Description
Cozy, festive red velvet cupcake cookies topped with creamy frosting, perfect for fall baking.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring (or natural beet powder)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: red sprinkles, mini heart candies, or a light cocoa dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone mat.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
- Beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla and red food coloring until evenly distributed.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix.
- Drop rounded tablespoons or use a medium cookie scoop onto the prepared sheet, leaving space between cookies. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon if you prefer a cupcake-top look.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are set and centers spring back lightly.
- Let cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and salt. Beat until fluffy. Pipe or spread frosting on cooled cookies and garnish.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing and a tender crumb. Measure flour correctly and avoid overbaking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American