Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling are soft, chewy, and filled with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These cookies have the perfect balance of mild cocoa flavor and tangy-sweet filling, making them a must-have treat for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. Their vibrant red color and creamy center make them a stunning and delicious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Chewy Cookies – Perfectly textured with a hint of cocoa.
Decadent Cream Cheese Filling – Smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy.
Beautiful & Festive – Great for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or any celebration.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward process.
Customizable – Add mix-ins, drizzle with chocolate, or change the filling flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Red Velvet Cookies:

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Red food coloring
Buttermilk
White vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Cookies

Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter & Sugar – Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Stir in buttermilk and vinegar.
Combine Wet & Dry – Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop & Bake – Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake – Bake for 8-10 minutes, until set but still soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat Cream Cheese & Butter – In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add Powdered Sugar & Vanilla – Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy.

Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Fill the Cookies – Spread or pipe cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie.
Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-14 sandwich cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cookies.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
Extra Flavor: Mix in cinnamon or espresso powder for depth.
Stuffed Cookies: Place a small piece of chocolate in the center before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze assembled cookies for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Serving Tip: Let cookies sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

Yes, but homemade has the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, but you may need to use more to get a vibrant red color.

What’s the best way to fill the cookies neatly?

Use a piping bag for even filling distribution.

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cookies in advance and assemble them later.

Can I use a different filling?

Yes! Try peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, or chocolate ganache.

How do I make these cookies extra soft?

Use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overbaking.

What’s the best cocoa powder for red velvet?

Use natural cocoa powder for a classic red velvet taste.

Can I make mini sandwich cookies?

Yes! Use a smaller scoop and adjust baking time to 6-8 minutes.

Can I make these cookies without buttermilk?

Yes, substitute with milk mixed with ½ teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling are a delightful, festive treat that combines soft, chewy cookies with a luscious, tangy filling. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, special event, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. Try different variations, decorate them for extra flair, and enjoy this delicious homemade dessert!