These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are soft, sweet, and oh-so-fun! With a lovely red color and a tasty cream cheese topping, they are perfect for any occasion.
Honestly, who can resist that vibrant color and creamy layer? I usually serve them at parties, and they go fast! Just remember to save a piece for yourself! 😋
out clean. Let the bars cool in the pan for a bit, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and fluffy.
10. Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with crushed red velvet cake crumbs or red sprinkles.
11. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: I always recommend unsalted butter to control the salt content. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Red Food Coloring: The classic ingredient for that vibrant color! If you prefer natural options, beet juice or powder can work well, though the shade may vary.
Buttermilk: It adds moisture and tang to the bars. If you don’t have any, just mix one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with enough milk to make ½ cup. Let it sit for a few minutes to sour.
Cream Cheese: For the frosting, low-fat cream cheese is okay, but full-fat gives a richer flavor. If you need a vegan alternative, look for vegan cream cheese substitutes.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Perfectly Soft Cookie Bars?
To get those soft, chewy cookie bars, it’s essential to avoid overmixing the batter. Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:
- Mix the butter and sugar until fluffy, but don’t overdo it; the texture matters.
- When adding in the dry ingredients and wet mixture, stir gently until just combined. This will keep your bars tender.
- Watch your baking time closely; underbaking slightly will result in a soft texture that firms as they cool.
Enjoy baking these delightful treats! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family. If there are leftovers (which is rare), you can store them in the fridge for a few days.
out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. While the cookie bars are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated. Then, add the vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined.
11. Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
12. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the crushed red velvet cake crumbs or red sprinkles over the frosted cookie bars.
13. Slice into squares and serve! Enjoy the delicious flavors of these Red Velvet Cookie Bars—perfect for celebrations or just a sweet treat at home!
Time Estimate
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes of baking time, plus cooling time. You should plan for about an hour total before serving, as the bars need to cool completely to hold their shape and allow for frosting.
Storage Tips
These Red Velvet Cookie Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are wonderful on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. You can even garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color! Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Cookie Bars!
Can I Use a Different Type of Food Coloring?
Absolutely! While red food coloring gives the classic look, you can use gel food coloring for more vibrant color without altering the texture. Just use the same amount or a bit less, as gel coloring tends to be more concentrated.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, a quick substitute is to mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 1/2 cup. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken and curdle slightly before using.
How Should I Store Any Leftover Cookie Bars?
Store leftover cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen by wrapping each bar in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the cookie bars and frosting a day in advance. Just store the unfrosted bars in an airtight container. Frost them the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and texture!
