Red Velvet Cookie Bars: 16 Irresistible Treats to Indulge

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Red Velvet Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of rich, velvety flavor and chewy texture, making them a delightful treat for all occasions. These bars incorporate the classic red velvet cake profile, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a smooth and tangy finish. Each bite is an indulgence, whether it’s for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookie Bars

These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are a favorite for many reasons. First, they combine the beloved flavors of red velvet cake and cookies, creating a unique dessert experience. The ease of baking them in a single pan makes preparation a breeze. Plus, they are customizable—add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist or nuts for a crunch. They are an excellent choice for parties and special occasions, especially on Valentine’s Day, when their vibrant color shines. These bars are also vegetarian-friendly, making them suitable for various diets. Finally, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet treat all week long.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Gather these items:

2 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons red food coloring
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups sifted powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until combined. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and creamy.
Step 4: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Evenly spread and press the dough into the prepared pan. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the edges begin to pull away from the pan.
Step 7: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until fluffy.
Step 9: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into 16 bars and serve.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend.

Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Bars

These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. Alternatively, pair them with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars. For parties, consider cutting them into smaller squares for easy serving.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Cookie Bars

To store your Red Velvet Cookie Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer them chilled, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm. These bars also make for a great meal prep dessert, ready whenever you need a sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cookie Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Red Velvet Cookie Bars?

The secret lies in not overmixing the dough and ensuring the bars cool completely before frosting. This keeps them soft and chewy, providing the perfect texture.

Can I make Red Velvet Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bars a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container once they are completely cooled and frost them on the day you plan to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Cookie Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and follow the baking time closely. This ensures the bars are not overbaked or underbaked, which affects texture.

Variations of Red Velvet Cookie Bars You Can Try

Feel free to experiment! You can add chocolate chips for a double treat, use nuts for added texture, or make them without eggs for an egg-free version. For a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles on top of the frosting, especially for Red Velvet Cookie Bars for Parties.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Apple Bundt Cake Recipe. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, you might also enjoy Irresistible Thick Chocolate Chip Cookies or Creamy Italian Meatball Soup. For a fun twist, try Ghostly Peanut Butter Balls.

For more information on the benefits of red velvet cake, you can visit Healthline.