Red Velvet Cookies with Frosting (Print Version)

# 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