These Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies are soft, chewy, and so easy to make! Just mix the cake mix with a few simple ingredients and let the oven do the work.
They’re perfect for parties or just a sweet treat at home. Honestly, who can resist that rich, red color? I love adding chocolate chips to mine for extra yumminess! 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake Mix: This is the star of the show! It provides the rich color and flavor. If you can’t find red velvet mix, you can use chocolate cake mix and add a bit of red food coloring.
Vegetable Oil: This helps keep the cookies moist. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter if you prefer. Just remember that melted butter may yield a firmer cookie.
White Chocolate Chips: These are optional but add a lovely sweetness. You can swap them for semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even chopped nuts for some crunch.
Cream Cheese: Essential for that classic red velvet taste, cream cheese gives the frosting its tanginess. You can use mascarpone cheese for a similar texture with a sweeter flavor.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Soft Cookies?
The key to soft cookies is not to overbake them! They should be slightly puffy when you take them out, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet from residual heat. Here’s how to nail it:
- Set your timer for 10 minutes, then check on them. If they’re still too soft, give them an additional minute.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without becoming hard.
- Don’t skip the cooling step after baking. The cookies need time to set, allowing for a gooey interior.
How to Make Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Red velvet cake crumbs or red sugar sprinkles, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious cookie recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let them cool afterward! Overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy these treats in about 30-45 minutes, depending on how quickly you work.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture until a soft dough forms. If you want a bit of extra sweetness, fold in the white chocolate chips here!
3. Scoop the Dough:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each ball for spreading.
4. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to set but the centers should still look a bit soft—this will ensure your cookies remain chewy!
5. Cool the Cookies:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cookies are cooling, you can make the cream cheese frosting! In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is nice and fluffy.
7. Frost the Cookies:
After the cookies are fully cool, it’s time to add the frosting. You can pipe or dollop a small amount of the cream cheese frosting onto the center of each cookie.
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a touch of flair, sprinkle some red velvet cake crumbs or red sugar sprinkles on top of the frosting. Serve these delightful cookies immediately, or you can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy them with a refreshing glass of milk!
This recipe yields soft and moist red velvet cookies topped with decadent cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy baking! 🍪
Can I Use Other Cake Mix Flavors?
Absolutely! If red velvet isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with chocolate or vanilla cake mix. Just remember that the flavor and color will change accordingly.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the regular red velvet cake mix. Be sure to check the other ingredients (like the frosting) to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them to extend their freshness.
Can I Freeze the Cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze really well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and add fresh frosting before serving!
