Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Soft and chewy cookie bars with a rich cocoa flavor and vibrant red color, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Substitute with unsweetened applesauce for lower fat option.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
For the Frosting
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative.
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Baking
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Frosting
- To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well-blended.
- Once the cookie bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Cut them into bars and serve.
Notes
For variations, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. These bars are best enjoyed fresh.