Delicious red velvet cookies combining the rich flavors of cocoa and the iconic red hue, perfect for any dessert lover.

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

Pinch of salt

1 cup granulated sugar

1 stick softened butter

1 large egg

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Red food coloring

Cream cheese (for frosting, optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and food coloring to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Frost with cream cheese frosting if desired.

Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies. Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze unbaked dough for later use.

Keywords: red velvet, cookies, dessert, holiday baking, sweet treat