Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, offering a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of cocoa and a lovely crimson hue. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a bake sale, a birthday party, or just a sweet snack at home, these bars bring a burst of color and happiness to the table!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ¾ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese frosting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to help with easy removal and cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring. Mix until everything is beautifully combined, creating that signature red hue.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies chewy!
- Gently fold in the white chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread the cookie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- While the cookie bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, creating a luscious layer.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delight on everyone’s faces as they take their first bite!
Notes or Tips
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week – if they last that long!
- Feel free to adjust the amount of food coloring to your liking; a little goes a long way in achieving that vibrant red!
Cooking Techniques
When making these cookie bars, the creaming method is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture. It’s important to allow the butter to soften at room temperature before mixing; this allows for maximum air incorporation, leading to a tender bite. Additionally, folding in the chocolate chips gently ensures they are evenly distributed without deflating the batter, which is key for the perfect bake!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips or even milk chocolate chips would make a delightful change. - Can I freeze the cookie bars?
Yes! Once the bars are completely cooled and frosted, they can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving. - What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can omit it, but you’ll miss out on that iconic red color. You might try using beet juice for a natural alternative.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a festive treat that adds a pop of color and flavor to any occasion! With their rich taste and creamy frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy the scrumptious journey of creating these delightful bars. Happy baking!