese frosting for added flavor.
• Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help maintain shape.

Keywords: red velvet sugar cookies, red velvet cookies, chocolate sugar cookies, soft cookies, holiday cookies, easy cookie recipe