Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s rich, moist, and absolutely melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies are exactly what you need. They combine the classic charm of red velvet with a luscious, gooey butter filling, making every bite a decadent treat. These cookies bring together the perfect balance of a soft, cakey texture with a fudgy, buttery center that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them during the holidays, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies promise to steal the show.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic behind Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies lies in their unique texture and flavor profile. The use of cream cheese and butter in the dough creates a tender crumb, while the combination of cocoa powder and red food coloring gives that signature red velvet taste and vibrant hue. Baking powder adds just the right lift, keeping the cookies soft but not cakey, while the powdered sugar dusting adds a touch of sweetness and a delicate finish. This recipe balances richness and sweetness flawlessly, resulting in cookies that are indulgent yet perfectly portioned.

Shopping List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated white sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (or red gel color, to desired hue)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: To cream the butter and cream cheese smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
• Rubber spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold ingredients.
• Baking sheets: For baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Cooling rack: To cool cookies evenly without sogginess.
• Sifter: For dusting powdered sugar beautifully over the cookies.

From Start to Finish: Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and cocoa throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a rich base for the dough and helps with the gooey texture.

Step 4: Add the Egg, Vanilla, and Red Coloring

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until the mixture is fully combined and bright red. The egg binds the ingredients, while the vanilla enhances the flavor, and the food coloring gives the iconic red velvet look.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Scoop the dough with a tablespoon or cookie scoop onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. This underbaking is key to that gooey, buttery texture inside.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, sift powdered sugar over the tops for a beautiful, sweet finish.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Cream cheese: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative made from cashews or tofu.
• Butter: Replace with vegan margarine or coconut oil solidified at room temperature.
• Egg: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and chilled for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer.
• Granulated sugar: Confirm that your sugar is bone char free or use organic cane sugar.

Problems & Prevention

• Cookies spreading too much: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are not too soft or melted. Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if needed.
• Dry or crumbly cookies: Avoid overbaking. Remove cookies from the oven when edges are set but centers still look slightly underbaked.
• Flat cookies: Check your baking powder’s freshness. Expired baking powder can cause flat cookies.
• Uneven coloring: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant and consistent red color without altering the dough’s texture.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store your Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about an hour. For a fresh-baked feel, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Ask the Chef

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that natural cocoa powder is more acidic and might slightly alter the texture and flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa is smoother and less acidic, which is why it’s often preferred for red velvet recipes.

What’s the best way to get the red color vibrant without too much food coloring?

Gel food coloring is your best bet. It’s more concentrated than liquid food coloring, so you use less and still achieve a bright red hue without affecting the dough’s consistency.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to bake, scoop and bake as directed. This also helps control spreading during baking.

What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?

Cream cheese is essential for that gooey, rich texture in these cookies. However, you can substitute with mascarpone or a softened mild ricotta cheese for a slightly different but still delicious result.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Red Velvet Cake – For when you want the full cake experience.
• Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting – Perfect single-serving treats.
• Red Velvet Brownies – Fudgy and rich in every bite.
• Red Velvet Pancakes – A fun twist for breakfast or brunch.

That’s a Wrap

Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies bring together the best of both worlds: a soft, tender red velvet base with a luscious, buttery gooey center. The recipe is straightforward, approachable, and yields a batch of show-stopping cookies that are perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can master these delightful treats in their own kitchen. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply because you deserve a little indulgence, these cookies will not disappoint.

Give this recipe a try, and prepare to fall in love with every bite of these delectably gooey red velvet cookies!

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