The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. I couldn’t help but recall the joy of indulging in classic red velvet treats, but this time, I was on a mission to recreate them as Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies. These delightful cookies meld the soft, rich flavors of red velvet cake with the satisfying chewiness of a cookie, and they’re topped off with velvety cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are a quick and easy way to elevate any dessert spread. Plus, with a gluten-free option readily available, they can cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone joins in on the deliciousness. Curious how these mouthwatering treats come together? Let’s dive right into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of red velvet and cream cheese frosting creates a taste sensation that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, anyone can whip up a batch—no advanced baking skills required!
Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up the frosting or mix-ins, like adding white chocolate chips or nuts, to put a personal spin on these cookies.
Gluten-Free Alternative: This recipe can be adapted to accommodate gluten-free diets, ensuring it’s inclusive for all your guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties, these vibrant cookies are visually stunning and satisfy every sweet tooth, making them a hit at any gathering!
Don’t forget to check out my Red Velvet Brownies for another delightfully chocolaty dessert!
Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Ingredients
• These essential ingredients will help you create the most scrumptious cookies!
For the Cookies
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easier creaming with sugars.
- Granulated Sugar – Infuses sweetness; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes to chewiness and gives a deeper flavor; dark brown sugar works wonderfully too.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients and provides structure; use medium-sized eggs for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; feel free to swap in almond extract for a different twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These leavening agents help the cookies rise beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- Cocoa Powder – Integral to achieving the red velvet flavor; opt for dark cocoa to intensify the chocolate notes.
- Red Food Coloring – Gives those classic red hues; use gel coloring for even more vibrancy.
- Vinegar – Works with baking soda for leavening and adds a unique flavor; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
- White Chocolate Chips – An optional mix-in that adds delightful sweetness and texture.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Provides the base creaminess for that luscious frosting; make sure it’s softened to room temperature.
- Butter – Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting; soften it for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the amount to achieve your desired sweetness level.
- Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor; you could also use almond or another extract to vary the taste.
Dive into the magic of creating your own Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies and set the stage for a delicious experience that will surely captivate everyone!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple step ensures a smooth baking process and a perfect base for your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Mix
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This aeration is key to achieving that delightful texture and richness in your cookies.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Once your butter and sugars are combined, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract; you’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling the air. This mixture forms a luscious base for your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Ensuring these dry ingredients are well mixed will help achieve a uniform texture in your cookies. Once combined, it’s time to bring everything together!
Step 5: Mix Together
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Incorporate the red food coloring and vinegar next—this not only gives your cookies their vibrant hue but also aids in the leavening process. If you’re adding white chocolate chips, fold them in now for added sweetness.
Step 6: Portion Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop generous portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. This spacing allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake, ensuring your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies achieve that perfect round shape.
Step 7: Bake
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should be set while the center appears slightly underbaked. This is crucial for achieving that chewy, soft texture you want in each cookie.
Step 8: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain that deliciously chewy texture.
Step 9: Prepare Frosting
While your cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable—this decadent frosting will take your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies to the next level!
Step 10: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost the top of each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. Feel free to get creative with your frosting technique—swirls or smooth finishes both work wonderfully, adding that irresistibly rich touch to your vibrant cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeks! You can mix the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For maximum deliciousness, frost the cookies just before serving. If desired, you can also prepare the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply frost the cookies and let them come to room temperature for that sweet, rich flavor reminiscent of a bakery delight!
Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful variations that will add personal flair to your cookie experience!
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Frosting Swap: Replace cream cheese frosting with chocolate ganache or a rich buttercream for a different flavor profile. Each option will elevate the cookie in its own unique way.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful version that’s just as chewy and delicious. Everyone deserves to enjoy these cookies, regardless of dietary needs!
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut into your frosting for a surprising twist that tantalizes the taste buds. A little hint of these flavors can take your cookies to new heights.
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Moisture Magic: Add a splash of buttermilk or yogurt to the cookie dough for extra moisture and a tender crumb. This small change yields a soft and delightful texture!
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Mix-In Variety: Toss in semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts for added richness and texture. The crunch from the nuts pairs beautifully with the soft cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
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Chocolate Lovers: Increase the cocoa powder slightly for a more chocolate-forward cookie or use dark cocoa powder for a deeper, richer flavor. It’s a perfect complement to that creamy frosting!
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Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, warm spice that complements the sweetness. It invokes a comforting vibe that feels just like a celebration!
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Mini Cookies: Portion the dough into smaller balls to create bite-sized cookies for an easy treat; perfect for gatherings or for those who want just a little taste without the guilt. They’re adorable and so fun to share!
No matter how you choose to customize, trust me—these variations will keep you craving more! For another indulgent treat, don’t forget to check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies for some classic comfort in every bite!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
• Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this ensures proper creaming with sugars for a lighter cookie.
• Mixing Technique: Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added; a gentle blend helps maintain that chewy texture in your cookies.
• Watch the Bake Time: Set a timer and check the cookies at the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking; they should be slightly underbaked in the center for optimal chewiness.
• Frosting Consistency: Adjust the powdered sugar in your cream cheese frosting to get your desired sweetness and texture; it should be fluffy but spreadable.
• Gluten-Free Option: For those needing a gluten-free option, make sure to use a suitable gluten-free flour blend when making your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different frostings or mix-ins, like nuts or flavored extracts, for a unique twist on your classic red velvet flavor!
What to Serve with Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
These deliciously vibrant cookies can be the star of any sweet gathering, perfectly complemented by delightful pairings that enhance their rich, creamy flavor.
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Cold Milk: A classic match for cookies; the coolness balances the richness of cream cheese frosting, making each bite extra satisfying.
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Coffee: The deep, nutty flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate notes of the cookies, creating a cozy afternoon treat to savor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a little on the side for a delightful contrast; the melting creaminess contrasts with the cookie’s chewy texture, making it a dessert dream.
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy berries add a refreshing, tart contrast to the sweet cookies, providing a burst of color and flavor to your dessert table. Enjoy them as a side or even on top of your cookies for a fruity twist!
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Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the richness of the cream cheese frosting, making for a bright and bubbly pairing—perfect for sunny days or summer gatherings.
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Chocolate Ganache: For an indulgent touch, drizzle over the cookie for a luxurious finish; the chocolate deepens the overall flavor, taking your dessert to the next level!
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, perfect for snacking anytime!
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature for a bit, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of butter to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsalted butter that’s been softened to room temperature. This ensures proper creaming with sugars, creating a light and fluffy cookie base. If you only have salted butter, just omit the additional salt in the recipe.
How long can I store leftover cookies?
Very! You can store the Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To keep them fresher longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just bring them to room temperature before enjoying for that perfect chewy texture.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Of course! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their gooey goodness!
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If you find your dough too dry, it might be due to measuring flour too densely. I recommend spooning the flour into the measuring cup without packing it down, or you can add a splash of milk or an extra egg yolk to help bind the ingredients together. Remember, dough should be pliable but not overly sticky.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the same amount. Be sure to choose a blend designed for baking, which usually includes xanthan gum, to maintain the right texture in your Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies.
Crumbl Copy Cat Red Velvet Cupcake Cookies You'll Crave Again
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined, then fold in the food coloring and vinegar.
- Drop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly underbaked.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- While cooling, beat together the cream cheese and butter for the frosting until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once cookies are completely cool, frost each with the cream cheese frosting.
