Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that feels like a little party in your mouth, let me introduce you to the Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies are irresistibly soft, boasting a gorgeous pink hue that’s as charming as their flavor. The luscious cream cheese frosting on top perfectly balances the tender cake-like cookie base, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and celebratory. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten up your day, this recipe is an absolute gem that will quickly become a favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity — every ingredient plays an essential role in creating the tender texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor you’ve been dreaming of. Each one is easy to find but indispensable for making these cookies shine.

• 1 box white cake mix (15.25 ounces): The foundation of these cookies, giving them sweet flavor and a soft, velvet texture perfect for every bite.
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour: Adds structure and balances moisture, ensuring your cookies hold together beautifully without drying out.
• ⅓ cup melted butter: Brings richness and a chewy texture that keeps these cookies wonderfully satisfying.
• 2 large eggs: Serve as the glue that binds ingredients, adding moisture and helping the cookies rise just right.
• 1 tablespoon pink food coloring: Injects that signature rosy glow, making your cookies look as fun as they taste.
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese: The star of the frosting, lending tanginess and a creamy smoothness that melts on your tongue.
• ¼ cup softened butter: Works with cream cheese to create a luxuriously creamy frosting that spreads effortlessly.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm depth to both cookies and frosting, amplifying all the flavors.
• 3 ½ to 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency, customizable to your preferred sweetness.
• Milk (as needed): A splash or two helps achieve the ideal spreadable frosting texture.

How to Make Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is a key step, ensuring the heat is just right so your cookies bake evenly and develop that signature soft and slightly chewy center.

Step 2: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the white cake mix, all-purpose flour, eggs, melted butter, pink food coloring, and vanilla extract. This combination forms a cohesive dough where every bite will have the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Using a mixer here helps to blend everything thoroughly.

Step 3: Shape the Dough into Cookies

Use about ¼ cup of dough per cookie and shape them into thick discs. This even sizing ensures uniform baking, giving each cookie that soft center and slightly crisp edge everyone loves.

Step 4: Arrange Cookies on the Baking Sheet

Place your dough discs on a silicone mat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Proper spacing encourages even cooking by allowing heat to circulate freely.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye out for when the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. This timing keeps the cookies tender and chewy, avoiding dryness.

Step 6: Cool the Cookies Completely

Allow your fresh-baked cookies to cool fully on the baking sheet. This step is important so the cookies firm up gently without breaking apart, readying them for the frosting.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This smooth base makes the frosting luscious and easy to spread.

Step 8: Sweeten and Adjust Frosting Consistency

Gradually add powdered sugar to your mixture, mixing until you reach your desired thickness. Add milk in small amounts if needed to make the frosting perfectly pipeable.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and decorate each cooled cookie as you wish. This step turns simple cookies into stunning treats that look as amazing as they taste.

Step 10: Add a Final Decorative Touch

Sprinkle cookie crumbs atop the frosted cookies to add texture and a charming rustic look. This little extra step adds visual interest and a delicious crunch.

Step 11: Store and Enjoy

Keep your Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe creations fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

How to Serve Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For an added flair, try garnishing your cookies with edible glitter, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts. These touches not only enhance the look but also introduce subtle flavor contrasts that elevate the whole experience.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, a glass of cold milk, or a rich hot chocolate. The creamy frosting complements these beverages perfectly, making your snack or dessert moment a little more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is part of the joy! Arrange your pink velvet cookies on a tiered cake stand for celebrations, or present them in pretty boxes tied with ribbons to give as thoughtful gifts. You can even stack them with parchment paper between layers for a charming homemade gift look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover cookies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cookies moist and the frosting intact, preserving their delightful texture for up to four days.

Freezing

Want to make these ahead for a party or just to have on hand? You can freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw and frost as usual for fresh-baked taste anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy the cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This gently softens the cookie and frosting without melting the frosting away, giving you that just-baked feeling with minimal effort.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes! While white cake mix is recommended for the best color and texture, you can experiment with vanilla or even funfetti cake mix for a playful twist. Just keep in mind the color and flavor will vary.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Adding powdered sugar gradually and chilling the frosting if needed can help keep it firm. If it still feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before piping to stiffen up.

Can I make these cookies without cream cheese frosting?

Definitely! While the cream cheese frosting is a highlight, these cookies are delicious on their own or with a simple glaze if you prefer a lighter finish.

What if I don’t have pink food coloring?

You can substitute with red food coloring, but add it sparingly since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, natural options like beet powder may give a subtle pink tint.

Are these cookies suitable for a large batch bake?

Absolutely! The recipe scales well, just be sure to space the cookies properly on multiple baking sheets and watch the baking time closely as it might vary slightly with larger batches.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Pink Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe because it really is one of those special treats that brings joy with every bite. The way the soft, colorful cookies meet the creamy, tangy frosting is simply magical. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just because, these cookies will brighten up your day and become an instant favorite. So get your mixing bowl ready — your new favorite cookie adventure awaits!

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