Prepare to be enchanted by these homemade Cream Cheese Frosted Red Velvet Cookie Bars, a true masterpiece that embodies everything a red velvet dessert dream is made of. When it comes to the pantheon of classic desserts, few things can rival the sheer delight of a soft, rich red velvet cookie bar crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s an iconic combination that promises a symphony of flavors and textures in every single bite, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.
If your heart beats for all things red velvet, you’re in for a treat! Explore more irresistible creations like 25 Drool-Worthy Red Velvet Dessert Recipes, these adorable Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting, or the utterly delightful ‘Kiss Me’ Red Velvet Brownies!
The Irresistible Allure of Red Velvet Cookie Bars
What is it about red velvet that captivates us so completely? It’s more than just a vibrant color; it’s a unique flavor profile that marries a hint of cocoa with a subtle tang, creating a sophisticated and utterly addictive taste. These ruby-red cookie bars are a testament to that allure, drawing you in with their striking appearance even before the first bite. But the temptation doesn’t stop there. Picture that smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting, generously spread atop the rich, soft bar, as if they were destined to be together. It’s a match made in dessert heaven, creating a harmonious balance that is simply divine.
These decadent bars are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. They effortlessly channel a truly delightful dessert vibe, making them ideal for special occasions. Imagine serving these gorgeous red velvet bars on Valentine’s Day! Their deep, romantic hue and exquisite flavor could be the secret ingredient to a truly unforgettable moment, a sweet gesture that speaks volumes of love and affection. Or perhaps, simply a delightful way to treat yourself or loved ones any day you crave something extraordinary. The answer is a resounding yes!
Indeed, these bars practically scream “LOVE!” in the most delicious way possible. Their seductive deep red color exudes romance and passion, making them an impressive centerpiece for any dessert spread. Beyond their stunning looks, the undeniable charm of home-baked goodies lies in their comforting warmth and unmatched flavor. You can never go wrong with something made with love, fresh from your own kitchen. These red velvet cookie bars are proof that homemade always wins, every single time.
Each bar offers a perfect blend of a rich, soft cookie base with that iconic hint of cocoa, perfectly complemented by the bright, slightly tart sweetness of the cream cheese frosting. The texture is often described as delightfully fudgy, especially if you follow the expert baking tips provided, ensuring a moist and satisfying chew that keeps you coming back for more. This combination of visual appeal, complex flavor, and satisfying texture is precisely why these Red Velvet Cookie Bars are so utterly irresistible.
Homemade Indulgence Made Simple: Easy Red Velvet Cookie Bars
The words “Red Velvet” might sometimes intimidate home bakers, conjuring images of complex techniques and intricate steps. But fear not! You’ll be delighted to discover just how incredibly easy these homemade red velvet cookie bars are to prepare. Forget the daunting reputation; this recipe simplifies the process, making gourmet-level baking accessible to everyone. We’ve all been there, tempted by convenience, grabbing a cake mix from the pantry for a quick dessert. While there’s certainly a time and place for that, for an occasion that truly calls for something special – or simply when you want to impress – these from-scratch cookie bars are unparalleled.
These bars are truly stunning, beautiful, and taste so incredibly yummy that they’ll make your eyes roll back in pure delight. The secret to their ease lies in a straightforward cookie dough that comes together quickly with the help of a stand mixer or a hand mixer. Once mixed, the dough is simply spread into a pan and baked. It’s a process that builds confidence even for novice bakers, proving that you don’t need years of experience to create something spectacular.
For that signature vibrant red hue, we highly recommend using a high-quality red gel food coloring. Unlike liquid food colorings, gel dyes are highly concentrated, meaning you need only a small amount to achieve a rich, deep color without altering the consistency or introducing any unwanted flavor to your delicious bars. You can find these versatile gel colorings individually or in convenient sets, allowing for various creative coloring projects beyond just red velvet.
And let’s talk about the cream cheese frosting – another element of this dessert that is surprisingly simple. It requires just a few basic ingredients, which, when combined with a mixer, transform into a smooth, airy, and wonderfully tangy topping. The ease of both the cookie bar base and the frosting makes this recipe a go-to for anyone looking to create a show-stopping dessert without the fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or simply when a craving for something truly special strikes.
Red Velvet: A Timeless Trend for Every Celebration
The appeal of Red Velvet extends far beyond Valentine’s Day. It’s a universally beloved flavor and color that makes it popular and trendy for a multitude of other holidays and celebrations throughout the year. Imagine these festive bars gracing your Christmas table, their vibrant red adding a cheerful pop of color. They’re equally fitting for the patriotic celebrations of the 4th of July, a joyful addition to Mother’s Day brunches, or a delightful surprise for birthdays and any event where you want the color ‘RED’ to truly stand out and make a statement.
