Irresistibly Soft Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Did you know that red velvet cookies can elevate any gathering, whether it’s a cozy holiday get-together or a simple Sunday brunch? These Easy Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a sweet treat—they're a delightful blend of textures and flavors that embody the spirit of celebration. What makes them so irresistible is not just their vibrant color but the perfect harmony of soft, chewy cookie shells paired with a creamy, cheesecake-like filling that nearly melts in your mouth.

With this recipe, you’ll whip up a batch in no time, impressing friends and family with minimal effort. These cookies are a crowd-pleaser that bring a festive flair, making them ideal for Christmas or Valentine's Day festivities. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time and stored, making them a great choice for busy schedules.

So, are you ready to bring a dash of Southern charm to your dessert table? Let’s dive into whipping up these luscious red velvet cookie sandwiches that everyone will want to savor!

Why are Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies special?

Indulge in the delightful experience of these Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! Soft and Chewy, each cookie is a luscious treat, boasting a rich combination of buttermilk, cocoa, and vibrant color for an eye-catching appeal. Perfect for Sharing, they are bound to be a hit at any gathering, from holiday feasts to casual brunches. Make-Ahead Friendly, you can prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to have these delicious cookies ready when you need them. Don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies for more delightful cream-filled cookie ideas!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create a holiday masterpiece!

For the Cookies
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure to the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Adds richness and flavor, aids in creaming.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture and structure.
• Buttermilk – Contributes to a tangy flavor and tender texture, activates baking soda.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Red Food Coloring – Gives the characteristic red velvet color, essential for these red velvet sandwich cookies with cream cheese frosting.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies.
• Baking Soda – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a subtle chocolate flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese (8 oz) – The base of the cream cheese filling; provides a tangy flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens cream cheese filling and adds smoothness.
• Butter (room temperature) – Adds richness and aids in creaming the cream cheese filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that the cookies don’t stick during baking. While the oven is heating, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process, making it easier to create your delightful Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and room temperature unsalted butter using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This aeration is crucial as it provides the cookies with a tender texture and helps them rise.

Step 3
Add in the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, blending well until fully incorporated. This should take around 2 minutes. The buttermilk adds a lovely tang that complements the sweetness, while the egg brings moisture and helps bind the ingredients together in your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 4
Carefully stir in the red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade of vibrant red. This is not just for aesthetics—it's a key characteristic of red velvet cookies! Aim for a uniform color throughout the batter, as this will enhance the visual appeal of your cookies once baked.

Step 5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder. This step is essential, as it combines the dry ingredients and ensures that the baking soda distributes evenly. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, stirring well to create a thick and cohesive dough.

Step 6
Using a mini ice cream scoop or your hands, scoop out the dough and roll them into smooth balls. Place each ball about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring enough space for the cookies to spread while baking. It’s important for the texture that each cookie has a smooth surface.

Step 7
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should look set around the edges but still soft in the center. You’ll notice a delightful chocolaty aroma filling your kitchen as they bake. Remember, they’ll firm up while cooling, so avoid overbaking.

Step 8
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the pan for 1-2 minutes to set. Then, gently transfer them to a cooling rack. This cooling period is crucial to achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture for your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 9
In the meantime, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, room temperature butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. This filling will add a rich and tangy quality that balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Step 10
Once the cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to create your delicious sandwiches. Place the cream cheese filling into a piping bag or use a spoon to generously dollop the filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, pressing lightly to create a beautiful and irresistible sandwich.

Step 11
After assembling your cookie sandwiches, place them in the fridge for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld. This step makes a difference, enhancing the overall experience of your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 12
Finally, store any leftover cookie sandwiches in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Enjoy these delightful treats chilled or at room temperature, and remember—they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring alone during a well-deserved treat time!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Variations

Let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on classic red velvet cookies!

Nutty Bliss: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese filling for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies. The nutty flavor elevates each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an extra chocolatey treat. They will melt slightly while baking, creating pockets of indulgent goodness.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie mix for a warm, aromatic touch. These spices can transform your cookies into a cozy seasonal delight, perfect for chilly evenings.
Lemon Zest: Infuse a bit of lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a refreshing tang. This brightens the flavors and gives a unique twist, making it perfect for springtime gatherings.
Dairy-Free: Swap regular butter with a dairy-free alternative and cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese. You can still enjoy the delightful flavor and texture without the dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy these delicious cookies without missing out!
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream cheese filling for a festive minty twist. It's a fun change that adds a refreshing finish, especially during the holiday season.
Extra Creamy Filling: Double the cream cheese and powdered sugar for a richer filling that oozes out when you take a bite. If you love creamy desserts, this variation is calling your name!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these irresistible cookies with delightful accompaniments that complement their rich flavors.

Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast that's perfect for any gathering.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream against the vibrant red cookies creates a luxurious dessert experience, melting seamlessly together.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of a good brew beautifully enhance the chocolate notes in the cookies, making each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the assembled cookies, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor profile.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can provide a delightful and creamy contrast, making each bite feel even more indulgent.
Hot Chocolate: Serve with a warm, frothy mug of hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience during chilly seasons. A perfect companion for festive gatherings!
Cheese Platter: Enjoying a slice of sharp cheddar or creamy brie alongside the dessert creates an exciting taste adventure, blending savory and sweet.
Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine not only adds elegance but also enhances the rich flavors of the cookies, making every bite savored.
Decorative Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful decorations can add an enticing look, adding a playful element that’s sure to delight all ages!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a romantic touch, pairing these cookies with chocolate-covered strawberries will surely impress at holiday festivities!

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies

Fridge: Keep your assembled Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they stay fresh and the filling retains its creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, these cookies can be frozen! Place the cookie sandwiches in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them up before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature; this helps in achieving a creamy texture for both cookies and filling.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be soft in the center when you remove them to maintain that chewy texture.

• Chill for Best Results: After assembling your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, let them chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours. This helps the filling set perfectly.

• Smooth Cookie Balls: For a uniform and aesthetically pleasing look, roll your cookie dough into smooth balls before baking.

• Piping Filling: Use a piping bag for the cream cheese filling for neat and even distribution, ensuring every bite is filled with creamy goodness.

• Storage: Keep your cookie sandwiches in the fridge to maintain freshness and enhance the flavor of the cream cheese filling.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you're looking to prep even further ahead, the baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 3 months. To ensure quality, let the cookies cool completely before storing them, as this prevents them from becoming soggy. When you're ready to enjoy, just assemble the sandwiches with the cream cheese filling and place them in the fridge for at least 3 hours to set before serving. With these make-ahead strategies, you can enjoy delightful cookies with minimal last-minute effort!

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! Freshness is key. Choose butter that’s at room temperature, ensuring it's soft but not melted—this helps create a fluffy texture. For the egg, ensure it’s fresh; you can check by placing it in water—if it sinks, it’s good! And use buttermilk that’s within its expiration date for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies?
Very simple! Place your assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining that delicious cream cheese filling. Just remember to layer them carefully, so the frosting doesn't stick to the lid!

Can I freeze Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Yes, you can! Freeze the assembled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature prior to serving.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, no worries! This can happen if the butter is too warm or if there’s humidity in the air. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes—it will firm up nicely. If it’s still sticky after chilling, you can gently knead in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable and forms smooth balls.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies, such as allergens?
Very important! These Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies contain common allergens like gluten from all-purpose flour and dairy from butter and cream cheese. If you're accommodating gluten-free diets, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. For dairy-free options, you could substitute vegan butter and plant-based cream cheese to create a similar creamy filling. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are free from allergens for those you’re serving.

Aria West