Red Velvet Cookies with Frosting (Print Version)

These red velvet cookies are topped with cream cheese frosting for the perfect mix of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese in every bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, properly measured
02 - ¼ cup (24g) unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
06 - 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
07 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
08 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
09 - 1 Tablespoon (15mL) red food coloring

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

10 - 4 ounces (113g) full fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
11 - ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
12 - 1 and ¾ cup (210g) powdered sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - pinch of salt

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ªC) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
03 - Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add the egg and beat until incorporated, scraping down the bowl as needed.
04 - Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring on medium speed. Use a spatula to ensure the color is evenly distributed, then beat again to combine thoroughly.
05 - Slowly mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until a crumbly dough forms. Use your hands to bring the dough together.
06 - Scoop dough using a medium cookie scoop, roll into smooth balls, and slightly flatten each one. Bake for 10-11 minutes until puffed and set around the edges. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
07 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, then beat for 2 minutes until perfectly smooth.
08 - Once cookies are completely cool, spread frosting on each cookie using an offset spatula. Add any desired sprinkles before the frosting sets.

# Notes:

01 - Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to 5 days
02 - Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature
03 - Gel food coloring is recommended, with AmeriColor being the preferred brand