The versatility of red velvet lies in its ability to adapt to various festive themes while consistently delivering a taste that everyone adores. Its distinctive hue signifies celebration, passion, and joy, making it a perfect choice for adding a touch of elegance and excitement to any gathering. Whether it’s a grand holiday feast or a simple family get-together, these cookie bars will undoubtedly elevate the dessert experience.
Prepare to go weak in the knees, my friend. These **Cream Cheese Frosted Red Velvet Cookie Bars** are sassy, sexy, and lusciously delicious all rolled into one irresistible package. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors – the soft, subtly chocolatey bar and the rich, tangy frosting – creates a decadent experience that is simply unforgettable. Get ready for an indulgence that will have everyone exclaiming with delight!
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, red velvet offers a nuanced flavor that is hard to resist. The mild cocoa flavor, often enhanced by a touch of vinegar or buttermilk, provides a subtle depth that distinguishes it from traditional chocolate desserts. This unique profile, combined with the creamy, sweet-and-sour notes of cream cheese frosting, creates a truly balanced and sophisticated treat that appeals to a wide range of palates. It’s no wonder red velvet has maintained its status as a timeless culinary trend, continually captivating dessert lovers worldwide.
Essential Ingredients for Your Red Velvet Masterpiece
Crafting these delectable Red Velvet Cookie Bars requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create their signature flavor and texture. Starting with softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar forms the rich, tender base of the cookie bars. Eggs and vanilla extract add moisture and depth, while a crucial element is the red food coloring (gel paste is recommended for the best color saturation without diluting the batter) which gives red velvet its iconic hue. A touch of unsweetened premium cocoa powder provides that subtle chocolatey backdrop, balanced by all-purpose flour, baking soda for lift, and a pinch of salt to enhance all the flavors.
Red Velvet Cookie Bars Recipe Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks or 16 tablespoons)
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or chocolate extract – for a deeper chocolate taste without altering the red color, chocolate extract is a fantastic choice!
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Red Food Coloring (Liquid Gel Dye or Gel Paste Dye works best; start with small amounts as they are highly concentrated to achieve your desired vibrant color)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened premium cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
The crowning glory of these red velvet delights is the homemade cream cheese frosting. This tangy, sweet, and incredibly smooth topping perfectly complements the richness of the cookie bars. It’s made with softened unsalted butter and cream cheese, ideally full-fat or a ⅓ less fat version like Philadelphia Cream Cheese for optimal texture and flavor. Powdered sugar provides the sweetness and structure, while a tiny dash of salt balances it all out. A splash of vanilla extract is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of aroma and taste. Don’t forget the sprinkles for a festive finish!
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 – 8 ounce pkg. cream cheese, softened (I used ⅓ less fat Philadelphia Cream Cheese for a slightly lighter option)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended)
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
How to Create the Best Homemade Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Crafting these delicious Red Velvet Cookie Bars is a rewarding process that yields incredible results. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your bars are perfectly baked and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.
Preparing the Homemade Red Velvet Cookie Bars
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking as soon as your cookie dough is ready.
- Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. You can either lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray, or for easier removal and cleaner slices, line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to use as handles, and then spray the parchment paper with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these two ingredients together on medium speed for approximately 4 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cookie bar’s tender texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla (or chocolate) extract and the red food gel/color. Continue mixing until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and the color is evenly distributed throughout the batter, creating that iconic red velvet hue.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are well combined and distributed, preventing clumps in your final dough.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookie bars. Once the batter is fully incorporated, it will be quite stiff and sticky. Use a butter knife or an offset spatula to spread the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Take your time to ensure an even layer for consistent baking.
Baking the Cookie Bars
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. For truly fudgy red velvet bars, I recommend under-baking them slightly, around the 18-minute mark. They might still seem a bit soft in the center when you remove them, but they will continue to set as they cool, resulting in a wonderfully moist and fudgy texture. If you prefer a firmer, yet still moist, cookie bar, do not bake beyond 22 minutes. Over-baking will lead to dry bars. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Adding the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the cookie bars cool completely, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese until the mixture is light, fluffy, and completely smooth. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add half of the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Then, add the remaining powdered sugar along with the salt and vanilla extract (if using), and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy. If you desire a thicker or thinner consistency, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar accordingly.
