Description
These cookies are soft, chewy, and rich with cocoa flavor—finished with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting. Their stunning red color makes them festive and irresistible, perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, food coloring, and vinegar. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until just combined.
- (Optional) Chill dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto sheets. Space 2 inches apart.
- Bake 9–11 minutes. Let cool on baking sheets, then transfer to a wire rack.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
- Frost cooled cookies. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes