Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy cookie that’s both rich and buttery, dressed in a stunning red hue. That’s what you get with Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies—an explosion of flavor and texture that makes them totally irresistible. The moment they come out of the oven, your kitchen fills with an aroma so sweet it’ll have you doing a happy dance like no one’s watching.
These little beauties have been a staple at family gatherings and holiday parties, often stealing the spotlight from all other desserts. Each time I bake these cookies, I’m reminded of my Aunt Gladys’ annual bake-off where her secret ingredient was always love (and maybe a little too much powdered sugar). But honestly, who doesn’t want to be the star baker at your next gathering?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These gooey butter cookies are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers
- Their vibrant color makes them visually stunning on any dessert table
- With their soft texture and rich flavor profile, everyone will be asking for seconds
- They’re versatile enough to suit any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations
Every time I whip up these cookies, my friends say they’re the best thing since sliced bread—or at least since gluten-free bread became a thing!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of any cookie recipe; sifting it gives a lighter texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal; opt for fine sugar for smoother batter consistency.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; light brown works best here.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels; it should be softened but not melted.
- Eggs: Essential for binding; room temperature eggs mix in more smoothly.
- Red Food Coloring: Don’t be shy—this is what gives our cookies that signature look!
- Baking Powder: Helps them rise perfectly; check the expiration date for maximum effectiveness.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla is always preferable.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it adds sweetness and looks gorgeous against the red cookie base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Get ready to unleash your inner baker! Here’s how to create these marvelous cookies step by step:
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather all your ingredients. This ensures even baking right from the start.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step sets the foundation for our cookie’s flavor.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This is when you start dreaming about those warm cookies!
Add Eggs and Color: Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully mixed. The batter will look like liquid velvet—so tempting!
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients into wet ingredients while mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep those cookies tender.
Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets spaced apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Now sit back and try not to devour them all before they cool!
There you have it—Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies that are sure to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy these treats fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies are irresistibly soft and chewy, with a delightful cream cheese flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing
- The vibrant red color adds a festive touch, perfect for any occasion
- Just be ready to share; they disappear fast!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the butter and cream cheese until creamy, then slowly add in sugar and eggs. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients and red food coloring for an even mix.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist, or sprinkle in some white chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted
- This helps achieve that chewy texture everyone loves
- Be careful not to overmix when adding the dry ingredients; a few lumps are just fine
- Lastly, don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes a world of difference
I remember one holiday season when I brought these cookies to my family gathering. They were such a hit that my cousin tried to bribe me with his homemade pizza recipe just to get another batch!
FAQ
What makes Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies unique?
These cookies combine rich red velvet flavor with gooey cream cheese for a delightful treat.
Can I use different food coloring?
Yes! You can experiment with gel food coloring or other colors for fun variations.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps enhance flavor and texture, so it’s highly recommended!
Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in these soft, chewy Red Velvet Gooey Butter Cookies that blend rich flavors and a vibrant hue, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and red food coloring until well blended.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
