Name: Irresistible Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Creamy Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour (Essential for the perfect cookie texture.); 1 1/2 tbsp cocoa powder (Adds a hint of richness that complements the red hue.); 2 tsp cornstarch (Ensures a soft, chewy consistency in the finished cookie.); 3/4 tsp baking soda (Provides that necessary lift during baking.); 1/4 tsp salt (Enhances the overall flavor profile.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, soft (Creates a rich, tender base for your cookies.); 1/2 cup white sugar (Sweetness to balance the flavors in each bite.); 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed (Adds a deeper flavor and moisture.); 1 large egg (Binds everything together for a delightful dough.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Infuses a warm, comforting aroma into the cookies.); 1 tsp vinegar (Reacts with baking soda for a soft and chewy texture.); 2 tsp red food coloring (The star ingredient that gives these cookies their iconic hue.); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (Gives the frosting a comforting texture.); 2 tbsp vegetable shortening (Helps maintain stability, especially in warmer conditions.); 3 oz cream cheese, softened (Adds the essential tangy flavor that defines classic frosting.); 1 1/2 - 2 cups powdered sugar (Sweetness is adjustable to your preference for frosting thickness.); 1/4 tsp salt (Balances the sweetness and enhances the cream cheese flavor.); 1 tbsp heavy cream, if needed (Adjust for your desired frosting consistency.)

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the sight of vibrant red velvet cookies cooling on a wire rack, their rich color practically bursting with personality. As I prepared for a cozy gathering with friends, I felt a pull towards these delightful treats, perfect for sharing and celebrating over warm conversation. With the chocolatey aroma wafting through my kitchen, it felt like the ideal opportunity to create something that not only looks stunning but tastes heavenly.

You might be surprised to learn how easy it is to whip up these red velvet sandwich cookies, especially when you sandwich them with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This recipe effortlessly blends a hint of cocoa with a creamy filling, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone craving a homemade dessert that’s a step above your usual offerings, these cookies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to turn any occasion into a memorable celebration!

Why Love Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies?

Irresistible flavor combination: The fusion of rich chocolatey cocoa and vibrant red hue creates a taste that’s simply unforgettable.
Creamy frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing each bite.
Impressive presentation: These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, sure to wow your guests.
Simple process: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can master these delightful cookies.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these cookies encourage connection and joy among friends and family.
Craving more exciting treats? Explore our collection of delectable homemade desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to making these delightful red velvet sandwich cookies!

For the Cookie Base

1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for the perfect cookie texture.
1 1/2 tbsp cocoa powder – Adds a hint of richness that complements the red hue.
2 tsp cornstarch – Ensures a soft, chewy consistency in the finished cookie.
3/4 tsp baking soda – Provides that necessary lift during baking.
1/4 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, soft – Creates a rich, tender base for your cookies.
1/2 cup white sugar – Sweetness to balance the flavors in each bite.
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds a deeper flavor and moisture.
1 large egg – Binds everything together for a delightful dough.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, comforting aroma into the cookies.
1 tsp vinegar – Reacts with baking soda for a soft and chewy texture.
2 tsp red food coloring – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their iconic hue.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Gives the frosting a comforting texture.
2 tbsp vegetable shortening – Helps maintain stability, especially in warmer conditions.
3 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds the essential tangy flavor that defines classic frosting.
1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetness is adjustable to your preference for frosting thickness.
1/4 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the cream cheese flavor.
1 tbsp heavy cream, if needed – Adjust for your desired frosting consistency.

Now you’re all set to create the perfect batch of red velvet sandwich cookies. Happy baking!

How to Make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. This ideal temperature will ensure your cookies bake evenly and become soft and chewy!
Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl by combining all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Stir until evenly distributed for a well-balanced flavor in your cookies.
Cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar in another mixing bowl. Beat until light and fluffy, creating a lovely tunnel of air for that perfect cookie texture.
Add wet ingredients by beating in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring. Continue mixing until everything is smoothly combined, revealing that beautiful, vibrant color.
Combine dry and wet by gradually mixing the dry ingredients into the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined, ensuring we preserve the light texture of those cookies!
Scoop dough using a rounded tablespoon, and drop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. You want them to be soft in the center and slightly firm around the edges; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Prepare the frosting by beating together softened unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This is the heart of your sandwiches!
Blend powdered sugar slowly into the frosting mixture along with salt, adjusting sweetness to your liking. If your frosting needs a bit more creaminess, add heavy cream gradually.
Frost cookies after they’ve completely cooled. Generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it with another.

