Soft Red Velvet Cookies are what cookie dreams are made of. These little bites of joy combine the rich cocoa flavor of red velvet cake with the soft, chewy texture that makes cookies so irresistible. They’re perfect for any time you want to impress with a beautiful dessert, especially around Valentine’s Day or the holiday season when red velvet’s vibrant color shines brightest.

But don’t let the festive hue fool you—these cookies are welcome at any gathering or weekday craving. With a subtle chocolate base and a hint of tang, each bite delivers cozy comfort and a touch of elegance. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Red Velvet Cookies Recipe

This cookie recipe gives you bakery-style results without the need for a stand mixer or fancy ingredients. You get all the flavor of a classic red velvet cake in portable, snackable cookie form. These cookies stay soft for days and freeze beautifully too. Their velvety crumb, balanced sweetness, and optional white chocolate chunks make them a go-to for cookie lovers.

The texture magic comes from a blend of brown sugar, a touch of cornstarch, and not overbaking. Brown sugar adds moisture and chew, while cornstarch softens the cookie dough structure. And just like with brownies, pulling them out while the centers still look slightly underdone ensures they set to soft perfection as they cool.

Ingredients for the Soft Red Velvet Cookies

Name: Soft Red Velvet Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-492144H34M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 3/4 cup white chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

You don’t need anything fancy to make these cookies, but each ingredient plays an important role in flavor and texture.

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Cornstarch
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Red food coloring
White chocolate chips or chunks (optional but highly recommended)

Each of these ingredients is carefully measured to bring out that signature soft-baked red velvet flavor. Cocoa adds depth, while red coloring creates the visual appeal we expect. White chocolate contrasts beautifully, both visually and in flavor.

How To Make the Soft Red Velvet Cookies

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly dispersed and lump-free.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This step builds a soft texture and sweet caramel notes.

Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Food Coloring

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, then stir in red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade. Go bright for a festive look, or tone it down for a more muted cookie.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix here—you want the dough to stay tender.

Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate (Optional)

Fold in white chocolate chips or chunks if using. These add creamy bites of sweetness that balance the mild cocoa base.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes. This step helps the cookies keep their shape and enhances flavor.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They’ll continue to set up as they cool.

Serving and Storing Soft Red Velvet Cookies

This recipe makes about 18 to 20 cookies, enough for a small crowd or to stock your cookie jar for the week. Serve them as-is, or elevate with a drizzle of melted white chocolate. They’re also delicious paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.

To store, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well: place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag and enjoy them for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Soft Red Velvet Cookies?

Classic Cold Milk

Nothing beats warm cookies with a glass of chilled milk. Simple and nostalgic.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Make mini ice cream sandwiches or serve one warm cookie with a scoop for a dreamy dessert.

Cream Cheese Frosting Dip

Serve the cookies with a little dish of cream cheese frosting as a fun dunking option.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The slight bitterness of coffee pairs well with the cookie’s sweetness.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries or strawberries make the red velvet flavor pop.

White Chocolate Mocha

A cozy drink that mirrors the cookie’s creamy-sweet richness.

Crumbled Over a Cheesecake

Use leftover cookies as a topping for cheesecake or trifle desserts.

If you love these Soft Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a sweet cinnamon surprise.
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies if you like your cookies rich and gooey.
Classic French Butter Cookies when you’re in the mood for simple elegance.
Lemon Truffles Recipe for a citrusy twist on your dessert spread.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake if soft texture is what you’re always chasing.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use the white chocolate? Did you chill the dough longer for extra thickness?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to treat!

Conclusion

These Soft Red Velvet Cookies deliver all the nostalgic warmth of red velvet cake in an easy, cookie-sized package. With their bold color, balanced cocoa flavor, and tender bite, they’re destined to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply treating yourself.