If you have a soft spot for indulgent desserts that are as stunning to look at as they are to eat, then I am thrilled to share this Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe with you. These delightful treats combine the rich, velvety texture of classic red velvet with the gooey, tangy charm of a luscious cream cheese filling, all wrapped up between perfectly baked cookies. The result is a heavenly bite that’s moist, sweet, and beautifully balanced — a dessert that’s sure to become your go-to whenever you want to impress friends or treat yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making these Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe just perfect every time. Each element plays a vital role in the cookie’s texture, flavor, and that gorgeous red hue that makes this recipe stand out.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Softened to creamy perfection, butter adds richness and tender crumb to the cookies.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds the necessary sweetness and helps in achieving a slightly crisp edge on the cookies.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Brings moisture and deep caramel notes, complementing the red velvet flavor.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the binder, giving structure without making the cookies tough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor giving those warm, inviting hints we all love in baked goods.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: The star ingredient creating the iconic red velvet look you can’t resist.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and reacts with baking soda to help cookies rise beautifully.
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The base of your dough that holds everything together with just the right chew.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives that signature hint of chocolate essential for classic red velvet flair.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies spread and rise, giving a lovely texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the other flavors.
- 4 ounces cream cheese: Softened and whipped into the filling for that irresistibly creamy, tangy center.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese filling perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Adds an extra layer of flavor to the cream cheese filling.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Step 1: Ready Your Oven and Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this prevents the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Setting up early makes the process seamless.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for giving your cookies a tender and soft texture with a bit of lift.
Step 3: Add the Egg, Vanilla, Food Coloring, and Vinegar
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar to the creamed butter and sugar. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda later on to create a tender crumb, while the red coloring gives that captivating hue.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually introduce these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, blending until just combined — over-mixing can make cookies tough, so take care here.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This luscious filling is what brings the cookie sandwich to life with its tangy sweetness and creamy texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches
Here’s the fun part — scoop about one tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Dollop half a teaspoon of cream cheese filling in the center. Top with another tablespoon of dough, carefully sealing the edges, and roll gently into a ball. Repeat until all dough and filling are used. This technique ensures you get a gooey filling surprise inside every cookie sandwich.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your cookie sandwiches on the baking sheet, spacing them two inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the tops are set and show slight cracks. They should look slightly puffy and deliciously tender.
Step 8: Cooling and Final Touches
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest period helps the filling settle inside and keeps the cookies beautifully moist.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, consider dusting the tops of your cookie sandwiches with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few festive red sprinkles. Not only does this add a visual pop, but it also infuses a bit more sweetness and whimsy to your presentation.
Side Dishes
These sandwich cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a rich cup of hot cocoa, or even a creamy latte. The cream cheese filling balances the sweetness beautifully, making any drink the perfect companion for these delightful treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to turn these Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe into a dazzling dessert platter? Try stacking them on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper. You can also wrap individual sandwiches in clear cellophane tied with a festive ribbon for a fun party favor or gift that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which may be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Freezing
These cookie sandwiches freeze beautifully. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy the cream cheese filling’s luscious texture at its best.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookie sandwiches warm, pop them in a microwave for about 10 seconds or briefly in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes. This warms the filling just enough for that melty, gooey bliss without drying out the cookie.
FAQs
Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder?
Absolutely! This recipe accommodates both types of cocoa powder, but keep in mind that Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother, mellow flavor that complements red velvet perfectly. Natural cocoa will still work great and offers a slightly more intense chocolate flavor.
Is it necessary to use red food coloring?
While the red food coloring gives these cookies their classic red velvet appearance, you can reduce the amount or use natural alternatives like beet juice if you prefer. Just be aware the color might be less vibrant.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, with some modifications. Use dairy-free margarine instead of butter and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for the filling. The texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it’s a delicious alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
How do I avoid the cream cheese filling leaking out during baking?
Sealing the cookie dough well around the filling is key. Make sure to pinch the edges securely and press gently to form tight cookie balls, which helps keep the filling perfectly encased while baking.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading too much, try chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before assembling the sandwich. Also, ensure you measure your flour correctly; too little flour can cause excessive spreading.
Final Thoughts
These Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe are truly a labor of love that pays off with every bite. From their rich red color to the creamy center, they strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will surely brighten any day. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving a sweet escape, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe. You might just find your new favorite cookie treat!
Print
Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies combine the rich, velvety flavors of classic red velvet cake with a luscious cream cheese filling in every bite. Soft, moist, and delightfully sweet, these cookies are perfect for anyone craving a unique twist on everyday cookies. They are easy to prepare and ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Cream Sugars and Butter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential to create a tender texture in the cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar until the mixture is well combined and smooth, giving the dough its characteristic red color and subtle tang.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can cause tough cookies.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Cookies: Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly. Place ½ teaspoon of cream cheese filling in the center, then cover with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges carefully and roll the dough into a ball. Repeat this process until all dough and filling are used.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly cracked on top.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies set properly.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to allow smooth mixing.
- If you prefer a more intense red velvet flavor, you can increase the cocoa powder to ⅓ cup but reduce the flour slightly to maintain dough consistency.
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant color without affecting the dough texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
