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Red Velvet Sugar Cookies

Close-up of red velvet sugar cookies stacked and arranged on parchment paper, with a sugar-coated surface and soft texture.

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Soft, chewy, and vibrant red velvet sugar cookies with a hint of cocoa and buttery sweetness, perfect for holidays or everyday treats.

Ingredients

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  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring (adjust to preference)
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the egg, vanilla, vinegar, and buttermilk. Beat until smooth.
  5. Mix in the red gel food coloring until evenly combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Fold in white chocolate chips if using.
  8. Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
  9. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  10. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers appear slightly soft.
  11. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for vibrant red color without altering dough texture.
  • Do not overbake — cookies will continue cooking as they cool.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • To make sandwich cookies, fill with cream cheese frosting.
  • At high altitudes, increase baking temperature by 15°F and reduce sugar slightly.

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