Why Make This Recipe
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake. Their soft texture and rich chocolate flavor are complemented by a creamy filling, making these cookies irresistible. Not only are they delicious, but they are also visually stunning with their vibrant red color and festive appearance.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or just a special treat for yourself. Plus, they can be shared with friends and family, creating joyful moments around the table. Everyone loves a good cookie, especially when it’s as eye-catching as these!
Equipment Needed for Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
To make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Microwave-safe bowl
What You Need to Make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
- 4 oz. unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 sticks salted butter, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 3 Tbsp. buttermilk
- 5 tsp. red food coloring
- 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 4 oz. white chocolate, chopped
- 8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- White nonpareils, for decorating
How to Cook Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Take the chopped unsweetened chocolate and place it in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it in 30-second intervals and stir it until it’s melted, which should take about 1 minute. Once melted, let it cool for a few minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and softened salted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. After that, reduce the mixture speed to low. Carefully drizzle the cooled melted chocolate into the mixture while mixing. Remember to scrape the bowl’s sides occasionally to ensure everything is well blended.
Next, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then, include the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture in two batches using low mixer speed. Make sure to scrape the bowl once and mix again until everything is completely combined. Finally, fold in the chopped white chocolate.
Now it’s time to shape your cookies. Take generous tablespoonfuls of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring space of about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake in the oven until the cookies are puffy and set, which should take around 12 minutes. After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely.
While your cookies cool, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a clean large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, which will take about 4 minutes.
Once the filling is ready, take half of the cooled cookies and spread or pipe a dollop of the filling onto the flat side. Top with the remaining cookies to create delightful sandwiches. For a fun touch, roll the sides of the sandwich cookies in white nonpareils. Finally, refrigerate the cookies for about 15 minutes to help the filling set.
How to Serve Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies can be served in several fun ways. They are perfect for dessert tables, parties, or as a sweet treat after a meal. To enhance their presentation, consider serving them on a decorative plate or a tiered dessert stand.
For an even more delightful experience, pair the cookies with a glass of milk or a hot beverage like coffee or tea. Their rich flavor complements these drinks beautifully, bringing out the sweetness in every bite.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
When enjoying Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, there are several tasty pairings to elevate your dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can balance the sweetness of the cookies. These simple additions add a creamy texture to go along with the cookie’s soft filling.
Another great choice is a cup of hot cocoa or a warm mug of spiced chai. The comforting warmth of these beverages contrasts nicely with the cool filling, creating a well-rounded dessert experience. For an added treat, serve the cookies alongside fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing touch.
How to Store Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
To store Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies effectively, keep them in an airtight container. Place a layer of parchment paper between the cookie layers to avoid sticking. Stored this way, they can last in the fridge for about a week.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, separating the layers with parchment paper again. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Tips to Make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
When making Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, a few tips can help achieve the best results. Always ensure that ingredients like butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and smoother texture. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in the dough and filling.
Don’t skip the chilling time after assembling the cookie sandwiches. Refrigerating them for at least 15 minutes allows the filling to set and creates a more enjoyable texture when eating. Additionally, for a more intense red color, you can adjust the quantity of red food coloring to fit your preference.
Variation
For those looking to put a unique spin on their Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, there are plenty of fun variations. You might try adding a hint of peppermint extract in the filling for a refreshing twist or even chocolate chips in the dough for added texture and flavor.
Another idea is to decorate the cookies with colorful sprinkles instead of nonpareils, especially for special occasions. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheese fillings, like adding a hint of lemon zest or almond extract for a distinctive taste.
Best Time to Make Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies can be enjoyed year-round, but certain occasions stand out as the ideal time to make them. They are particularly popular around holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and birthdays due to their vibrant color and festive appearance.
Additionally, these cookies can be a wonderful treat for special gatherings, bridal showers, or baby showers. Their unique look and delicious flavor make them a suitable centerpiece for any dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies, a few common mistakes can impact the final outcome. One major mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately, especially flour. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, while too little can result in cookies that spread too much during baking.
Another pitfall is overbaking the cookies. Keep a close eye on them while in the oven. They should look puffy and slightly set but not hard. Finally, don’t forget to let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling. This step prevents the filling from melting and ensures a perfect cookie sandwich.
Nutritional Notes
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are undoubtedly a treat and come with their share of calories and sugar. However, they also provide a bit of indulgence in moderation. They are a source of carbohydrates and fats, primarily from sugar and butter.
For those who enjoy baking with healthier substitutes, consider swapping out some ingredients. Using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or incorporating fruits like applesauce can create a lighter version. Adjusting the recipe can allow you to enjoy the cookies more guilt-free while maintaining their delightful taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use food coloring gel instead of liquid food coloring?
A: Yes, food coloring gel can be a great alternative. Just use a small amount since it is more concentrated than liquid coloring.
Q: How can I make the cookies softer?
A: To achieve a softer texture, be cautious not to overbake them. Additionally, adding a bit more butter or using cake flour can make them tender.
Q: Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cookies a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly so they stay fresh.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and cream cheese in a cheerful, vibrant package. They’re not only fun to make but also bring joy to any gathering or celebration. With the right techniques and a bit of creativity, you can create a batch that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process, share the results, and most importantly, savor every delicious bite!
