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Red Velvet Bear Cookies

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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 simply for anyone who loves a fun and whimsical dessert. These cookies are easy to make and feature the irresistible combination of red velvet and a hint of cream cheese frosting for decoration. Their charming design and delicious flavor make them a must-have for any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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.

Instructions

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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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)

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

Nutrition

Find it online: https://herbites.com/red-velvet-bear-cookies/