Red velvet cream cheese stuffed cookies bring a comforting warmth to any occasion, with their vibrant red color and creamy filling that feels like a hug in cookie form. The soft, velvety texture paired with the tangy sweetness of the cream cheese makes them a delectable treat perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even as a delightful surprise in lunchboxes.
Reasons to Adore Red Velvet Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
There are countless reasons why you will fall head over heels for these luscious cookies. The combination of rich cocoa and tangy cream cheese creates a flavor profile that is both delightful and indulgent. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast as the soft, chewy exterior gives way to a smooth, creamy center. Here are a few highlights that make these cookies irresistible:
- Bright splash of color that brings joy
- Perfect balance of sweetness and tang
- Ideal for celebrations or quiet nights in
- Fun to make with family and friends
- Versatile enough for any occasion
What You’ll Need for Red Velvet Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
Creating these scrumptious cookies requires a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you may have in your pantry already. Each component contributes to the final delicious outcome, with creamy filling contrasting beautifully with the soft, red velvet layers. The magic happens with:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
These ingredients mix harmoniously to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures that you will adore.
Bringing It Together: How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
Baking these beautiful cookies is a rewarding experience, and the result is sure to impress. Follow these simple steps for perfect results:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and come off the sheet with ease.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Stir until well blended. The sweet, cocoa aroma will begin to waft through your kitchen, adding a cozy feel to the space.
- Add the softened butter and egg to the dry mixture. Mix well until it reaches a smooth consistency. This step will create the lovely deep red batter that is so inviting.
- To prepare the creamy filling, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined. Imagine a luscious, sweet tanginess that you can’t wait to taste.
- Now, take a spoonful of the cookie dough and gently flatten it in your palm. Place about one teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center, then fold the dough around the filling to form a ball. This part is where the magic happens—you’ll be encasing that delectable filling within a soft cookie shell.
- Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each one, as they will spread during baking.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake, enticing everyone nearby.
Prep ~ 20 minutes, Cook ~ 15 minutes, Total ~ 35 minutes, Servings ~ 24 cookies, Kcal ~ 160 per cookie (estimate).
Plan Ahead
If you’re hosting an event or just want to enjoy these cookies throughout the week, there are a few make-ahead options to consider. You can prepare the cookie dough a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Allow the dough to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking. Alternatively, you can also make the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge until your cookie baking day.
Storing and Reheating
Once your red velvet cream cheese stuffed cookies are baked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container. In the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to three months. To enjoy, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—the gooey filling will become wonderfully melty once again.
Perfect Pairings
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with various treats and beverages. Consider these ideas for serving:
- A tall glass of cold milk
- A rich cup of hot chocolate
- Creamy vanilla ice cream on the side
- Fresh berries to cut the sweetness
- Coffee for a warm morning treat
Variations and Swaps
Feel free to get creative with these cookies to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few fun ideas:
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor boost.
- Oreo Filling: Replace the cream cheese filling with crushed Oreos mixed with cream cheese for a cookies-and-cream version.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter along with a non-dairy cream cheese for a plant-based treat.
Cook’s Notes and Secrets
To achieve the best results, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for better mixing.
- Be careful not to overmix the cookie dough, as this can make the cookies tough rather than chewy.
- Space the cookie balls about two inches apart on the baking sheet, as they will spread during baking.
- For an even bake, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
- Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time, as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.
Your Questions, Answered
- Can I use cocoa powder instead of cake flour?
- Yes, cocoa powder is essential for that rich red velvet flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar accordingly if you’re using a sweetened version.
- How do I know when my cookies are done?
- Look for set edges and a slightly soft center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Can I freeze the raw cookie dough?
- Absolutely! Scoop the cookie balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from the freezer—just add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
- What if I want my cookies to be more cake-like?
- You can experiment with adding an additional egg for a softer, cakier texture.
- Can I use a different filling?
- Yes! Feel free to swap the cream cheese filling for your favorite flavor—Nutella or a fruit preserve would also work well.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, red velvet cream cheese stuffed cookies are a delightful treat that impresses with their spectacular color and flavor. The combination of a soft, chewy cookie and creamy filling is sure to make them a favorite at any gathering. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or enjoy them as an everyday treat, you won’t be disappointed. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to these scrumptious cookies soon. Happy baking!
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Red Velvet Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful red velvet cookies stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda; mix well.
- Add softened butter and egg to the dry mixture; mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Take a spoonful of cookie dough, flatten it in your palm, place cream cheese filling in the center, and encase it with dough.
- Place cookie balls on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set and centers are soft.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: red velvet cookies, cream cheese stuffed, dessert, baking, holiday treats
