As I watched the vibrant red batter swirl together in my mixing bowl, excitement bubbled up inside me. Today, I was diving into the world of Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies—a treat that beautifully marries the rich flavors of a classic red velvet cupcake with the delightful crunch of a cookie. This recipe not only brings quick prep-time magic into your kitchen but also impresses with its bakery-quality taste, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create cookies that are both eye-catching and utterly addictive. Ready to experience the joy of homemade dessert like never before? Let’s get baking!
Why Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: Get ready for a deliciously decadent experience! Each cookie boasts the essence of a red velvet cupcake combined with luscious cream cheese frosting.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up these treats without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends.
Eye-Catching Treats: Their stunning red color and frosty finish make them a showstopper on any dessert table.
Fun Baking Project: This is a delightful way to involve kids or friends in the kitchen, making baking a fun bonding activity!
Dive into the joy of homemade baking with these Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies; your taste buds will thank you!
Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- ½ cup softened butter – adds richness for a tender texture.
- ⅔ cup brown sugar – gives a slight molasses flavor and moisture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies and balances flavors.
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together for a soft cookie.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar – activates the baking soda and adds a hint of tang.
- 1–2 teaspoons red gel food coloring – creates that signature red velvet look.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder – provides depth with a mild chocolate flavor.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – forms the base structure of the cookies.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances all the other flavors in the dough.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – helps in achieving a softer, chewy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – gives the cookies their perfect rise.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – adds a rich and creamy texture to the frosting.
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened – contributes to a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – complements the cream cheese for added flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – provides sweetness and thickens the frosting.
Now you have all the essential ingredients to create delightful Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies that are sure to dazzle your loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your delicious cookies. This step is crucial to achieve the perfect bake for your Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened butter, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The creamy consistency will create a rich base for your cookies, setting the stage for the delightful flavor ahead.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Once your butter and sugars are perfectly combined, add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of red gel food coloring. Mix these ingredients on medium speed until the color is uniformly distributed and the mixture is velvety smooth, creating that iconic red velvet allure in your cookie dough.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed, helping to eliminate clumps of cocoa or flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients in the mixing bowl.
Step 5: Mix the Dough
Gently mix the cookie dough until just combined, being careful not to overwork it. You want the dough to be cohesive and slightly sticky, with no visible flour remaining. This step is crucial for creating the tender texture of your Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies—ensure everything is incorporated but don’t beat it excessively.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out 9 large balls of dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly flatten each ball to about ½ inch thick, ensuring they're evenly spaced out on the sheet to allow for spreading during baking. This shapes your cookies perfectly for an even bake and showcases their beautiful red color.
Step 7: Bake Your Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—your cookies should look set around the edges while the centers may still look slightly underbaked. This will give you that chewy interior that pairs beautifully with the frosting later on.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes. You want them to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important to prevent them from breaking apart before they're completely cool.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
While your cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 3 tablespoons of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, whipping the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it's fluffy and ready to spread on your cookies.
Step 10: Frost and Garnish the Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, generously frost each one with the cream cheese frosting. For a finishing touch, sprinkle crushed red velvet cookie crumbs over the frosting for added texture and visual appeal. Your Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies are now ready to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by forming the balls, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating them. This keeps the dough fresh and ready to bake whenever you need a sweet treat. If you're looking to prep even further ahead, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; just be sure to let them cool completely to maintain their softness. When you're ready to enjoy, simply frost them with cream cheese frosting and garnish for a deliciously fresh dessert!
What to Serve with Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies?
Indulging in the rich, velvety goodness of these cookies paves the way for a delightful dessert experience that can be truly elevated.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, soft cookies, turning each bite into bliss.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a splash of color and a tart freshness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Milk or Chocolate Milk: A classic pairing! The rich, creamy texture of milk enhances the nostalgic cookie experience, making you feel like a kid again.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries, bananas, or even apple slices dipped in chocolate bring a delightful chocolate touch alongside the cookie’s flavors.
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Decadent Brownie Sundae: Layer a warm brownie under a scoop of vanilla ice cream and top with the red velvet cookie crumbles for a show-stopping dessert!
