There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary, and that’s exactly what these Red Velvet Cookie Bars deliver. With their lush, velvety texture and a pop of red that shouts celebration, these bars are bound to brighten up any gathering. I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with leftover cocoa powder and food coloring one rainy afternoon. What started as an attempt to ward off boredom turned into a delightful sweet treat that quickly became a favorite among friends and family.
Whether you’re looking for a stunning dessert for a potluck or a simple sweet to enjoy with your evening coffee, these cookie bars are the perfect answer. They strike a wonderful balance between rich flavor and effortless charm, making them an ideal solution for those tired of the same old desserts. Plus, can you ever have too many reasons to indulge in a luscious cream cheese frosting? Join me as we whip up this easy-to-follow recipe that brings joy to both the baker and the lucky taste testers!
Why are Red Velvet Cookie Bars a must-try?
Decadent Texture: Each bite is a delightful blend of chewy cookie and creamy frosting.
Vibrant Appeal: The rich red color makes these bars a showstopper at any gathering.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this treat.
Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, holidays, or even a cozy night in with friends.
Crowd Favorite: Their unique flavor profile ensures they’ll be a hit with loved ones, leaving no crumbs behind!
Red Velvet Cookie Bars Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- All-purpose flour – 2 1/4 cups provides the perfect structure for your bars.
- Cocoa powder – 3 tablespoons adds a rich, chocolatey flavor to balance the sweetness.
- Baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon works with baking soda to achieve the right lift.
- Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon ensures your bars are tender and airy.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened, gives a delightful texture and rich taste.
- Granulated sugar – 3/4 cup adds sweetness and helps create the perfect cookie base.
- Brown sugar – 1/2 cup light or dark for a touch of molasses flavor and chewiness.
- Large egg – 1 binds all the ingredients together while adding moisture.
- Large egg yolk – 1 provides richness for that soft, fudgy texture.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons adds warm and sweet fragrance to the bars.
- Red food coloring – 1 tablespoon brings the signature vibrant color to your Red Velvet Cookie Bars.
- Vinegar – 1/2 teaspoon enhances the red color reaction and adds a subtle tang.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup, softened, creates a creamy, smooth frosting.
- Full-fat cream cheese – 8 ounces is essential for that classic creamy flavor in your frosting.
- Powdered sugar – 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups to sweeten your frosting to perfection; adjust to taste as needed.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness of your frosting.
- Cream – 1-2 tablespoons can be added to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are not only visually stunning but also a fantastic treat to share or enjoy on your own!
How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect bake, so don’t skip it! Lightly grease a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Combine 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well mixed. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
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Cream the sugars and butter. In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the wet ingredients. Beat in 1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon red food coloring, and 1/2 teaspoon vinegar until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
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Combine mixtures. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter cream mixture, mixing until no lumps remain. The dough should be thick and well incorporated.
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Spread the dough into the prepared pan, using a spatula to create an even layer. This step helps ensure your Red Velvet Cookie Bars bake evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top looks set and the edges pull away from the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will make frosting easier and prevent it from melting into the warm bars.
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Beat together the frosting ingredients. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Sift and mix in the powdered sugar. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a splash of vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until combined.
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Adjust sweetness. Gradually add more powdered sugar as needed, up to 3 1/2 cups total, to reach your desired sweetness. If the frosting is too thick, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cream for the perfect consistency.
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Frost the bars. Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. Then, slice them into squares with a sharp knife for serving.
Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze uncut bars wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and frosting when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If you want a warm treat, pop a refrigerated or thawed bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that fresh-baked softness flow back!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cookie Bars?
Elevate your dessert table and create a delightful sweet experience to pair with these gorgeous cookie bars.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing element to your treat. A colorful berry medley brings balance and vibrant contrast to every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides an indulgent twist that melts beautifully over the warm cookie bars, enhancing their rich flavors.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate sauce drizzled over the bars adds decadence and a touch of elegance that coffee lovers will adore. It’s a great way to elevate your dessert and satisfy that sweet tooth.
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Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of a steaming cup of espresso complement the sweet and creamy notes of the cookie bars. Sipping on a warm beverage while enjoying these treats makes for a cozy pairing.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this vegan alternative brings a tropical flair to your dessert. The subtle coconut taste pairs wonderfully with the rich cream cheese frosting.
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Red Wine: A glass of sweet red wine makes for a sophisticated pairing that deepens the celebration of flavors. Its notes complement the chocolate and vanilla in the cookie bars, creating a memorable experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling golden caramel over the bars adds a chewy texture and sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the rich cream cheese frosting. This combination is sure to impress your guests.
These pairings not only enhance the joy of the Red Velvet Cookie Bars but also create a memorable dessert experience for any occasion!
Red Velvet Cookie Bars Variations
Customize your confection with these delightful spins to make your Red Velvet Cookie Bars even more irresistible!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix for a tender, gluten-free treat!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and rich flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: For added flavor, create a cream cheese swirl by dolloping half the frosting into the batter before baking and gently swirling it in with a knife.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of mint extract into the batter for a refreshing twist that takes your dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a warm aromatic undertone that pairs surprisingly well with the cream cheese frosting.
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Fruit Infusion: Toss in 1/2 cup of crushed raspberries or chopped strawberries into the cookie batter for a fruity brightness that pops among the rich flavors.
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Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to create a lower-sugar version of these bars without sacrificing the rich taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and let cool, then cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just make sure to give it a good stir before frosting to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cooled bars, slice them into portions, and enjoy a decadent treat that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
Tips for the Best Red Velvet Cookie Bars
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing, preventing lumps in your frosting.
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Correct Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven as instructed. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and undercooked centers.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Overmixing can result in tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
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Cool Properly: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm bars can lead to a melted, messy topping.
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Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Since everyone’s preference varies, start with 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar for the frosting. Gradually add more until you find the perfect sweetness for your palate.
Red Velvet Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use ingredients that are at room temperature, especially the unsalted butter and eggs. This helps with blending and creates a fluffier texture in your cookie bars. For the cream cheese, ensure it’s also softened so it mixes smoothly with the butter in your frosting.
How should I store my Red Velvet Cookie Bars?
Very simple! You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for that perfect taste!
Can I freeze the Red Velvet Cookie Bars?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the uncut bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and frost them for a delightful treat!
What should I do if my bars come out too dry?
If your cookie bars turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to check the bars a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. They should look set but still slightly soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool. If all else fails, serving them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting can cover up any dryness beautifully!
Are Red Velvet Cookie Bars safe for pets or those with allergies?
Not recommended for pets, as chocolate and sugar aren’t good for them. If you have any allergies, make sure to substitute ingredients. For instance, gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check labels to avoid common allergens in your ingredients!
Irresistible Red Velvet Cookie Bars Perfect for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well mixed.
- In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in 1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon red food coloring, and 1/2 teaspoon vinegar until mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until no lumps remain.
- Spread the dough into the prepared pan with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top looks set and edges pull away from the pan.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a large bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined.
- Adjust sweetness if needed with additional powdered sugar and if frosting is too thick, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cream.
- Once bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top, then slice into squares to serve.