Name: Red Velvet Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp red food coloring; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp white vinegar; Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or cream cheese filling

Red Velvet Cookies are soft, rich, and vibrant treats that bring together the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a chewy, handheld form. With a hint of cocoa, a buttery texture, and that signature red color, these cookies are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just when I want something a little more indulgent. I like them plain, stuffed with cream cheese, or topped with white chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies have the soft and tender crumb of a red velvet cake, but with the ease and satisfaction of a cookie. The slight chocolate flavor paired with vanilla creates a balanced sweetness, and their striking red color makes them stand out on any dessert table. They’re easy to make, freeze well, and taste amazing straight from the oven or days later.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Red food coloring
Vanilla extract
White vinegar
Optional: white chocolate chips or cream cheese filling

directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, I cream the butter with both sugars until smooth and fluffy.
I add the egg, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring, mixing until well blended.
I gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
If I’m using chocolate chips, I fold them in at this point.
I scoop the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, a couple of inches apart.
I bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies. Prep time takes 15 minutes, and baking time is about 10–12 minutes per batch, so I usually have everything ready to serve in around 30–35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I stuff the cookies with cream cheese filling for a surprise center. I’ve also added chopped pecans or used dark chocolate chunks for a more intense chocolate hit. Around the holidays, I like pressing white chocolate drizzle or peppermint bits on top for a festive twist.

storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They stay soft and chewy. For longer storage, I freeze them—either baked or as dough balls—and bake or thaw as needed. If I want to warm them slightly, I microwave for 10 seconds before serving.

FAQs

What gives red velvet its flavor?

Red velvet has a mild chocolate base with hints of vanilla and a subtle tang from vinegar or buttermilk. I use a bit of cocoa powder and vinegar to mimic the traditional flavor.

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, but they won’t have that signature red color. The flavor stays the same, so I sometimes skip the coloring if I want a more natural look.

Do I need to chill the dough?

I don’t usually chill it, but if I want thicker cookies, I chill the dough for 30 minutes. It helps control the spread and deepens the flavor.

Can I use cream cheese in the dough?

Not in the dough itself, but I’ve used a small spoonful of sweetened cream cheese in the center of each cookie before baking for a filled version that tastes like red velvet cheesecake.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of the all-purpose flour. The texture stays soft and chewy, and the flavor is still great.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cookies are a simple yet stunning treat that always brings a little extra joy to the dessert table. I love how they’re soft, flavorful, and easy to customize with fillings or toppings. Whether for holidays, gifting, or a personal indulgence, they’re a beautiful and delicious way to enjoy red velvet in cookie form.