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Coffee or Espresso: The deep, bold flavors of coffee pair beautifully, enhancing the chocolate notes and giving a little caffeine kick to your dessert break.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of homemade or store-bought caramel over your cookies adds an extra layer of gooey sweetness that’s hard to resist.
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Hot Cocoa: On a cozy night in, warming up with a rich hot cocoa alongside your cookies creates the ultimate comforting dessert experience.
These pairing suggestions will heighten your red velvet cookie enjoyment, inviting a full, multi-sensory dessert journey!
Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
Go for a brand that mimics the texture of cream cheese perfectly, ensuring your cookies stay lush and creamy. -
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cookie that everyone can enjoy.
Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free to keep the integrity of your treats intact. -
Chocolate Lovers: Enhance the cocoa flavor by adding ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
The melted chocolate will add an extra layer of indulgence, turning each bite into a rich experience! -
Nutty Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch.
Their earthy flavor will beautifully complement the sweetness of the cookies, giving them a rustic charm. -
Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a warm, spicy flavor surprise!
These spices can elevate the cookie experience, adding depth without overpowering the signature red velvet taste. -
More Cream Cheese Frosting: Don’t hold back; double the frosting recipe for extra decadence atop your cookies!
Generous frosting makes for an even more indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or when you just want more sweetness. -
Cookie Sandwiches: Create delightful sandwich cookies by adding a layer of frosting between two cookies.
These indulgent treats elevate your cookie game while providing a delightful surprise with every bite! -
Fun Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch and extra texture.
They're perfect for birthdays or celebrations, bringing a joyful pop of color and excitement!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape better while baking.
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Use Gel Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring over liquid to achieve a vibrant red hue without adding too much moisture to the dough.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can lead to a less desirable texture.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour; too much flour can make the cookies dry.
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Cool Cookies Completely: Ensure cookies are completely cooled before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off their tops.
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Add a Touch of Cocoa: For extra chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon or two of cocoa powder to the frosting for a richer taste in your Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies.
Storage Tips for Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from getting stale.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for optimal preservation. Frost before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This makes them soft and chewy, just like fresh-baked Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies!
Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of food coloring is best for Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using gel food coloring rather than liquid food coloring. Gel food coloring provides a vibrant red hue without adding extra moisture to the dough, helping you achieve that classic red velvet look perfectly!
How should I store Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week! Remember to keep them sealed so they don't soak up any unwanted odors.
Can I freeze Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies?
Very! You can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for efficient storage. Frost them after thawing for the best taste and texture!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that your cookie dough is too sticky to manage, it may be because your butter was too soft or there’s too much moisture in your mixture. If this happens, I suggest chilling the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle, and you'll still get that soft, chewy cookie!
Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! These cookies contain gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter and cream cheese. If you're baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting gluten-free flour and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. It’s always best to double-check specific brands to ensure they meet dietary needs!
Indulgent Crumbl Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies You’ll Love
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- ½ cup softened butter adds richness for a tender texture
- ⅔ cup brown sugar gives a slight molasses flavor and moisture
- ½ cup granulated sugar sweetens the cookies and balances flavors
- 1 large egg binds the ingredients together for a soft cookie
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and aroma
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar activates the baking soda and adds a hint of tang
- 1–2 teaspoons red gel food coloring creates that signature red velvet look
- ¼ cup cocoa powder provides depth with a mild chocolate flavor
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour forms the base structure of the cookies
- ¼ teaspoon salt enhances all the other flavors in the dough
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch helps in achieving a softer, chewy texture
- ½ teaspoon baking powder gives the cookies their perfect rise
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened adds a rich and creamy texture to the frosting
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened contributes to a smooth, spreadable consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract complements the cream cheese for added flavor
- 1 cup powdered sugar provides sweetness and thickens the frosting
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red gel food coloring. Mix until uniform.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out large balls of dough and flatten them slightly before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, ensuring the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by creaming together softened cream cheese and butter, then add in powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once cookies are cool, frost them generously with cream cheese frosting and garnish if desired.
