Soft Red Velvet Cookies

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There’s something about the color red velvet that instantly feels festive, cozy, and just a little indulgent. The first time I baked these Soft Red Velvet Cookies, I knew they were going to be a staple for special occasions—and, honestly, for no occasion at all. Their chewy texture, vibrant red hue, and sweet white chocolate chips make them as beautiful as they are delicious.

I love how these cookies strike the perfect balance between cakey and chewy, with a subtle cocoa flavor and that irresistible soft-baked center. They’re the kind of cookies that make people pause after the first bite, smile, and ask for the recipe. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just a weekday that needs a little brightening, these cookies never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Red Velvet Cookies Recipe

These cookies are everything you want from a red velvet dessert—soft, rich, and full of that classic cocoa-vanilla flavor. They’re easy to make in just one bowl, and the white chocolate chips give each bite a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the deep red cookie base. You don’t need a mixer, just a good spatula and some pantry basics.

What Kind of Cocoa Powder Should I Use?

For the best red velvet flavor and color, I recommend using natural unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa can work, but it will darken the red hue and shift the flavor slightly. Natural cocoa brings that subtle tang and warmth that enhances the red velvet profile perfectly.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of white chocolate chips, feel free to swap in dark or semi-sweet chips for a more intense chocolate flavor. Want a dairy-free version? Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. You can even add a splash of peppermint extract during the holidays or mix in chopped pecans for extra texture. This recipe is easy to adapt while still delivering amazing results.

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Ingredients for This Soft Red Velvet Cookies Recipe

All-purpose flour – Provides the structure and bulk of the cookies. Make sure to measure it correctly for soft, chewy results.

Natural unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds the classic red velvet flavor with just a hint of chocolate.

Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and maintain their soft texture.

Cornstarch – Makes the cookies extra soft and gives them that bakery-style chew.

Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s softened to room temperature.

Brown sugar – Brings moisture and a hint of caramel depth.

Granulated sugar – Balances the sweetness and helps with that perfect cookie spread.

Egg – Binds the dough and gives it structure.

Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor and complements the cocoa.

Red food coloring – Gives that iconic red velvet hue. Gel or liquid both work; adjust quantity for desired intensity.

White chocolate chips – Creamy, sweet pops of flavor that contrast beautifully with the red velvet base.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and prevents clumping later.

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Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and fluffy. This step creates air in the dough for a soft cookie texture.

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Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then add your red food coloring a few drops at a time, mixing until you reach the desired red velvet shade.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir with a spatula or on low speed until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

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Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the white chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly dispersed throughout the dough. Save a few to press on top before baking if you want that picture-perfect finish.

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Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

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Step 7: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

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Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes, just until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.

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Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm for gooey centers or let them cool completely for a classic soft cookie texture.

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How Long to Prepare the Soft Red Velvet Cookies

Prep Time: Most of your time will go into prepping the dough, which takes about 15–20 minutes. This includes creaming the butter and sugars, mixing in the wet ingredients, and folding in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips.

Chill & Bake Time: The dough should chill for at least 1 hour, which helps develop flavor and prevents spreading. Baking takes 9–11 minutes per batch, and cooling takes an additional 5–10 minutes. Overall, from start to finish, you’re looking at around 90 minutes total (with chill time included).

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Tips for Perfect Soft Red Velvet Cookies

• Use room temperature butter and egg for even mixing.
• Chill the dough: it’s non-negotiable if you want soft, thick cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough after adding dry ingredients; it can toughen the cookies.
• Press a few extra white chocolate chips on top before baking for a bakery-style look.
• Bake until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft—they’ll continue cooking on the tray.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the chill time: The dough will spread too much in the oven.
• Using too much flour: This can make the cookies dry. Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping.
• Overbaking: They may not look fully done in the oven, but they firm up while cooling.
• Using too much food coloring: It can add a chemical taste; start small.
• Not creaming the butter and sugar properly: This affects the final texture.

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What to Serve With Soft Red Velvet Cookies?

1. Cold Milk

A classic pairing—nothing complements a chewy, chocolatey cookie better.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Use the cookies as a base for ice cream sandwiches or serve warm with a scoop on top.

3. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The slight bitterness of coffee contrasts the sweetness perfectly.

4. Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries add a tart freshness that balances the richness.

5. Whipped Cream or Cream Cheese Dip

For a dessert platter, serve cookies with a tangy dip reminiscent of red velvet cake frosting.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.

Freezing Baked Cookies: Once fully cooled, freeze the cookies in a single layer in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy warm.

Freezing Dough: Scoop dough into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per cookie, based on a batch of 20)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Cholesterol: 25mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 48 hours in advance and kept in the fridge.

Can I use a natural red food dye?

Absolutely! Beet powder or natural food dyes work, though the color may be softer.

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, but they’ll be more like chocolate cookies in color—still tasty!

Do I need to chill the dough every time?

Chilling is highly recommended for the best texture and thickness. You can bake without chilling, but the cookies will spread more.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

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Conclusion

Soft Red Velvet Cookies are the kind of treat that feels special without needing a special occasion. They’re vibrant, chewy, and irresistibly delicious with every bite. With a little chill time and the right ingredients, you’ll end up with bakery-quality cookies right at home. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing at a party, or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee, they’re bound to be a hit.

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