Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Red Velvet Cookie Bars are an inviting and fun dessert you can whip up any time you want to impress your friends or family. The vibrant red hue catches the eye, while the soft and chewy texture keeps you coming back for more. And let’s not forget about that luscious cream cheese frosting that crowns these bars—it’s the cherry on top! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookie bars strike the right balance between comforting and indulgent. Plus, baking them is easier than you might think. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on creating these delightful treats that are sure to bring smiles all around!

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Red Velvet Cookie Bars lies in the perfect combination of texture and flavor. First off, the soft and chewy nature creates a delightful experience with every bite. It’s like a hug from your favorite dessert! Then, when you add cocoa powder, the red velvet flavor really shines through, giving it that rich and unique taste we love. And the best part? The cream cheese frosting! It introduces a tangy contrast that beautifully complements the sweetness of the bars. Together, they create a dessert that’s bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookie Bars

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Red Velvet Cookie Bars. To start, they are incredibly simple to bake. You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen; anyone can whip them up with ease! Plus, their stunning vibrant color makes them an eye-catching centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or just wanting to enjoy a sweet treat, these bars are perfect for sharing or for indulging yourself—they truly are the best of both worlds!

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, light or dark
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk (in addition to the full egg)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1/2 teaspoon vinegar (distilled or white vinegar)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (brick style)
• 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sift if lumpy)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons cream (if needed)

Preparing the Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial because it sets the stage for even baking. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Trust me, this little tip will save you a lot of hassle!

Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking helps to ensure everything is combined well, which makes for a great texture.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

Now it’s time to cream together the butter and sugars. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix on medium speed until it becomes creamy and well combined. This creates the base for your cookie bars that makes them oh-so-delicious!

Add the Eggs and Flavorings

After that, add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Beat this mixture until it’s smooth and free of any lumps of butter. Just think about how good it’s going to taste!

Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Mixing on low speed works best here. Continue until you don’t see any lumps or streaks of flour left. You want it smooth and homogenous for that perfect bite.

Transfer to the Pan

Now, spoon the dough into your prepared pan. Spread it into an even layer. To avoid sticking, you can use a piece of wax paper to press it into place. It’s an easy trick that makes a big difference!

Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know when they’re ready because the top will look set, and the edges will start to pull away from the pan. It’s all about that golden finish!

Cool the Bars

Once they’re done, remove the cookie bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This is important—you want them to be nice and cool before frosting. While you’re waiting, you can always think about how amazing they will taste!

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the Frosting Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. You want that perfect, creamy texture for your frosting.

Add Powdered Sugar and Flavoring

Next, sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar along with the vanilla extract and salt. Start mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud! Gradually increase the speed as it all comes together.

Adjust Sweetness and Thickness

If the frosting feels thin, gradually mix in the remaining powdered sugar in 1/2 cup increments until it reaches your desired sweetness and thickness. If needed, you can add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cream to adjust the consistency. Aim for that luxurious look!

Frost the Cookie Bars

Once the cookie bars have fully cooled, it’s frosting time! Use a flat-edged knife to spread the frosting evenly across the top. If you feel fancy, sprinkle some decorations on top for that finishing touch.

Slice and Serve

To serve, grab a thin, sharp knife and slice the bars into squares. Arrange them nicely on a plate to draw everyone in. They look as good as they taste!

Serving Suggestions

These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are delightfully versatile. Serve them warm for a melty treat that will take your breath away! Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that’s hard to beat. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.

Tips for Success

Here are a couple of tips to make sure your cookie bars turn out perfectly. First, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve the best texture. Also, avoid overmixing after adding the flour. Doing so can make the bars tough, and nobody wants that!

Variations

Feel like experimenting? Add white chocolate chips or nuts for an extra texture boost! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even swirl in a raspberry or chocolate sauce before baking for a delightful twist.

Storage Tips

Store your Red Velvet Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week to keep that freshness. If you happen to have leftovers, though, I doubt they’ll last long!

Pairing Ideas

For the ultimate indulgence, pair these bars with a cup of coffee or dessert wines. They also go well alongside fresh berries. The berries balance the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable!

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free.

2. How can I store leftover cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate to extend freshness.

3. Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before serving.

4. What can I use instead of food coloring?
You can try beet juice for a natural alternative, though the color might vary.

5. How do I make the frosting more stable?
Add more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency, or use less cream if it’s too runny.

Red velvet cookie bars are a delightful treat that combines the classic red velvet flavor with the fun of cookie bars. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. With a rich, chewy base topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, these bars will surely please any crowd. Plus, they are straightforward to make! Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving them with your favorite beverages. Your baking journey with these red velvet cookie bars will undoubtedly be a hit!

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