Red Velvet Cookie Bars

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Every time I make these Red Velvet Cookie Bars, I’m reminded why this recipe is such a favorite in my kitchen. With their rich, vibrant red color and irresistible soft-baked texture, these bars feel festive and indulgent, yet they’re surprisingly easy to pull together. The cream cheese frosting? That’s the real showstopper. Thick, smooth, and just the right amount of tangy, it perfectly complements the deep cocoa flavor of the red velvet base.

I love making these bars for gatherings or when I want to impress without spending hours baking. They slice up neatly, travel well, and never fail to draw compliments. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic cake or just craving something decadent and chewy, these bars check all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Red Velvet Cookie Bars bring all the flavor of red velvet cake in a more casual, grab-and-go form. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with cocoa and vanilla notes. The smooth cream cheese frosting adds richness without being too heavy. And the red hue? It instantly makes any occasion feel a little more special.

What Kind of Food Coloring Should I Use?

For the signature deep red color, gel food coloring works best. It’s more concentrated than liquid food coloring, meaning you use less but get brighter, bolder results. If you only have liquid coloring on hand, just be mindful that you may need to use more, which can slightly affect your batter consistency.

Options for Substitutions

No buttermilk? Use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Don’t have gel food coloring? Beet powder or natural red food coloring can give a similar hue, though it may be slightly muted. You can also swap the frosting for a white chocolate drizzle if you’re not a fan of cream cheese, but trust me—the original is worth it.

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Ingredients for These Red Velvet Cookie Bars

All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bars and balances the moisture and fat.

Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds the classic hint of chocolate that defines red velvet.

Baking powder & salt – Help the bars rise slightly and enhance flavor.

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and ensures a soft, tender crumb.

Granulated sugar & brown sugar – A mix of both brings sweetness and a slight chew from the molasses in brown sugar.

Large eggs – Bind everything together and give structure.

Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor and enhances the cocoa.

Red gel food coloring – Gives the bars their vibrant red color.

Cream cheese – For the tangy, creamy frosting layer.

Powdered sugar – Used in the frosting for smoothness and sweetness.

Butter (again) – Mixed with cream cheese to make the frosting extra luscious.

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Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This helps build the soft texture in the bars.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated before moving on.

Step 5: Add Red Coloring

Add the red gel food coloring to the wet mixture. Start with a small amount and build until the color is rich and vibrant.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars cool, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add a splash of vanilla extract if desired.

Step 9: Frost the Bars

Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create swoops and texture.

Step 10: Add Sprinkles and Slice

Top with red or festive sprinkles if you like. Slice into even squares and serve!

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How Long to Prepare the Red Velvet Cookie Bars

Prep Time: These bars are incredibly quick to prep. You’ll need about 15 minutes to mix the dough and prepare the frosting. If your butter and cream cheese are already softened, it might take even less.

Bake and Cool Time: Baking takes about 20 minutes. Cooling is important before frosting, so plan for an additional 30–45 minutes to let the bars come to room temperature. Altogether, from start to frosted finish, you’re looking at just over an hour.

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Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cookie Bars

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and fluffier frosting.
• Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients—this keeps the bars tender.
• Use gel food coloring for a rich red without altering the texture.
• For ultra-smooth frosting, sift your powdered sugar before mixing.
• Chill the bars slightly before slicing for clean, even cuts.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: Red velvet bars can dry out quickly. Check at 18 minutes to avoid going too far.
• Too much food coloring: Adding too much can leave a bitter taste. Start with less and add as needed.
• Warm bars + frosting: Never frost before the bars are fully cool or the frosting will melt.
• Skipping parchment paper: Makes removal and slicing easier. Don’t skip it!
• Using low-fat cream cheese: It can make the frosting runny and less flavorful.

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What to Serve With Red Velvet Cookie Bars?

1. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The rich bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bars.

2. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop on the side turns a bar into a full dessert plate.

3. Fresh Berries

Adds a tart, juicy contrast and a splash of color to your dessert plate.

4. Sparkling Rosé or Dessert Wine

Great for a celebratory vibe and complements the cocoa notes.

5. Whipped Cream with a Hint of Cinnamon

A light topping alternative if you’re serving without frosting or alongside.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If unfrosted, the bars can sit covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerated: Once frosted, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for 4–5 days. Let them sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving so the frosting softens.

Freezing: You can freeze frosted or unfrosted bars. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

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Estimated Nutrition (per bar, assuming 16 servings)

• Calories: ~290 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 140mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 26g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have gel food coloring?

You can use liquid food coloring, but you may need more of it. Just keep an eye on the texture—it could thin the batter slightly.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! They’re actually better the next day. Make them a day in advance and refrigerate.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just use a larger sheet pan and keep an eye on baking time—it may need a few extra minutes.

Is it okay to skip the frosting?

You can, but the cream cheese frosting is a signature element. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar if you want something simpler.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer works great for both the batter and frosting.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Cookie Bars are the ultimate combination of style, simplicity, and flavor. They deliver the iconic taste of red velvet cake in an easy-to-serve bar format, complete with a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday, or just a cozy weekend treat, these bars never disappoint. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a regular request!

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