These Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies are soft, chewy, and oh-so-colorful! With just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Who can resist that vibrant red color? I love making these for special occasions or just to brighten up a regular day. They’re super easy and disappear fast, so be ready to share—or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake Mix: This is the cornerstone of your cookies. It gives them that lovely red color and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use a chocolate cake mix and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a unique twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal since you can control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan butter alternative to keep the cookies buttery without the milk.
Egg: The egg adds richness and binds the dough. For egg alternatives, try 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to make these cookies vegan.
Cream Cheese: You need this for the frosting to give it that classic tangy flavor. If you want a lighter option, use whipped cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but note that the taste may differ slightly.
What’s the Best Technique for Creamy Frosting?
Making the perfect cream cheese frosting is simple but requires a bit of finesse for a smooth finish. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to blend smoothly.
- Start beating the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Increase the speed as it incorporates.
- Finally, add vanilla extract and mix again until everything is well combined.
Test the frosting for sweetness and adjust the powdered sugar if needed. This little trick ensures a delicious, spreadable frosting that pairs perfectly with your cookies!
Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cookies:
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional Garnish:
- Sprinkles, crushed candy, or freeze-dried raspberry pieces
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to make. That includes 10 minutes for prep and baking time, plus some additional cooling and frosting time. Perfect for a quick treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the red velvet cake mix, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough is smooth and well-combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if you need to!
3. Scoop and Bake:
Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough and place it onto the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. You want the edges to be set but the centers to remain soft—so keep an eye on them!
4. Cool the Cookies:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Frosting:
While the cookies cool down, make your cream cheese frosting! In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
6. Assemble the Cookies:
Once the cookies are completely cooled, take one cookie and spread or pipe a dollop of frosting on top. Top it with another cookie to create a delicious sandwich. Repeat this with the remaining cookies.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish the top of the cookie sandwiches with sprinkles, crushed candy, or freeze-dried raspberry pieces for a festive touch. Enjoy your cookies fresh, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before munching for the best texture!
Enjoy your vibrant, soft, and creamy Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies! ✨🧁
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While the red velvet flavor is classic, you can substitute it with any cake mix you enjoy, like chocolate or vanilla. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and color of the cookies.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy them at their best, bring them to room temperature before serving or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. To do so, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to an airtight container. Frosting the cookies before freezing can cause it to lose its texture, so consider frosting them after thawing.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese in the Frosting?
If you’re looking for a different flavor or a dairy-free option, consider using whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary, so adjust the sweetness accordingly!
