Name: Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies: 7 Reasons You'll Love Them
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: PT-490780H29M41S
Total time: 1 h 57 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces (226 g) cream cheese (softened); 1 cup (113 g) powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); ¼ cup (21 g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (1 stick, 113 g) unsalted butter (softened); ¾ cup (160 g) packed light brown sugar; ¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, plus more for rolling in; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 ½ tablespoons buttermilk (or regular milk); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful fusion of soft, chewy red velvet cookies and a luscious cheesecake filling. These cookies are not just visually stunning with their vibrant red color; they are also incredibly delicious, offering a rich, decadent taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, these cookies will impress your friends and family with their unique flavor combination and elegant appearance. Let’s dive into how to create these heavenly treats!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies. First, they are the perfect blend of two beloved desserts: red velvet cake and cheesecake. Second, they’re soft and chewy, making each bite a delightful experience. Third, the cheesecake filling adds a creamy surprise that elevates these cookies to a whole new level. Fourth, they are visually stunning, making them a great choice for gatherings. Fifth, the recipe is straightforward, making it easy to whip up a batch. Sixth, these cookies are versatile; you can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins. Lastly, they make for excellent gifts during the holidays! With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies are a popular choice among dessert lovers. (Note: They are categorized as a dessert and fit well within the American cuisine.)

Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies: 7 Reasons You'll Love Them - Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies - main visual representation

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

Gather these items:

8 ounces (226 g) cream cheese (softened)
1 cup (113 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
¼ cup (21 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick, 113 g) unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup (160 g) packed light brown sugar
¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, plus more for rolling in
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 ½ tablespoons buttermilk (or regular milk)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make cheesecake filling. Line a small cookie sheet or plate with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, with an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon teaspoons of the filling onto the prepared cookie sheet and freeze while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients. Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt together in a bowl.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar. Beat butter with an electric mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes; beat in brown sugar and white sugar until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add remaining wet ingredients. Add the egg into the butter mixture and beat to combine. Add the vanilla extract, milk, and food coloring and beat until uniformly colored.
Step 5: Add dry ingredients. Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture gradually with an electric mixer on low speed until combined. Scoop using a medium scoop (about 3 tablespoons) and place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and chill the dough for at least one hour before assembling.
Step 6: Preheat and prepare pans. Preheat the oven to 350°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
Step 7: Assemble the cookies. Flatten cookie ball with your hands. Scoop one cheesecake center and place in the center of the cookie dough and fold around cheesecake mixture making sure none of the cheesecake filling shows. Using your hands, roll into a ball and roll into granulated sugar. Place onto prepared cookie sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake and cool cookies. Bake in a preheated oven until edges are set and tops are puffy, about 12-14 minutes. Cool cookies on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to continue cooling.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Chill the dough for the best texture.
Can substitute buttermilk with regular milk.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.
For an extra flavor twist, add chocolate chips or pecans.

Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own but can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also serve them alongside a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving, or drizzle with white chocolate for an extra sweet finish.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds. This will help soften them back to their fresh-baked glory.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies?

The secret lies in properly chilling the dough. This helps the flavors meld and results in a chewy texture. Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results, and don’t skip the freezing step for the cheesecake filling!

Can I make Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to chill it for at least an hour before baking for the best texture. You can also freeze the assembled cookies before baking for a quick treat later.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Overmeasuring flour can lead to dry cookies. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the perfect consistency. Following the chilling instructions will also enhance the cookie’s texture.

Variations of Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies You Can Try

Get creative with your cookies! Consider adding crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or even a hint of peppermint extract for a festive twist. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as flavored cream cheese or even fruit preserves, to create unique flavor combinations. These variations can cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys these delightful treats.

For more dessert ideas, check out this page for inspiration. If you’re interested in other cookie recipes, visit this link for more options. You can also learn about baking tips to enhance your skills!