Introduction to Red Velvet Cookie Bars
Red velvet cookie bars are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake, combining the rich, velvety flavor in a chewy, cookie bar form. These bars are visually stunning with their vibrant red hue, often enhanced by white chocolate chips that add a creamy contrast. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or even just a sweet treat for yourself, red velvet cookie bars have gained immense popularity due to their unique flavor profile and ease of preparation. Unlike traditional red velvet cake, which can be layered and frosted, cookie bars are simpler to make and serve, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
To make your own delicious red velvet cookie bars, you will need the following ingredients:
Wet Ingredients
- 125 g unsalted butter
- 100 g light brown soft sugar
- 75 g white granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp red food colouring
Dry Ingredients
- 265 g plain flour
- 15 g cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 300 g white chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. For instance, the combination of light brown sugar and granulated sugar adds depth to the sweetness, while the cocoa powder enhances the chocolate undertone that red velvet is known for. The white chocolate chips provide a creamy texture that complements the cookie bars beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your red velvet cookie bars:
- Preheat the oven to 180ºC/160ºC fan, and line a 9×9″ square tin with parchment paper.
- Add the butter, light brown sugar, and white granulated sugar to a bowl and beat together until creamy. A stand mixer with the beater attachment works best for this task!
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring into the mixture, and beat again until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add in the plain flour, cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda, and sea salt. Continue to beat until a smooth cookie dough forms.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press the cookie dough into the lined tin, ensuring it’s spread evenly.
- Bake the cookie bars in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the top looks dry and set.
- Once baked, allow them to cool in the tray before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious red velvet cookie bars!
If you’re a visual learner, consider checking out a video tutorial for a step-by-step guide to making these delicious treats!
Tips for Perfect Cookie Bars
To ensure your red velvet cookie bars turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
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- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookie bars.
- For optimal freshness, store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them but allow them to reach room temperature before serving.
- To achieve the ideal texture, pay close attention to the baking time. Underbaking slightly will give you a chewier texture, while overbaking can result in dry cookie bars.
- Experiment with mix-ins! You can add nuts or different types of chocolate for a unique twist.
For more inspiration on cookie-making, check out our delightful raspberry swirl cookies that offer great tips on achieving the perfect texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving of red velvet cookie bars:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
For a healthy dessert alternative, consider our healthy blueberry oat bars that provide a nutritious twist on sweet treats.
Gluten-Free Variations
If you’re looking to make these cookie bars gluten-free, you can easily substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Here are a few tips:
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
- Be mindful of the moisture content; you may need to adjust the amount of liquid ingredients slightly.
- Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer excellent gluten-free options that work well in cookie recipes.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To elevate your red velvet cookie bars, consider serving them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- A drizzle of cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent touch.
- Fresh berries or whipped cream for a light and refreshing contrast.
If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert option, try our easy lemon raspberry cookies that pair beautifully with the rich flavors of red velvet cookie bars.
User Reviews and Community Feedback
Many readers have tried this red velvet cookie bar recipe and shared their wonderful experiences. Here are a few highlights:
- “These bars were a hit at my family gathering! Everyone loved the rich flavor.”
- “I added chopped pecans, and it took the texture to the next level!”
- “So easy to make, and the instructions were clear and helpful!”
Don’t forget to share your own experiences and modifications! Use hashtags like #RedVelvetCookieBars on social media to join the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes red velvet cookie bars different from traditional red velvet cake?
Red velvet cookie bars combine the rich, unique flavor of red velvet cake with the chewy, satisfying texture of cookie bars. They are denser and easier to serve than cake, making them a perfect treat for gatherings.
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips in the recipe?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate, or even chopped nuts for a different flavor profile. Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins!
How should I store leftover cookie bars?
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the specific instructions on the flour package for any adjustments in the baking process.
What is the best way to serve red velvet cookie bars?
These cookie bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of cream cheese frosting, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Cookie Bars
Red velvet cookie bars are not just a treat; they are an experience! With their rich flavors, chewy texture, and beautiful presentation, they are bound to impress anyone who tries them. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these cookie bars are the perfect dessert to share with friends and family. Try making them today and see for yourself why they are becoming a favorite in many households. If you love dessert bars, you might also enjoy our carrot cake truffles, which offer a unique flavor experience.
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Irresistible Red Velvet Cookie Bars: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Try these easy red velvet cookie bars with cream cheese frosting. A quick, decadent treat perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 125 g unsalted butter
- 100 g light brown soft sugar
- 75 g white granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp red food colouring
Dry Ingredients
- 265 g plain flour
- 15 g cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 300 g white chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180ºC/160ºC fan, and line a 9×9″ square tin with parchment paper.
- Add the butter, light brown sugar, and white granulated sugar to a bowl and beat together until creamy. A stand mixer with the beater attachment works best for this task!
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring into the mixture, and beat again until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add in the plain flour, cocoa powder, bicarbonate of soda, and sea salt. Continue to beat until a smooth cookie dough forms.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press the cookie dough into the lined tin, ensuring it’s spread evenly.
- Bake the cookie bars in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the top looks dry and set.
- Once baked, allow them to cool in the tray before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious red velvet cookie bars!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 200
Keywords: Red Velvet, Cookie Bars, Baking, Sweet Treats, Comfort Food