Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are a decadent treat that combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. These soft, pillowy cookies are perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the filling and the subtle cocoa flavor of the red velvet dough. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday celebration, or just craving something indulgent, these sandwich cookies are sure to impress. Their vibrant color and irresistible flavor make them a festive addition to any dessert spread.

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (liquid or gel)

For the cream cheese filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Prepare the cookie dough:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully combined. The mixture should be vibrant red in color.
5. Combine the dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together and is well combined.

Bake the cookies:

6. Form the cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop out dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.
7. Bake the cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are firm but soft in the center. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the cream cheese filling:

8. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the filling is smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the sandwich cookies:

9. Sandwich the cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of the cream cheese filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, pressing down gently to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.

Serve:

10. Serve and enjoy: Once assembled, your Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are ready to be served! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes:

• Food Coloring: You can adjust the amount of food coloring depending on how vibrant you want the cookies to be.
• Make-Ahead: The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
• Cream Cheese Filling: For a fluffier filling, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture while beating.

Conclusion:

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies are a fun, festive, and delicious treat that brings the best of red velvet cake and creamy filling together in the form of cookies. With their soft texture, rich flavor, and striking red color, these cookies make the perfect addition to any holiday dessert table or celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress and delight!