If you love cookies and cake, you’re in for a treat! These Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies are soft, chewy, and simply delightful. With just a few easy ingredients, you can whip up a batch that tastes like a celebration in every bite. Whether you want to drizzle cream cheese frosting or add chocolate chips, this simple recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let’s get baking and make your new favorite cookie!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making them perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of red velvet and chocolate chips creates a rich and indulgent flavor that everyone loves.
- Customizable Toppings: With optional cream cheese frosting and powdered sugar, you can elevate these cookies for any occasion.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies have a soft and chewy center with slightly crisp edges, making each bite delightful.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The main ingredients for these cookies start with red velvet cake mix. This mix gives the cookies their rich color and flavor. Next, you need unsalted butter. Softening the butter helps it blend well with the mix. Eggs add moisture and help the cookies rise. Finally, a teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a sweet touch that makes the cookies taste amazing.
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (white or dark)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting, for drizzling (optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
For a fun twist, you can add chocolate chips. You can choose either white or dark chips. They add a nice contrast to the cookie's flavor. If you want to dress up your cookies, consider drizzling cream cheese frosting on top. This adds a sweet and creamy layer. Dusting with powdered sugar gives a nice finish that looks pretty. These optional additions make your cookies even more special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not stick.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine one box of red velvet cake mix with 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter.
4. Mix until the blend is smooth. You can use a spatula or a mixer for this step.
Mixing Ingredients
5. Next, add in two large eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
6. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
7. Now, gently fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. You can use white or dark chocolate chips.
Baking Process
8. Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
10. Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers stay soft.
11. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
12. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
If you want to add a special touch, drizzle cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookies. Dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Enjoy your soft and chewy red velvet cake mix cookies!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To ensure the perfect cookie texture, focus on mixing. Combine the cake mix and butter well. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create that soft and chewy cookie. When you add the eggs and vanilla, mix until smooth.
To know when cookies are done, look for the edges. They should be set and firm. The centers can remain soft. This means your cookies will stay chewy. Remember, they continue to bake on the sheet after you take them out.
Presentation Tips
Drizzling frosting adds flair to your cookies. Use a fork or piping bag for a neat look. Start in the middle and swirl outwards. This creates an eye-catching design.
Dusting with powdered sugar gives your cookies a sweet touch. Use a fine sieve for an even layer. Sprinkle lightly over the top after frosting. This makes the cookies look festive and tasty.
Storage Tips
For best practices in cookie storage, keep them in an airtight container. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Line the container with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
To keep cookies fresh, store them at room temperature. Avoid the fridge, as this can dry them out. If your cookies have frosting, consider refrigerating them. Just make sure to keep them covered.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading while baking.
- Use Quality Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can mix dark and white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
- Check for Doneness: Since these cookies are meant to be soft in the center, be careful not to overbake. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frosting flavors or colors to customize your cookies for special occasions, such as adding peppermint or orange zest.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change up the flavor of your red velvet cake mix cookies easily. One fun way is to swap out the red velvet cake mix for other flavors. Try chocolate or vanilla for a new twist. Each mix brings its own taste and color.
Adding different mix-ins can also enhance your cookies. You can toss in chopped nuts for crunch. Pecans or walnuts pair well with red velvet. Sprinkles add a festive touch too. Use fun colors to match any occasion. These small changes keep your cookies exciting and unique.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free red velvet cake mix. Many stores offer this now. It allows everyone to enjoy these cookies. Check the box for simple swaps.
For a vegan version, you can replace eggs and butter. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute. Two tablespoons of flaxseed and six tablespoons of water work well. For butter, try coconut oil or vegan butter. These swaps ensure your cookies stay soft and tasty. Enjoy making these treats for all diets!
Serving Suggestions
Pairing Ideas
What drinks go best with red velvet cake mix cookies? I love serving them with a cold glass of milk. The rich, creamy taste of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies. You can also try a hot cup of coffee or tea. Both drinks offer warmth and can enhance the flavors in every bite.
For those who enjoy something fancy, a glass of sparkling wine works well too. The bubbles add a fun twist to your cookie treat.
What desserts match a sweet table with these cookies? You could include a classic cheesecake or mini cupcakes. Their creamy textures pair nicely with the soft cookies. A berry tart adds a burst of fruitiness that contrasts the chocolate chips in the cookies.
Occasion Ideas
When should you serve red velvet cake mix cookies? They are perfect for holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Their bright red color makes them festive and fun. You can also serve them at birthday parties or family gatherings. Everyone loves a sweet treat!
How can you package these cookies as gifts? One creative way is to stack the cookies in a clear jar. Add a ribbon around the jar for a nice touch. You can also place them in a decorative box. This makes them easy to share or give to friends.
Consider adding a little note with the package. A simple message can make your gift more personal.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I freeze red velvet cake mix cookies? Yes, you can freeze them! Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature.
What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting? You can use any frosting you like. Try vanilla buttercream or chocolate ganache. For a lighter option, whipped cream works well too.
Recipe-Specific Questions
How do I make the cookies soft and chewy? To keep your cookies soft and chewy, do not overbake them. Bake until the edges are set and the centers look a bit undercooked. This helps them stay soft. Also, use softened butter for a rich texture.
Can I use milk instead of butter? No, milk cannot replace butter in this recipe. Butter adds fat and flavor that milk cannot match. Stick with the unsalted butter for the best results.
Storage and Shelf Life
How long do these cookies last? These cookies can last for about a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, freeze them.
Do I need to refrigerate cookies with frosting on top? Yes, if you add frosting, it’s best to refrigerate the cookies. This keeps the frosting fresh and safe to eat. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
In this article, I covered how to make delicious red velvet cookies. We explored key ingredients, mixing methods, and baking processes. Plus, I shared tips for texture, presentation, and storage.
With your new skills, you can create tasty variations, adjust for diets, and find great serving ideas for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats! They will surely make any event sweeter.
