The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and baking up a storm in the kitchen. With the smell of fresh cookies wafting through the air, it brings back memories of laughter, family, and cherished traditions. This year, I felt a strong pull to share something special with all of you. That’s why I created this post filled with 10 easy red velvet cookie recipes that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
If you’re someone who loves baking with your little ones or simply enjoys soft, chewy treats that scream festive cheer, you’ve found your spot. These recipes are perfect for family bonding time, allowing you to whip up treats that not only look amazing but taste incredible too. Imagine the smiles on your kids’ faces as they help mix, roll, and decorate these beautiful red velvet cookies.
In this post, you’ll find a variety of options that are not just easy to make, but also fun to decorate. From classic red velvet cookies to delightful cookie sandwiches and crinkle cookies, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe offers a unique twist, ensuring your holiday cookie platter will be anything but boring. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create some sweet memories in the kitchen with your loved ones!
Let’s dive into these festive cookie recipes that are not only simple but also provide an exciting way to spark your creativity and holiday spirit. You’ll be equipped with delicious ideas that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Key Takeaways
– Explore 10 easy red velvet cookie recipes that are perfect for baking with kids during the holidays.
– Discover recipes like Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies and Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches for unique flavors and fun textures.
– Each recipe includes simple steps, making them ideal for novice bakers and families alike.
– Learn how to add festive touches, like sprinkles and cream cheese frosting, to elevate your cookie presentations.
– Enjoy quality time in the kitchen creating soft, chewy cookies that will spread holiday cheer to everyone around you.
1. Classic Red Velvet Cookies
Kick off your holiday baking with a timeless red velvet cookie. It stays soft and chewy, with a cocoa kiss and a hint of vanilla. The red color shines on the tray and fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent. This recipe is quick to mix and easy for a family bake.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, food coloring, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoons of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
8. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips:
– Adding white chocolate chips or nuts can enhance the flavor profile.
– Ensure to measure your flour accurately to avoid dry cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, they freeze wonderfully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
2. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Add a playful twist to your holiday cookie platter with red velvet crinkle cookies. They hide a soft center beneath a crackled sugar crust that looks festive. The dough comes together fast, making it perfect for a quick bake with the family. The color pops and the texture stays wonderfully tender.
Ingredients:
1 box red velvet cake mix
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
½ cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, oil, and eggs until well combined.
3. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
5. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated, then place on the baking sheets.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set.
7. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips:
– Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps keep the cookies from spreading too much!
– You can add chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– How do I store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches
Unleash the fun with red velvet cookie sandwiches filled with cream cheese frosting. These treats are perfect for parties, offering a pretty bite and a rich taste you can’t beat. The combo of red velvet and creamy filling feels fancy but is easy to pull off. They shine on any dessert table and taste amazing together.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets.
2. Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in the egg, food coloring, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mix.
5. Scoop dough onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla.
7. Spread frosting between two cookies to create a sandwich.
Tips:
– Place your frosted sandwiches in the fridge for a while to set them nicely.
– They make great gifts if packaged nicely!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use store-bought frosting? Absolutely, but homemade has a special touch!
4. Red Velvet Oatmeal Cookies
Try a chewy twist with red velvet oatmeal cookies. The oats add heartiness while keeping the velvet color and cocoa flavor intact. They bake quickly and stay soft, making them a family favorite. The result is a tasty contrast that kids love to chew and savor.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then add the egg, color, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
6. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips:
– For added flavor, try white chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
– These cookies store well in an airtight container!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Are they healthy? They are a treat, so enjoy in moderation.
5. Red Velvet Sprinkle Cookies
Brighten the tray with red velvet sprinkle cookies. They stay soft and chewy while a shower of colorful sprinkles brings joy to every bite. These are ideal for party trays and cookie exchanges, simple to make yet big on charm. Kids and adults alike will smile at the festive look and tasty bite.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup colorful sprinkles (plus more for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour and baking powder.
3. Cream the softened butter and sugar in another bowl until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg, food coloring, and vanilla.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until well combined.
5. Fold in the sprinkles and drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then allow them to cool.
7. Top with additional sprinkles while still warm.
Tips:
– You can use themed sprinkles for different holidays.
– Make the dough ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for easy baking later.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make these without food coloring? Yes, but they won’t have that iconic red color!
6. Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies blend bold color with a playful touch. You press your thumb into the dough to make a well for jam or frosting, creating a sweet surprise in every bite. The soft cookie meets a fruity filling for a delightful mix. Kids enjoy shaping the dough and watching the jam glow inside.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
½ cup fruit jam or frosting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
3. Cream the butter and sugar in a separate bowl until fluffy, then add the egg, food coloring, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Roll the dough into balls, place them on the baking sheet, and press your thumb into the center to create a well.
6. Fill the thumbprint with jam or frosting.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.
Tips:
– Use a variety of fillings for different flavors.
– Make sure the thumbprint is deep enough to hold the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use chocolate frosting for filling? Yes, that would be delicious!
Did you know thumbprint cookies bake in about 12 minutes and add a 1-fruit jam surprise to red velvet cookie recipes easy moments? Kids love shaping the dough and watching the center glow as colors brighten the holiday plate.
