Name: Red Velvet Blossom Cookies: Chewy Treats for Sweet Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can replace with brown sugar for depth); ½ cup Butter (room temperature) (Ensure it's softened for easy creaming); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binding agent); 1 tablespoon Milk (Any dairy or plant-based milk works well); 1 tablespoon Red Food Coloring (Consider using a natural alternative); 1.5 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (Always opt for pure for best results); 1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute gluten-free flour); ¼ cup Unsweetened Cocoa; ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; ¼ teaspoon Kosher Salt (Sea salt can be a substitute); 1 cup Dove Chocolate Hearts (Can substitute with Hershey’s Kisses); 1 cup Red Sprinkling Sugar/Sprinkles (For rolling the dough)

As I pulled the first batch of cookies from the oven, the kitchen was filled with a sweet, chocolatey aroma that made my heart skip a beat. These Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are not just a treat; they’re the perfect way to celebrate love, whether it’s Valentine’s Day or simply a cozy night in. With their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, they’re rolled in festive sprinkles and crowned with Dove chocolate hearts, turning any moment into a special occasion. What’s even better? They come together quickly and easily, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Ready to impress your loved ones with these delightful cookies? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Red Velvet Blossom Cookies special?

Irresistible combination of flavors: These cookies blend rich chocolate and a hint of vanilla, creating a mouthwatering taste that leaves you wanting more.

Chewy texture elevates every bite—each cookie is soft and cake-like, making them perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Festive flair is added with eye-catching red color and vibrant sprinkles, ideal for any celebration or cozy gathering.

Quick and easy to prepare, you can have these cookies ready in no time, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions!

Perfect for sharing, they’ll impress friends and family alike, making them a great dessert for gatherings or just a sweet treat to brighten someone’s day. Don’t forget to check out other festive treats, like Pumpkin Oat Cookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies, for even more baking inspiration!

Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Dove Chocolate Hearts – Adds a rich chocolate flavor and a decorative touch; substitute with Hershey’s Kisses for variety.
• Butter (½ cup, room temperature) – Provides moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming with sugar.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their chewy texture; can replace with brown sugar for depth.
• Large Egg (1) – Acts as a binding agent, providing structure to the cookies.
• Milk (1 tablespoon) – Adds moisture to the dough; any dairy or plant-based milk works well.
• Red Food Coloring (1 tablespoon) – Intensifies the cookie’s color, making them visually appealing; consider using a natural alternative.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 ½ teaspoons) – Enhances the flavor; always opt for pure for the best outcome.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ¾ cups) – Provides structure for the cookies; can substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Unsweetened Cocoa (¼ cup) – Adds depth of flavor and rich chocolatey taste.
• Baking Soda (½ teaspoon) – Helps cookies rise, acting as a leavening agent.
• Kosher Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness; sea salt can be used as a substitute.
• Red Sprinkling Sugar/Sprinkles – For rolling the dough, giving a festive look; any colorful sprinkles can add variety.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Hearts
Start by placing the Dove Chocolate Hearts in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This is crucial to prevent them from melting during baking, ensuring that these treats maintain their delightful, gooey center. While they freeze, gather your other ingredients to streamline the process and make assembling the Red Velvet Blossom Cookies a breeze.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step sets the perfect baking environment for our cookies. You’ll know the oven is ready when it reaches the desired temperature, helping the Red Velvet Blossom Cookies bake evenly and giving them that perfect, chewy texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a handheld or stand mixer for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The consistency should be smooth, with the sugar fully incorporated into the butter. This fluffy base contributes to the rich flavor and chewy texture of your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add the large egg, milk, red food coloring, and pure vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat everything together on medium speed until fully combined and smooth. The mixture should turn a vibrant red color, signaling that your cookies will have that eye-catching hue. This step infuses the dough with moisture and flavor, essential for a delightful treat.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. This step ensures that your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies have a balanced sweetness and deep chocolate flavor.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Once formed, roll each ball in the red sprinkling sugar to give them a festive appearance. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. This step is where the magic begins, as they will expand and puff up beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Bake and Add Chocolate Hearts
Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Once they’re puffed slightly and the edges are set, remove them from the oven. While they’re still warm, gently press a frozen Dove Chocolate Heart into the center of each cookie. This step elevates your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies, creating a delightful centerpiece with that rich chocolatey goodness.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack, which will take about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time lets the chocolate hearts maintain their shape while the cookies firm up nicely, enhancing their chewy texture. Once cooled, enjoy these stunning Red Velvet Blossom Cookies with a glass of milk or share them with loved ones for a sweet treat!

Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Variations

Unleash your creativity with these Red Velvet Blossom Cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Chocolate Swap: Substitute Dove Chocolate Hearts with Hershey’s Kisses for a different flavor twist. Each bite will offer a sweet surprise!
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the chewy cookie beautifully. The nutty crunch adds an exciting contrast to the moist cookie dough.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive treats without worry!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use vegan butter. Enjoy the same delicious taste while keeping it plant-based.
Colorful Fun: Experiment with different colors of food coloring to match any occasion, from pastel for spring to deep blue for a winter holiday. This fun twist transforms the cookies into a vibrant celebration!
Extra Chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an overload of chocolatey goodness. Each bite will be packed with melty chocolate, making them irresistible.
Cornstarch Magic: Mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch to help achieve an even softer texture. This little trick can make your cookies cake-like and oh-so-tempting!
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm flavor note. The spices elevate the overall essence of the cookies for a delightful twist.

Feel free to explore these variations and create your perfect batch of Red Velvet Blossom Cookies! And if you’re looking for more festive inspiration, check out these delicious Pumpkin Oat Cookies or indulge in our classic Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors with minimal fuss! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by shaping it into balls and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain their quality, make sure to roll the dough in sprinkles just before baking to ensure they stick perfectly. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and place the chilled dough directly on the baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then press the frozen Dove chocolate hearts into the center, and enjoy fresh, chewy cookies that are just as delicious as if you made them on the spot!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

Treat your senses to a delightful spread that pairs beautifully with these enchanting cookies!

Cold Milk: The classic companion; its rich creaminess accentuates the chewy chocolate goodness of each cookie.
Hot Chocolate: A warm, decadent drink that enhances the chocolate flavor and makes snuggling up with a cookie even cozier.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy contrast is heavenly; the smooth texture balances the chewy cookie while adding a sweet, cold element.
Strawberry Shortcake: Introduce a fresh, fruity flavor that beautifully complements the rich chocolate and the festive sprinkles.
Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, providing an inviting contrast.
Sparkling Rosé: Celebrate any special occasion with bubbly that enhances the festive vibe and makes every bite feel elegant.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of the cookies into a warm chocolate river for an indulgent treat; it’s sure to impress at gatherings!
Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a light layer on the cookies for an added creamy texture and a touch of tanginess that intrigues the palate.
Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes perfectly balance the sweetness of the cookies, making it a delightful pairing for any coffee lover.

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Dough Storage: You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months as well.

Reheating: To enjoy your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies later, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their lovely chewy texture.

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

• Soft Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients; this ensures even mixing and contributes to the cookies’ soft texture.

• Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing when combining dry and wet ingredients to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

• Chill Dough Wisely: Prevent the dough from being too cold; chilling it might hinder sprinkle adherence, affecting presentation.

• Bake Time Check: If baking from frozen dough, increase the bake time by a few minutes to achieve the perfect chewy consistency.

• Frozen Chocolate Hearts: Ensure your Dove Chocolate Hearts are solidly frozen to prevent melting; it keeps the cookies looking beautiful and delicious!

Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting red food coloring?
When choosing red food coloring for your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies, look for gel-based options, as they provide vibrant color without adding much liquid to the dough. A higher-quality brand will yield a richer hue, ensuring your cookies are visually stunning. Avoid watery liquid dyes, as they can alter the dough’s consistency and ultimately the final texture of your cookies.

How long can I store Red Velvet Blossom Cookies?
You can store your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing them to prevent moisture buildup.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for Red Velvet Blossom Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, first prepare it according to the recipe, then scoop tablespoon-sized portions and arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze the dough balls in a single layer until solid, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies are spreading too much during baking?
If your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are spreading excessively, it might be due to overly warm dough. Ensure your butter is at room temperature and not melted, as melted butter can cause your cookies to spread. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help them maintain their shape better. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour accurately; too little flour can lead to runny dough.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these cookies?
Yes! If you’re making Red Velvet Blossom Cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, you have options. For those who are gluten-sensitive, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; be sure it’s one that’s suitable for baking. Additionally, if someone has a dairy allergy, use plant-based butter and milk to make these cookies dairy-free. Always check the ingredients of the sprinkles and chocolate hearts to ensure they meet dietary needs.

How can I achieve the best chewy texture in these cookies?
To ensure your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are perfectly chewy, use room temperature ingredients, particularly butter and egg, which help maintain a soft texture. Avoid overmixing your dough, especially after adding the dry ingredients; this can create gluten and lead to tougher cookies. Lastly, baking for the correct time is crucial—don’t be tempted to leave them in the oven too long; the edges should be set, but the centers might look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the wire rack.