Hello, Kitchies! If there’s one dessert that feels like a hug in cookie form, it’s these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with that signature red velvet flavor—rich cocoa with a hint of tang. But the real showstopper? The luscious cream cheese filling nestled inside each cookie. One bite, and you’re hooked.
I first whipped these up on a whim for a friend’s birthday, wanting to combine two iconic desserts—red velvet cake and cream cheese frosting—into something portable and indulgent. Little did I know, they’d become an instant favorite. Now, these cookies are a regular request at potlucks, holidays, and honestly, just because.
What makes these cookies so special is the perfect balance of flavors. The slight cocoa bitterness of the red velvet pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the filling. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make but look (and taste!) like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Resume of the Recipe in Todd Wilbur’s Writing Style:
These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling take all the classic flavors of red velvet cake and transform them into rich, soft cookies stuffed with a creamy center. Each bite offers the perfect contrast of textures—chewy cookie meets velvety filling—for a dessert that’s as decadent as it is easy to make.
With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, this recipe will have you baking like a pro. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a little red velvet magic.
Exciting Story:
I’ll never forget the first time I made these for my family. It was Valentine’s Day, and I wanted to surprise them with something extra special. As soon as they bit into the cookies and discovered the creamy filling inside, it was love at first taste! My husband said, “This might be better than red velvet cake,” and the kids couldn’t get enough.
Now, these cookies are a tradition in our home. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just a random Tuesday, these little red velvet delights always bring smiles and a few requests for seconds.
Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling
Selling Points:
- Soft & Chewy: Perfect cookie texture with just the right amount of chewiness.
- Creamy Surprise: A luscious cream cheese filling that elevates every bite.
- Beautiful Presentation: The deep red color is stunning and perfect for special occasions.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and no fancy techniques required.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit for parties, holidays, or gifting.
Cuisine: American
Tips:
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before assembling the cookies.
- Even Filling: Use a small cookie scoop for consistent cream cheese portions.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies should look slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven; they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle white chocolate chips or crushed nuts on top before baking for added flair.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra decadence.
- Festive Colors: Swap the red food coloring for green during the holidays or pink for baby showers.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar in the recipe by 25%.
- Lower Fat: Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the butter and use low-fat cream cheese.
Closing in Todd Wilbur Style:
And there you have it—Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling, a cookie experience you won’t forget. Perfectly chewy, irresistibly creamy, and oh-so-delicious, these cookies are bound to steal the spotlight. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to check out more of our mouthwatering dessert recipes!
Relevant Categories:
- Cookies
- Holiday Recipes
- Desserts
- Party Treats
Tags:
- Red Velvet Cookies
- Cream Cheese Desserts
- Easy Baking
- Holiday Cookies
- Valentine’s Day Treats
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different filling?
Yes! Try Nutella, peanut butter, or even caramel for a fun twist. - Do I need to chill the cookie dough?
It’s optional but helps make the dough easier to handle. - Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze them baked or unbaked for up to 2 months. - How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Make sure to completely seal the edges of the cookie dough around the filling. - Can I make these smaller or larger?
Sure! Just adjust the baking time accordingly. - What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. - Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese filling. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, then assemble and bake when ready. - What kind of cocoa powder works best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is perfect for this recipe. - Can I make them without food coloring?
Of course! The cookies will taste the same, just without the red hue.
Let me know if you need any additional details or tweaks! 😊
PrintRed Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese
Description
If there’s one dessert that feels like a hug in cookie form, it’s these Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes. - Prepare the Cookie Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and food coloring until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. - Assemble the Cookies:
Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a frozen cream cheese ball in the center, then wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges completely. Roll into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. - Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. - Serve:
Enjoy the cookies warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.