Red Velvet Cookie Bars
These luscious Red Velvet Cookie Bars are more than just a treat; they are a visual feast with their vibrant crimson hue and creamy frosting. Imagine pulling a tray from the oven, the sweet aroma enveloping your kitchen as you slice into the tender, chewy bars. Each bite melts in your mouth with that unmistakable red velvet flavor, complemented by the subtle perk of tangy cream cheese frosting. It just feels like a cozy hug on a plate!
Table of Contents
I can’t help but think back to the joyous gatherings where these delectable bars stole the show—birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or even just a cozy Sunday afternoon treat. These bars radiate love and nostalgia, evoking the spirit of sharing sweet memories with family and friends. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get whisking! You’re going to love creating these beautiful Red Velvet Cookie Bars.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Just about 45 minutes from prep to plate means you won’t be waiting long for sweetness!
- Irresistible Flavor: The enchanting combination of red velvet and tangy cream cheese creates pure bliss.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Their striking color and creamy topping make them the star of any dessert table!
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for any occasion—be it a snack, dessert at a gathering, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easy adaptations can be made like gluten-free flour or lower sugar for a lighter version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies; it helps create a soft, chewy texture. Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder: Adds a depth of flavor without overpowering the classic red velvet taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise a bit for that perfect soft-baked texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the vinegar to give these bars a slight lift and nice crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creaminess gives the cookie bars their rich flavor. Avoid using margarine for best results.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the lovely texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark): For depth of flavor and a touch of moisture that white sugar alone doesn’t provide.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
- 1 large egg yolk: Extra yolk for added tenderness; a small but effective trick!
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: The hero ingredient that brings these bars to life! Gel food coloring works best for vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon vinegar (distilled or white vinegar): Activates the baking soda and enhances the red color.
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (brick style): The star of the frosting; it provides that classic cream cheese tang.
- 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and thickens it to the perfect consistency. Sift if lumpy to ensure a smooth frosting.
- 1-2 tablespoons cream: Adds creaminess to your frosting; adjust based on your thickness preference.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will make it easy to lift the bars out later.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure they’re fully blended, as this ensures a great rise and texture in your **Red Velvet Cookie Bars**!
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamed to perfection. This method should take about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar, mixing until no lumps of butter remain.
Fold Together Gently: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, starting with the mixer at low speed. Once combined, mix until there are no visible streaks of dry ingredients, but make sure not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookie bars.
Spread Dough in Pan: Spoon the vibrant dough into the prepared pan. Using wax paper between your fingers and the dough, press it into an even layer. This prevents sticking while ensuring an even bake.
Bake Until Set: Place the pan in the center of your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
Cool Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Failing to do so could lead to a melty frosting disaster—you want a nice, even layer of cream cheese frosting, after all!
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until there are no lumps. Gradually sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed. Once blended, add vanilla and salt, then continue to add powdered sugar until you’ve got your desired sweetness and thickness. You may need to incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of cream if it’s too thick.
Frost Bars: If you used parchment paper, lift the cooled bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Using a flat-edged knife, frost the bars generously. Feel free to top with sprinkles for that festive touch!
Slice Beautifully: For that Instagram-worthy picture, use a thin, sharp knife to slice your bars into uniform squares. A gentle sawing motion works best to avoid tearing!
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Red Velvet Cookie Bars fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you need them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they can keep for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture, so a quick microwave zing can help restore that lovely chew!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth batter; this helps create a nice creaminess.
- Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients to keep your bars tender.
- Use room temperature eggs for quicker incorporation and better overall mixing.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more powdered sugar to your frosting for an extra-sweet finish.
- If your frosting is too soft, place it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to stiffen up before frosting.
- These bars can also be made ahead for parties! Frost just before serving for optimal freshness.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is classic for Red Velvet Cookie Bars, you could use chocolate frosting or even a simple vanilla glaze. Just keep in mind how flavors blend when you’re choosing an alternative!
How can I make these gluten-free?
You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any added xanthan gum or binding agents.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes! Chocolate chips would add a delightful extra layer of sweetness and texture. Just fold in about a cup of mini chocolate chips after mixing in the dry ingredients for a chocolate twist!
Why is my cookie bar dry?
Overbaking is the main culprit for dry bars. Keep an eye on the time and check for doneness a couple of minutes early. You want a toothpick poked into the center to come out with just a few moist crumbs for perfect texture!
Embrace the vibrant flavors and cozy moments that come with these Red Velvet Cookie Bars. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience waiting to be shared. Enjoy every bite!
More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes
- Dark Chocolate Mint Truffles
- Mint Oreo Chocolate Bark
- Easy Coconut Cream Cheesecake Bars for Tropical Dessert Lovers
- Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cookie Bars
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📖 Recipe Card
Red Velvet Cookie Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are a delightful treat bursting with flavor and vibrant color. Made with key ingredients like cocoa and cream cheese, they are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon vinegar (distilled or white vinegar)
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (brick style)
- 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch pan.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add egg, egg yolk, vanilla, food coloring, and vinegar to the mixture and mix well.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Spread the dough in the prepared pan evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Let bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Beat cream cheese and butter, gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Frost cooled bars and slice into squares.
Notes
Store bars at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Adjust frosting thickness by adding cream if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
