If you are searching for a dessert that combines the tender richness of red velvet cake with the chewy delight of cookies, this Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to be your new obsession. These little cups are the perfect handheld treat, boasting a soft, cocoa-kissed red velvet dough baked to cookie perfection and filled with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet, comforting bite, these cookie cups deliver charm, color, and incredible flavor that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each element has a special role, whether it’s the tang from the buttermilk, the depth of flavor from cocoa powder, or the creamy sweetness that the frosting brings to life.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base providing structure and bite to the cookie cups.
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate undertone essential for authentic red velvet taste.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Gives a slight rise, making the cookie cups soft but not cakey.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides rich moisture and tenderness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to the cookie’s tender texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and gives structure.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the dough.
- 2 tbsp buttermilk: Adds tang and keeps the cookie cups delightfully moist.
- 2 tbsp red food coloring: Creates that iconic, vibrant red hue.
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the texture and flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy foundation of the frosting, providing smooth richness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for perfect piping.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor profile.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Bakeware
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with cupcake liners so the cookie cups release easily after baking. This preparation step ensures your cookie cups keep their perfect shape and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Setting this mixture aside helps ensure your cookie dough will be smooth with no lumps and evenly flavored.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, in a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is key for adding air into the dough, which helps the texture stay tender yet chewy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the egg, vanilla extract, and that gorgeous red food coloring until the mixture is fully combined. Then, add the buttermilk and vinegar to activate the baking soda, contributing to the cookie cups’ delicate crumb.
Step 5: Combine the Dough
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the cookie cups from becoming tough. The dough should be rich, velvety, and hold together nicely to scoop.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the cookie dough into each muffin cup, gently pressing down to form small cups. Pop them into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookie cups cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat again until light and fluffy. This frosting is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, complementing the red velvet flavor beautifully.
Step 8: Frost the Cookie Cups
After the cookie cups have fully cooled, use a piping bag or spoon to generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cup. For a festive touch, sprinkle some red velvet crumbs or colorful sprinkles on top if you like. Now, your Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish instantly makes these cookie cups feel extra special. Try a dusting of cocoa powder, a few mini chocolate chips, or even festive sprinkles. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also pair wonderfully, providing a juicy contrast to the creamy frosting.
Side Dishes
These cookie cups shine as a sweet treat alongside a hot cup of coffee, a frothy latte, or a comforting mug of tea. For a party spread, serve them with fresh fruit platters or light salads to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the muffin tin and try stacking these cookie cups on a tiered dessert stand for an eye-catching centerpiece. You could also place one cup inside a decorative cupcake wrapper for gifting, or arrange them on a pretty cake plate alongside a drizzle of chocolate or raspberry sauce for wow-factor presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining both freshness and that delightful frosting texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookie cups without the frosting for up to 2 months. Simply scoop and bake the dough cups as directed, then freeze cooled cookie cups on a tray before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready, thaw in the fridge and frost just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and luscious.
Reheating
For an extra-soft treat, gently warm refrigerated cookie cups in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds before serving. If frozen, allow them to thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid reheating too long or the frosting may melt excessively.
FAQs
Can I make these cookie cups without red food coloring?
Yes, you can skip the red food coloring, but keep in mind the signature red velvet color will be missing. The flavor will remain delicious, though the visual impact won’t be quite the same.
What size muffin tin should I use for these cookie cups?
A mini muffin tin works best, as it creates the perfect bite-sized cookie cups with enough space for frosting. Standard muffin tins will result in larger cookie cups and may alter baking time.
Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic its acidity, which helps achieve the tender texture and authentic red velvet tang.
Is it possible to make the frosting dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter substitutes. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary a bit, but it’s a great alternative for those with dairy restrictions.
How long do these cookie cups stay fresh at room temperature?
Since the cookie cups have cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep them refrigerated. At room temperature, they are safe for about 2 hours, but refrigeration ensures they stay fresh and safe to eat longer.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful about biting into a perfectly baked red velvet cookie cup filled with silky cream cheese frosting. This Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly delivers on comfort, flavor, and festive charm all in one delightful bite. Give it a whirl in your kitchen—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these little treats become a favorite for family, friends, and any special occasion that calls for a touch of homemade magic.
Print
Red Velvet Cookie Cups with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookie cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Red Velvet Cookie Cups topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a perfectly baked cookie cup, ideal for parties, snacks, or a sweet indulgence. Soft, moist, and vibrant, each cookie cup is topped with a silky, smooth cream cheese frosting that complements the rich cocoa and tangy buttermilk in the cookies.
Ingredients
Cookie Cups
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp buttermilk
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of cookie cups.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Cream Butter Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a smooth base for your cookie dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Combine: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring into the butter mixture until well combined. Then add the buttermilk and white vinegar, mixing thoroughly. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, blending just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fill Muffin Tin and Bake: Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the cookie dough into each mini muffin cup, pressing down gently to shape the dough evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cookie cups cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cookie cups have cooled completely, use a piping bag or spoon to generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie cup. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles or red velvet crumbs for extra flair.
- Storage: Serve immediately or store the frosted cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookie cups tender.
- Ensure cookie cups are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice if needed.
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant color without altering dough consistency.
- For ease of frosting, chill cream cheese and butter to soften but not melt.
