Introduction
Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Red Velvet Sugar Cookies! With their rich color and soft texture, each bite is a sweet celebration of flavor. The beautiful crimson hue, complemented by a hint of cocoa, makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy afternoon. The addition of white chocolate chips gives these cookies an extra touch of indulgence and creaminess. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 12 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a perfect canvas for your cookies.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined; set this dry mix aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and irresistibly aromatic.
- Crack in the egg, then add the red food coloring, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix everything together until it’s a beautiful, vivid blend.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If you’re feeling decadent, fold in the white chocolate chips for an added burst of sweetness.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into neat balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat them with a sweet sparkle.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave at least 2 inches of space between each ball so they can spread while baking.
- Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft, promising that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, letting the tempting aroma fill your kitchen.
Notes or Tips
- For a stronger red color, feel free to add a bit more red food coloring.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of milk or a warm cup of cocoa!
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days to come.
Cooking Techniques
When it comes to baking cookies, precision is key. Make sure to properly measure your ingredients to achieve consistent results. Creaming the butter and sugars thoroughly adds air to the dough, leading to a light and fluffy texture. Be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients; this will help keep your cookies tender. Lastly, letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes allows them to set without becoming too firm.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? While you can substitute whole wheat flour, it may change the texture and taste of the cookies; they may be denser.
- Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
- What can I substitute for red food coloring? If you’d prefer a natural alternative, beet juice can be used, but it might not produce the same vibrant hue.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are sure to bring a festive flair to any gathering or simply enhance your day with a burst of color and flavor. With their soft, chewy texture and delicious taste, they’re a delightful treat that’s both pretty and palatable. Bake a batch today and share the love with family and friends or savor them all for yourself—you won’t regret it!