- Once the red velvet cookie bars have cooled completely (this is crucial, as warm bars will melt the frosting), spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Finishing Touches
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkles are always a welcome addition. Scatter them generously over the frosting.
- Finally, cut the frosted bars into squares or rectangles and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cookie Bars Every Time
Achieving bakery-quality Red Velvet Cookie Bars at home is easier than you think with a few helpful tips. Firstly, ensure all your dairy ingredients, especially butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for both the cookie bars and the frosting. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter and an incredibly creamy frosting that spreads beautifully. For the vibrant red color, always opt for gel or paste food coloring over liquid; it’s more concentrated and won’t thin out your dough or frosting. Start with a smaller amount and add more until you reach your desired deep red hue.
When mixing the cookie dough, avoid overmixing once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tougher, chewier bars rather than the desired soft and fudgy texture. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain. For baking, remember that cookie bars continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat. Pull them out when the edges are set and the center looks slightly soft; this is the key to achieving those coveted fudgy centers. If a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs, they are perfect!
Finally, patience is key for the frosting stage. Ensure your cookie bars are completely cool before applying the cream cheese frosting. Attempting to frost warm bars will result in a melted, runny mess. If your frosting seems too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm it up before spreading. These simple tips will guarantee your Red Velvet Cookie Bars are a resounding success, earning you rave reviews from everyone who tries them!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your glorious Red Velvet Cookie Bars are baked and frosted, proper storage is essential to maintain their freshness and deliciousness. Due to the cream cheese frosting, these bars must be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 5-7 days. For the best flavor and texture, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This softens the frosting and enhances the overall experience, bringing out the subtle nuances of both the cookie and the topping.
If you’ve made a large batch or want to prepare them ahead of time, these cookie bars also freeze wonderfully. After frosting, cut the bars into individual portions. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer the frozen bars to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying.
This Red Velvet Cookie Bars recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting offers an easy-to-follow guide to a truly exceptional dessert. These perfect cookie bars are ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers alike, promising delightful results every time. So don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and get baking! You’re just a few steps away from experiencing this heavenly treat.
Ready to Bake? Let’s Rock ‘n Roll This!
Discover More Red Velvet Delights
If you’ve fallen in love with these Red Velvet Cookie Bars, be sure to explore more of our fantastic red velvet creations:
- Red Velvet Luv Truffles
- Easy Dreamy Red Velvet Cream Cheese Poke Cake
- Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting
- “American Beauty” Retro Red Velvet Cake
Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Recipe by Kim Lange
Pin Recipe
20 minutes
Dessert
American
18
bars
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cookie Bars:
-
1
cup
unsalted butter softened
(2 sticks or 16 tablespoons) -
1 ¼
cups
sugar -
2
eggs -
2
teaspoons
vanilla or chocolate extract -
1 ½
Tablespoons
Red Food Coloring or when using Liquid Gel Dye or Gel Paste Dye start with small amounts since it’s so concentrated to get desired color -
⅓
cup
unsweetened premium cocoa powder -
2
cups
all purpose flour -
1
teaspoon
baking soda -
½
teaspoon
salt
Cream Cheese Frosting:
-
½
cup
unsalted butter softened -
1 – 8
ounce
pkg. cream cheese softened
(I used 1/3 less fat Philadelphia Cream Cheese) -
3
cups
powdered sugar -
⅛
teaspoon
salt -
1
teaspoon
vanilla
(optional) -
Sprinkles
(optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
- Lightly spray a 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray.
- In large bowl, using mixer, cream together butter and sugar for approx. 4 minutes.
- Add eggs, vanilla/chocolate extract, and red food gel/color and mix until combined.
- In another bowl, add cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt and whisk together.
- Mix until fully incorporated then spread batter evenly in pan. I used a butter knife to spread it, the dough is stiff and sticky.
- Bake for 18 – 22 minutes. I tend to under-bake cookie bars, so at 18 minutes, they are still cooking when you take them out of the oven, which give you really fudgy red velvet bars after they set up while they are cooling. I would not bake over 22 minutes if you don’t want a fudgy cookie bar, but still want a decent moist bar.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In large bowl, using a mixer, cream together butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add 1/2 of the powdered sugar, mix in, then add the remainder with the salt and vanilla and continue mixing until combined. Add more or less powdered sugar, as desired for consistency purposes.
- Spread frosting onto the cooled red velvet cookie bars.
- Sprinkles acceptable.Cut and serve.
cookie bars, cream cheese, red velvet, valentine’s day, homemade dessert, easy recipe
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Recipe modified from Modern Honey’s Red Velvet Sugar Cookie Bars