Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Introduction

Red Velvet Bear Cookies are an adorable twist on the classic red velvet cookie. Soft, chewy, and packed with the rich flavor of red velvet, these cookies are shaped like cute little bears, making them perfect for kids, holiday gatherings, or anyone who loves a fun and whimsical dessert.

I first made these for a family get-together, and they were a huge hit. The kids loved the playful bear shape, and the rich, velvety flavor was a big hit with everyone. The best part about these cookies is how easy they are to make, especially when you want something fun yet delicious. The hint of cream cheese frosting on top adds the perfect touch of sweetness, making each bite a little indulgent.

What’s great about these Red Velvet Bear Cookies is their versatility. You can serve them at parties, give them as gifts, or simply enjoy them as a fun treat at home. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to add a touch of whimsy to your dessert spread, these cookies are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Kids’ parties
• Holiday treats
• Gifting
• Red velvet enthusiasts
• Cookie lovers

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Here’s why Red Velvet Bear Cookies will become your go-to fun cookie recipe:

• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Adorable Design: Shaped like bears, these cookies are as fun to look at as they are to eat.
• Red Velvet Flavor: The subtle cocoa flavor and vibrant red color of red velvet make these cookies irresistible.
• Customizable Decorations: Decorate your bear cookies with cream cheese frosting, sprinkles, or even edible googly eyes for added personality.
• Great for All Ages: Both kids and adults will love these cute and tasty cookies.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Servings: 20-24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 140-150 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Red Velvet Bear Cookies:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for bear eyes and nose)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened, for optional frosting decoration)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)

Ingredient Highlights

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds the classic cocoa flavor to these red velvet cookies.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cookies soft and gives them a slight tang, characteristic of red velvet.
• Red Food Coloring: Provides the vibrant red hue that makes red velvet so visually appealing.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Used for creating the adorable bear faces.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: An optional but delightful way to decorate and enhance the cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Red Velvet Bear Cookies:

Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
4. Alternate Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).

Shape the Bear Cookies

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Bears: Roll small portions of dough into one larger ball (for the head) and two smaller balls (for the ears). Assemble on the prepared baking sheet to form a bear face. Repeat with remaining dough.
7. Add Features: Use mini chocolate chips to create the eyes and nose on each bear face. Press gently to ensure they stick.

Bake the Cookies

8. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until set but still soft in the center. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their chewy texture.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate (Optional)

10. Make Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
11. Add Decorative Touches: Use the frosting to add accents to the bear faces, such as a smile or outlined ears.

How to Serve Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Red Velvet Bear Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Holiday Platters: Include these cookies in a holiday cookie platter for a festive touch.
• Kids’ Lunchboxes: Pack them as a fun surprise in lunchboxes.
• Party Favors: Wrap them individually for party favors or gifts.
• Coffee or Milk Pairing: Serve them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful treat.
• Dessert Tables: Add them to a dessert table for a whimsical centerpiece.

Additional Tips for Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Here are some tips to ensure your Red Velvet Bear Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too sticky to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant red hue without altering the consistency of the dough.
• Press Chocolate Chips Firmly: Make sure the chocolate chips are pressed firmly into the dough so they don’t fall off after baking.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the dough can result in tougher cookies, so mix until just combined.

Recipe Variations for Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Red Velvet Bear Cookies:

1. White Chocolate Chips: Use white chocolate chips for the bear features.
2. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour to make gluten-free cookies.
3. Mini Bears: Create smaller bear cookies for bite-sized treats.
4. Sprinkle Bears: Add sprinkles to the dough or on top for a festive look.
5. Stuffed Cookies: Add a dollop of cream cheese or chocolate filling inside the cookies for a surprise center.
6. Holiday Bears: Use themed sprinkles or frosting colors for specific holidays (e.g., green frosting for Christmas).
7. Peanut Butter Accents: Use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips for a nutty twist.
8. Heart-Shaped Bears: Shape the dough into heart-shaped bears for Valentine’s Day.
9. Mint Chocolate Bears: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the dough for a minty flavor.
10. Coconut Bears: Roll the cookie dough in shredded coconut before baking for added texture.

Freezing and Storage for Red Velvet Bear Cookies

• Freezing Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough balls (assembled as bears) before baking. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Red Velvet Bear Cookies

Here are some tools that will make preparing Red Velvet Bear Cookies easier:

• Electric Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars smoothly.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures even-sized portions of dough for uniform cookies.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Wire Rack: Allows the cookies to cool evenly and maintain their texture.
• Food Coloring: Use a high-quality red gel food coloring for the best color results.

Frequently Asked Questions for Red Velvet Bear Cookies

1. Can I make these without food coloring?
   Yes, you can omit the food coloring, but the cookies will lose their signature red velvet appearance.
2. Can I use a store-bought red velvet cookie mix?
   Absolutely! A store-bought mix can save time and still yield delicious cookies.
3. Do I have to make the bear shapes?
   Not at all! You can simply make round cookies if you prefer a quicker option.
4. Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?
   Mini chocolate chips work best for the bear features, but regular ones can be used if needed.
5. How do I ensure the cookies stay soft?
   Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cookies. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Bear Cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With their soft, chewy texture and adorable bear design, they’re sure to bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re making them for kids, as holiday treats, or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who sees and tastes them!

This recipe is fun and easy to make, perfect for everything from casual baking sessions to holiday gatherings. These cookies add a whimsical touch to any dessert table and are sure to make everyone smile with their sweet, velvety flavor.

I’d love to see how your Red Velvet Bear Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!