These Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies are a fun twist on a classic dessert! They’re soft, chewy, and have that lovely hint of chocolate flavor, along with a bright red color.
Plus, the best part? You only need a cake mix to make these! I love adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a little extra sweetness. So easy and so pretty! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake Mix: This is the star of the show! It gives the cookies their color and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with a chocolate or vanilla cake mix and just add red food coloring to achieve that same vibrant hue.
Unsalted Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or margarine instead, but keep an eye on the consistency of your dough.
Cream Cheese: This is essential for the filling that adds that creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, you might use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar result.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens up the cream cheese filling. If you want a less sweet filling, you can reduce the amount or use a sugar substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Are Soft and Chewy?
To achieve soft and chewy cookies, focus on these key points:
- Don’t overbake! Pull them out when the edges are set but the center still looks a bit soft. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet from residual heat.
- Make sure your butter is melted, not browned, as that can change the texture. It should be warm and liquid.
- Be gentle with the dough. Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies, so just mix until combined.
- Let them cool on the sheet before moving them. This helps them firm up without drying out.
With these tips, you’re on your way to creating the perfect batch of Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies! Enjoy your baking! 🥳
Delicious Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (for filling)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (divided: about 1 cup for filling, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
- Optional: red velvet cake crumbs or red sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus another 10-12 minutes for baking. You’ll want to cool the cookies after baking for about 5 minutes, and then allow them to cool completely before adding the filling. In total, plan for about 40-45 minutes to whip these delicious cookies up from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until a soft, cohesive dough forms. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; just make sure everything is well combined.
3. Scoop the Dough:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop balls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
4. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. You want to take them out when the edges are set and the centers look a little soft. They’ll firm up as they cool!
5. Cool the Cookies:
After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
While the cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the filling! In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in 1 cup of powdered sugar and the 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
7. Assemble the Cookies:
Once the cookies have cooled completely, take one cookie and spread or pipe a generous amount of the cream cheese filling on the bottom. Sandwich it with another cookie on top to create a delightful cookie sandwich!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
To make them extra special, lightly dust the tops of the cookie sandwiches with the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. You can also sprinkle some red velvet cake crumbs or red sprinkles on top for a beautiful presentation.
9. Enjoy!
Now, you can enjoy your wonderfully soft and rich Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies with cream cheese filling! They’re perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy every bite!
These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also easy to make! Happy baking! 🎉🍪
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix for These Cookies?
Absolutely! You can substitute the red velvet cake mix with any other flavor, such as chocolate or vanilla. Just remember to add red food coloring if you want to keep that red velvet look!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese for the Filling?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even a fluffy whipped buttercream made with powdered sugar and butter for a different flavor profile!