Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your love than with a delightful batch of homemade Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies? These cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty, offering a rich cocoa flavor with a subtle hint of vanilla and buttermilk. The cream cheese filling adds a luscious touch that is hard to resist, making these cookies the perfect sweet treat to celebrate the romantic holiday. In this article, you will learn how to make these delectable cookies step by step, along with some variations and useful tips to ensure your baking success.
What Are Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies?
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are delightful treats that combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake into a handheld cookie form. Originating in the Southern United States, red velvet is known for its vibrant red color, often paired with cream cheese frosting. These sandwich cookies encapsulate the essence of red velvet while providing a perfectly portable dessert for sharing and celebrating special occasions.
The texture of these cookies is soft and slightly chewy, thanks to the addition of buttermilk in the dough. The mild cocoa flavor harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and tangy cream cheese filling, creating a balanced taste that is both rich and satisfying. When prepared correctly, these cookies are not only visually appealing but also melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them a hit at any gathering, particularly around Valentine’s Day.
Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
There are countless reasons to adore these Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies. For one, they are perfect for Valentine’s Day celebrations, delivering a heartfelt message through the love that goes into their preparation. With their bold color and delicious flavor, they’re sure to impress anyone, whether you are gifting them or sharing with your loved ones.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. These cookies can easily be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or allergies. For example, you can swap out the buttermilk for a non-dairy version or adjust the filling to make it vegan. Plus, the baking process is quite simple, making it accessible for beginner bakers while still rewarding for those with more experience.
Additionally, these cookies are cost-effective. They use simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, meaning that you can create something special without breaking the bank. Plus, making your own treats allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresher and tastier than store-bought alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these decadent Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, providing structure. Make sure to measure accurately by spooning the flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa enhances the chocolate flavor while keeping the cookies rich and decadent.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and achieve a light texture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang to the cookie dough. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies, contributing to the soft texture.
- Brown sugar: Besides sweetness, brown sugar gives the cookies a deeper flavor and helps retain moisture.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for a rich, creamy base. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Egg: Acts as a binding agent, providing structure to the cookies.
- Red food coloring: This is essential for that classic red velvet look! You can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant hue.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient for the filling! Use softened cream cheese for easy blending.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling, achieving the right consistency and flavor.
- Heavy cream or milk: Helps to mix thecream cheese filling to a spreadable consistency.
How to Make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, which will help the cookies rise.
- Add the egg and food coloring: Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined, ensuring no streaks of egg or food coloring remain. The vibrant red hue should be visible throughout the mixture.
- Incorporate dry ingredients with buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start with about a third of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add half of the buttermilk, followed by more dry ingredients, and repeat until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Scoop and shape cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each ball as the cookies will spread while baking.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers appear slightly underbaked. The cookies will firm up as they cool. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Cool the cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: While the cookies are cooling, prepare your cream cheese filling. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. If the mixture is too thick, add a few teaspoons of heavy cream or milk until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Sandwich the cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese filling on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie, creating a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled.
- Serve and enjoy: Your homemade Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Present them beautifully on a platter or package them as a special Valentine’s Day gift.
5 Variations & Substitutions
Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies: For a fun twist, add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the cookie dough before baking. About 1 cup should be sufficient. This addition brings a delightful surprise in each bite and pairs perfectly with the cream cheese filling.
Nut-Free Version: If you’re preparing these cookies for someone with nut allergies, you’re in luck! This recipe is naturally nut-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the baking powders and sugars, are processed in a nut-free facility.
Vegan Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies: To make a vegan version of these cookies, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), and replace the buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with apple cider vinegar. Use vegan butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter and opt for dairy-free cream cheese for the filling.
Red Velvet Sandwich Cake: If you want a more dramatic dessert, consider turning the cookie concept into a cake! Use the same batter to create two 9-inch round cakes, sandwiched together with cream cheese filling. Decorate the outside with whipped cream or additional frosting for a stunning centerpiece.
Spiced Red Velvet Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm and cozy flavor variation. This spiced twist is perfect for adding depth to the classic red velvet taste. Plus, it speaks to the heartwarming atmosphere that Valentine’s Day brings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, there are some common pitfalls that can affect the final product. One common mistake is **overbaking** the cookies. Since the cookies should appear slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, keep a close eye on them. If you leave them in too long, they will become dry and crumbly instead of soft and chewy.
Another mistake is using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour properly. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can add excess flour and lead to dense cookies.
Additionally, don’t skip the step of **letting the cookies cool completely** before filling them. If they are warm, the cream cheese filling may melt instead of remaining a deliciously creamy centerpiece. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for the best results.
Finally, be cautious with the amount of **food coloring** you add. Too much coloring can leave a bitter taste, while too little may not give you that vibrant red hue you desire. Start with a small amount, and you can always add more if needed, but keep in mind that the color will intensify slightly during baking.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To keep your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but remember that the cream cheese filling may become a little firmer. When ready to eat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a short while to soften.
If you want to prepare these cookies in advance, you can freeze them! Place the filled sandwich cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
When reheating, avoid using the microwave, as it can make the cookies tough. Instead, if needed, warm them in the oven at a low temperature just until they are slightly warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a cake mix for these cookies?
You can, but the flavor and texture may differ from homemade red velvet cookies. Cake mixes often contain added ingredients that might lead to a cake-like texture instead of a chewy cookie. For the best results, using the traditional recipe will ensure a richer flavor and perfect consistency.
What if I don’t have any buttermilk?
Don’t worry if you run out of buttermilk; you can easily make a substitute. Mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly like buttermilk.
How can I add cream cheese frosting to these cookies?
If you prefer a richer filling, you can certainly use traditional cream cheese frosting instead of the simple filling. Just beat together cream cheese with butter and powdered sugar, adding a splash of vanilla extract until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make these cookies without any food coloring?
Absolutely! While the food coloring contributes to the classic red velvet appearance, you can omit it if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious and have a slightly darker cocoa color.
What’s the best way to package these cookies for gifting?
To package your cookies for gifting, use clear cellophane bags tied with a pretty ribbon or place them in decorative cookie boxes. Don’t forget to include a small card expressing your love to make your gesture even sweeter!
Conclusion:
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate love and bring joy to your Valentine’s Day. With their rich flavor, beautiful presentation, and delicious cream cheese filling, they are sure to please anyone lucky enough to receive them. Remember to try the simple recipe, explore variations, and most importantly, enjoy the process of baking these lovely treats. So don your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create something special. Your loved ones will be thrilled, and you’ll feel the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch! Get baking, and share your sweet creations!