Optional: Sprinkle with a touch of cocoa powder for a decorative finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking process! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry and wet ingredients together, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator—just give it a quick stir before using. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions, yielding perfectly soft cookies just as delicious as when made fresh. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing your treats are all set for your gathering!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this delightful recipe your own with these tasty twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without the gluten.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch and nutty flavor in every bite.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of dark or white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and a rich chocolatey taste.
Minty Fresh: Stir in 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract into the cookie dough for a refreshing mint twist that’s perfect for the holidays.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. The warmth enhances the flavors incredibly!
Vegan Friendly: Replace the butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of chicken eggs, and choose a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mashed raspberries or strawberries into the frosting for a fruity flavor that perfectly balances the richness.
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tsp of lemon zest to the frosting for a zesty freshness that brightens up the creamy goodness beautifully!

Helpful Tricks for Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for a smooth, cohesive dough and frosting, which helps avoid a lumpy texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; we want them soft and chewy!
Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop and shape into perfectly rounded cookies.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be soft in the middle but set around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them.
Frosting Consistency: Adjust the heavy cream in your frosting based on your preference. A thicker frosting is perfect for spreading, while a thinner one is ideal for piping decorations.
Store Properly: To keep your red velvet sandwich cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just frost them after thawing!

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: These delightful red velvet sandwich cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers and store in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until just warm.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies?

Indulge in the delicious sweetness of these cookies while discovering perfect pairings to elevate your dessert experience.

Cold Milk: A classic companion that enhances the chocolaty flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies. It brings back childhood memories with every sip!
Creamy Ice Cream: Vanilla or cream cheese flavors melt wonderfully against the rich texture of the cookies, creating a dessert that feels like a special treat.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst and tartness, making each bite vibrant and exciting. Perfect for a light contrast to the cookies’ richness!
Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of a bold coffee harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, making for an indulgent afternoon break.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich ganache on top of your cookies elevates your dessert to a new level of luxe. Every bite becomes a chocolate lover’s dream!
Cream Cheese Mousse: This light and fluffy mousse mirrors the cream cheese frosting perfectly and can add an elegant touch to your plate for a stunning dessert presentation.
Nutty Toffee Bits: Sprinkling crushed toffee bits on your frosted cookies adds delightful crunch and caramel undertones, intensifying the flavor experience.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing, non-sweet option, fizzy water provides a palate cleanser between bites, allowing the cookie flavors to shine without overwhelming sweetness.
Classic Cheesecake: A small slice of cheesecake can serve as a delightful counterpoint to the cookies’ flavors, making your dessert spread even more irresistible!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my red velvet sandwich cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, make sure your butter is freshly bought and at room temperature for easy creaming. For the red food coloring, opt for a high-quality gel version for a vibrant hue. Ensure cocoa powder is fresh for a robust flavor and that your eggs are large and unblemished, preferably organic for the best taste.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! To store your red velvet sandwich cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them wrapped tightly for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their softness and freshness.

Can I freeze red velvet sandwich cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies for up to 1 month. After baking and cooling, place parchment paper between layers of cookies in a freezer-safe container. This prevents them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and frost them after thawing for best results.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, it’s often a sign that the butter wasn’t cold enough or too much moisture has been added. You can chill your dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up and make it easier to scoop. If it’s still too sticky after chilling, try adding a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach a more manageable consistency.

Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! While these red velvet sandwich cookies contain common allergens such as gluten and dairy, you can modify the recipe for dietary needs. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive or vegan diets. Always check your specific brands for allergens.

How should I adjust the frosting for desired thickness?
If you want a thicker frosting, start by using the lower end of powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups) and then gradually add more until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add heavy cream a teaspoon at a time until it’s just right for spreading or piping. It’s all about finding what feels right for your sweet tooth!