Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a treat that brings together the tender crumb of a cupcake and the chewiness of a cookie, then you absolutely have to try this Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. These little delights are bursting with that classic red velvet flavor, wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to brighten up your day with something sweet, these cookies are an irresistible crowd-pleaser that won’t stay on the plate for long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is simple, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that signature deep red color that makes this recipe so special.

• Unsalted butter, ½ cup softened: Adds richness and ensures the cookies stay moist and tender.
• Granulated sugar, ½ cup: Provides sweetness and helps create the soft cookie texture.
• Brown sugar, ½ cup packed: Brings a subtle caramel note and extra chewiness to the cookies.
• Large egg, 1: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
• Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the flavor, balancing the cocoa and cream cheese perfectly.
• Red food coloring, 1 tablespoon: Gives these cookies their iconic vibrant red hue.
• White vinegar, 1 teaspoon: Reacts with the baking soda to create a tender crumb and slight tang.
• All-purpose flour, 1 ¼ cups: Forms the base of the cookie dough and supports the structure.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ cup: Injects the classic chocolate flavor that’s essential to red velvet treats.
• Baking soda, ½ teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise and develop a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt, ¼ teaspoon: Balances sweetness and brings out the richer flavors.
• Cream cheese, 4 ounces softened: The creamy filling that makes these cookies uniquely irresistible.
• Powdered sugar, ¼ cup: Sweetens the cream cheese filling for a smooth, luscious center.
• Vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon (for filling): Adds a delicate sweetness to the cream cheese filling.

How to Make Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This little prep step sets the foundation for your cookies’ perfect texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air, which helps give your cookies a tender, airy texture that’s just dreamy.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar to the creamed butter and sugars. Beat everything together until it’s fully combined, creating the vibrant, flavorful base for your red velvet cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This mix balances the richness with a subtle chocolate note, essential for that classic red velvet taste.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. It’s important not to overmix here to keep those cookies tender and soft.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth and creamy. This filling will be the luscious surprise inside every cookie bite.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Add ½ teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into the center, then cover it with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges carefully and roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat this fun step with the remaining dough and filling—it’s like making little stuffed treasure cookies.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your filled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re set and the tops show pretty little cracks. That’s your sign that these beauties are done!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let your cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps the cookies set nicely while keeping the filling soft and inviting.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are stunning on their own, but adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can elevate their presentation and flavor. Fresh berries alongside also create a lovely color contrast and add a fresh note.

Side Dishes

Pair these indulgent cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of rich coffee to balance the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful dessert treat when served warm.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the plate? Arrange these cookies inside a pretty gift box tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Or, stack them on a dessert stand for celebrations—they’ll be the star of the party with their vibrant color and creamy filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. This makes them perfect to bake in advance for a get-together or snack stash.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before baking or after they are fully cooled. If freezing before baking, shape your filled cookie dough balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen with a couple of extra minutes in the oven.

Reheating

Warm your cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven to soften the cream cheese filling again. This quick step revives that fresh-baked joy any time you want.

FAQs

Can I use natural food coloring instead of red food coloring?

Absolutely, but keep in mind natural options such as beet juice powder may yield a more muted color. The charm of red velvet often comes from its vibrant hue, so adjusting expectations is key.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

You can try mascarpone or a blend of softened butter and powdered sugar, but the tangy creaminess of cream cheese is unique and central to this recipe’s flavor profile.

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

With some tweaks like vegan butter, egg replacer, and dairy-free cream cheese, you might get a delicious version, but texture and taste will differ slightly. Experimenting is always fun!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?

Make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted before mixing, and chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. Also, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.

How do I know when the cookies are fully baked?

Look for cookies that are set with a slightly cracked top but still soft in the center. Avoid overbaking to keep that chewy, cupcake-like texture intact.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with its sweet, rich charm. These cookies are a wonderful way to bring a little celebration into everyday life and share something truly special with family and friends. So preheat that oven, and get ready to bake your next favorite treat!

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