Red Velvet Cookie Bars are an irresistible treat that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the comforting texture of cookies. This easy and chewy dessert is perfect for parties and snacks, offering a vibrant red hue that brightens any occasion. The rich cocoa flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy finish, creating a delightful balance that kids and adults alike will love. Let’s dive into how to create these delicious bars that will surely impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookie Bars

These Red Velvet Cookie Bars are not just visually stunning; they are a culinary delight for several reasons. First, their chewy texture makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. Second, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients that you likely already have at home. Third, the bars are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in. Fourth, the vibrant color of these Red Velvet Dessert Bars ensures they stand out on any dessert table. Fifth, the addition of white chocolate chips adds delightful bursts of sweetness. Sixth, these bars can be customized with various toppings or variations, making them a versatile dessert option. Finally, they are vegetarian-friendly, aligning with many dietary preferences.

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Ingredients for Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Gather these items:

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2-3 tablespoons red gel food coloring
1/2 cup buttermilk or 1/2 cup milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 cup white chocolate chips or mini chips
Cream Cheese Swirl:
4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal of the bars.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: Whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
Step 5: Stir in the red food coloring until the batter reaches a vibrant red hue.
Step 6: Fold in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Make the cream cheese swirl: in a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 8: Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan, dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture across the batter, then spoon the remaining batter over the top.
Step 9: Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
Step 10: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 11: Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out. Slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Step 12: Serve and enjoy your Red Velvet Cookie Bars.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Keep these in mind:

Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve the desired color.
For a more intense flavor, consider adding extra cocoa powder.
For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.

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Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Bars

These Red Velvet Cookie Bars can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great choice for afternoon gatherings. For festive occasions, consider serving them on a decorative platter to highlight their vibrant color.

How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Cookie Bars

To store your Red Velvet Cookie Bars, simply place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. This is also a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cookie Bars

What is a Red Velvet Cookie Bar?

A Red Velvet Cookie Bar is a chewy dessert that combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the ease of cookie bars. They are typically made with cocoa powder, red food coloring, and often feature a cream cheese swirl for added flavor.

Can I make Red Velvet Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Red Velvet Cookie Bars ahead of time. Simply bake them and store them in an airtight container. They stay delicious for several days, making them perfect for planning ahead for parties or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Cookie Bars?

To avoid common mistakes when making Red Velvet Cookie Bars, ensure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can result in dense bars. Also, be careful with the baking time; check them a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.

Variations of Red Velvet Cookie Bars You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations: 1) Add nuts for a crunchy texture, 2) Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of these Red Velvet Cookie Bars, and 3) Experiment with different types of chips, like dark chocolate or caramel, for added flavor profiles.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies or Easy Cinnamon Rolls. If you’re interested in exploring more about baking techniques, visit The Joy of Vegetable Gardening.

Delicious Red Velvet Cookie Bars: 12 Irresistible Treats

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Irresistible Red Velvet Cookie Bars, an easy and chewy dessert perfect for parties and snacks.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2–3 tablespoons red gel food coloring
1/2 cup buttermilk or 1/2 cup milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 cup white chocolate chips or mini chips
Cream Cheese Swirl:
4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal of the bars.
In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
Stir in the red food coloring until the batter reaches a vibrant red hue.
Fold in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Make the cream cheese swirl by beating the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture across the batter, then spoon the remaining batter over the top.
Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out. Slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Serve and enjoy your Red Velvet Cookie Bars.