Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
These red velvet cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic cake, combining rich flavors and a soft texture. Topped with creamy frosting, they make a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 ounce) Red Velvet cake mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ounces softened cream cheese (¼ block)
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (more as needed)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅕ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth using an electric mixer or by hand.
- Step 3: Place rounded tablespoonfuls of the cookie dough on a baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Step 4: Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set and no longer shiny. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: To make the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and heavy cream together until smooth using an electric mixer.
- Step 6: Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Step 7: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Add more cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Step 8: Once the cookies are completely cool, top each with a dollop of frosting and gently spread it over the surface using a spatula.
Tips & Variations
- For a more intense red color, add a few drops of red food coloring to the dough.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer frosting texture and flavor.
- To add texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or white chocolate chips on top before frosting.
- If you prefer a firmer frosting, chill it briefly before spreading.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the frosting fresh. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving. For longer storage, freeze the cookies without frosting and add fresh frosting after thawing.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
While red velvet cake mix gives the signature flavor and color, you can experiment with chocolate or velvet cake mixes for variations, but the classic taste might change.
Is it necessary to frost the cookies?
The cookies are delicious on their own, but the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy contrast that enhances the flavor and texture.
Print
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in these soft and tender Red Velvet Cookies topped with a rich homemade cream cheese frosting. Made from a simple red velvet cake mix, these cookies offer a perfect balance of moist texture and vibrant flavor, complemented by a smooth, sweet cream cheese topping. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a special sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 (15.25 ounce) Red Velvet cake mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ounces softened cream cheese (¼ block)
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (more as needed)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅕ teaspoon salt
- Additional heavy cream as needed for spreading
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C). In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use an electric mixer or mix by hand until the dough is smooth and well combined.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a rounded tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a nonstick surface, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 10 minutes, or until the cookies are set on the edges and no longer shiny on top. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with 3 tablespoons of heavy cream (or milk) until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing again until fully combined.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating continuously until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick to spread, add more heavy cream a teaspoon at a time to reach the desired spreading consistency.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies have fully cooled, place a dollop of cream cheese frosting on each cookie. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before making the frosting to ensure a smooth texture.
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle red velvet cake crumbs or red sanding sugar on top of the frosting.
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If desired, substitute heavy cream with milk but frosting may be slightly less rich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Cookies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Easy Red Velvet Dessert, Soft Cookies, Holiday Cookies