7. Red Velvet M&M Cookies
Color and fun collide in red velvet M&M cookies. The bright candy pieces make the platter feel festive, while the cookies stay soft in the center with a gentle edge. Kids love dropping the dough and watching the M&Ms pop as they bake. These are great for parties and gift tins alike.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup M&Ms (red and green for holidays)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar in another bowl until fluffy, then add the egg, food coloring, vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients until combined, then fold in the M&Ms.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
6. Allow cooling for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips:
– Use seasonal M&Ms for extra holiday flair.
– These cookies are great for gifting when placed in pretty tins.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use chocolate chips instead of M&Ms? Sure! Get creative with your mix-ins!
These red velvet cookie recipes easy twists turn baking into a colorful moment the whole family loves. Kids adore dropping the dough and watching M&Ms pop as the cookies bake, turning science and flavor into festive fun. Pro tip: stash a few extra M&Ms for gorgeous, gift-worthy bites.
8. Red Velvet Cheesecake Cookies
Indulge in a rich blend of red velvet and creamy cheesecake. These cookies bring a fancy feel with a playful twist, ideal for celebrations. The creamy filling contrasts with a soft red velvet bite, making every bite feel special. They work well for dessert tables or a special after-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then add the egg, color, and vanilla.
4. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the mix.
5. For the filling, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Scoop dough, flatten, and place a dollop of cheesecake filling in the center. Cover with more dough.
7. Bake 10-12 minutes, then cool on a rack.
Tips:
– Chill the dough slightly to help it hold shape.
– These cookies are best fresh but can be stored in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make the filling a day ahead? Yes, store it in the fridge!
Fun fact: 2 textures in one bite—soft red velvet and creamy cheesecake—make these red velvet cookie recipes easy to share and feel festive. They’re a playful, easy-to-make treat that turns holiday baking with kids into a wow moment at every dessert table.
9. Red Velvet Peanut Butter Cookies
Taste a bold duo with red velvet peanut butter cookies. The cocoa note meets peanut butter for a chewy, rich bite. Kids love the creamy swirl and the colorful look on the plate. They pair nicely with a tall glass of milk during a cozy afternoon.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add egg, color, vanilla, and peanut butter.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until well combined.
5. Form balls of dough and place on the baking sheets, gently flattening them.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, cool on a wire rack.
Tips:
– Top with chocolate chunks for extra indulgence.
– These cookies pair well with milk or hot cocoa.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, it adds a nice texture!
10. Red Velvet Holiday Biscotti
Close out your bake with red velvet biscotti. These twice-baked treats are perfect for dipping in coffee, cocoa, or warm milk. They stay crisp and hold their color well, making cute gifts or party favors. Kids can help decorate with simple icing and sprinkles for a personal touch.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: white chocolate for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until smooth, then add the eggs, color, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a dough.
5. Shape the dough into a log and place it on the pan.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then let cool slightly.
7. Slice into biscotti pieces and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes until crisp.
8. Drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.
Tips:
– Store in an airtight container to keep crunch.
– These biscotti make great holiday gifts!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use a different color of food coloring? Yes, but red velvet is special!
Conclusion
These 10 easy red velvet cookie recipes are perfect for holiday baking adventures with kids. Each recipe offers a unique twist on the classic flavor we love, ensuring a festive atmosphere in your kitchen. From classic cookies to fun variations, these treats will bring smiles and warmth to your holiday celebrations!
Get ready to bake up some sweet memories and enjoy the delightful process of making these scrumptious cookies together. Happy baking!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these red velvet cookie recipes easy for busy holiday bakers?
These red velvet cookie recipes easy to follow, use pantry-friendly ingredients, and require minimal equipment, so you can bake with confidence even on a busy day.
You’ll enjoy soft chewy cookies with a festive twist in under 30 minutes and with small, kid-friendly steps that are perfect for holiday baking recipes with kids.
Tip: measure ingredients before you start, mix just until combined, and bake the cookies in batches for fresh, tender centers.
Can I make these with kids and still get soft, chewy cookies?
Absolutely—these recipes are beginner-friendly and ideal for involving kids in the kitchen. Let little helpers scoop dough, press in holiday sprinkles, and watch the cookies puff into soft chewy cookies without losing the festive vibe.
Using kid-safe tools and short bake times keeps things fun and stress-free while you bake red velvet cookies that feel special for the season.
What pantry swaps keep the red velvet flavor while accommodating dietary needs?
You can keep the bright red color and tangy flavor with simple swaps. Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and replace eggs with a flax egg or applesauce to keep the texture soft chewy and not crumbly.
Switch to dairy-free milk if needed, and consider unsweetened cocoa for the classic depth. These tweaks still deliver festive cookie recipes without sacrificing flavor.
How should I store these cookies to stay soft and chewy for holiday gatherings?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2-3 months, or freeze dough for up to 1-2 months and bake later for easy dessert ideas that taste freshly baked.
Warm briefly in the microwave or oven before serving to revive that soft chewy texture.
Which of the 10 recipes are best for quick, crowd-pleasing holiday baking with kids?
Start with the simplest bake: no-chill dough or single-bowl mixes that yield soft chewy cookies in minutes, perfect for festive cookie recipes and holiday baking recipes with kids.
Choose recipes that use kid-friendly toppings or mix-ins, like white chocolate chips, candy cane pieces, or red sprinkles to boost the festive feel.
These quick options are ideal for easy dessert ideas your whole family will love, and you can customize colors and flavors for any holiday.
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