There’s something delightfully unexpected about baking cookies with sourdough starter. When I first ventured into the world of sourdough, my intention was to perfect the art of bread. Little did I know that it would lead me to this scrumptious creation: Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies. The vibrant crimson hue and rich chocolatey flavor collide to create a treat that not only looks fantastic but also sparks joy with every bite.
After a long week, I found myself craving something sweet yet different, and these cookies fit the bill perfectly. They capture the essence of a classic red velvet cake but with a modern twist that makes them oh-so-unique. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for anyone—whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out.
These beauties are sure to impress at any gathering, tempting even the most dedicated chocolate lovers. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and turn an ordinary day into a delicious occasion!
Why You'll Love This Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies
- These Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies are a breeze to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- The unique combination of sourdough and cocoa creates a flavor profile that is both rich and delightful, sure to win over anyone’s taste buds.
- They’re incredibly versatile too, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a lively gathering.
- The stunning red hue makes them visually striking, adding a pop of color to your dessert table that will leave your guests in awe.
Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Sourdough starter – 1 cup adds a delightful tanginess, enhancing the flavor profile of these cookies.
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup provides structure, ensuring the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 1/2 cup brings rich chocolatey goodness to the mix.
- Baking soda – 1 tsp helps the cookies rise, creating a light and tender texture.
- Granulated sugar – 3/4 cup balances the flavors, making these cookies perfectly sweet.
- Large egg – 1 egg acts as a binder, contributing to a moist and chewy texture.
- Vegetable oil – 1/3 cup keeps the cookies soft and adds richness.
- Red food coloring – 2 tbsp creates that iconic vibrant hue, making these Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies visually stunning.
How to Make Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!
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Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda in a bowl; set aside. This dry mix will give your cookies structure and a rich chocolate flavor.
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Combine the sourdough starter, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and red food coloring in another bowl until smooth. This creamy mixture is where the magic begins, bringing all those delicious flavors together!
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Mix in the dry ingredients gradually, until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your cookies light and tender. You want them to be perfectly blended without losing that lovely texture.
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Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie. This prevents them from merging into one big cookie while baking!
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool. Place them on wire racks to cool completely and unlock their gorgeous flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with a light cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies Variations
Feel the freedom to personalize these cookies and make them reflect your unique taste with a touch of creativity!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture without any dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious and inclusive option that everyone can enjoy.
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Cocoa Twist: Swap half the cocoa powder for dark chocolate or espresso powder for a richer flavor burst that will awaken your senses!
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Nutty Crumble: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor in every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper for a surprising warmth that dances on your palate alongside the sweetness—a playful twist!
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Oatmeal Boost: Incorporate 1/2 cup of rolled oats for added texture and heartiness; these cookies will pack a satisfying chew.
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Cream Cheese Center: Create a delectable surprise by placing a small dollop of cream cheese frosting in the center before baking—transformation complete!
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Choco-Chip Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness that melts beautifully in every cookie.
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies are a fantastic choice for make-ahead baking! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain that fresh-baked quality, be sure to scoop the cookie dough onto the baking sheets before refrigerating, as this prevents it from hardening too much. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake them directly from the fridge for about 1-2 extra minutes. Enjoy the vibrant flavor and soft texture of these cookies that feel just as delightful as when they were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
What to Serve with Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies?
Indulging in these vibrant cookies opens the door to pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smoothness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chocolatey cookie, providing a perfect balance of textures. A scoop on the side adds a delightful chill to every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing pop that cuts through the sweetness. Their juicy burst will elevate your cookie experience, making each bite more enticing.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache deepens the flavor while adding a glossy finish. This luxurious touch turns simple cookies into an extravagant dessert delight.
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Nutty Walnut Crumble: Adding a sprinkle of crushed walnuts brings a satisfying crunch. Their earthy flavor complements the cocoa, creating a more complex taste profile that’s simply irresistible.
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Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread or drizzle this tangy frosting on top for a sweet, creamy finish. The maple adds warmth, harmonizing perfectly with the cookies’ rich cocoa notes.
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Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant tea’s floral hints make it an elegant beverage pairing, contrasting the cookies’ sweetness. The soothing warmth of a cup could make this a cozy afternoon treat.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty fizz of sparkling lemonade lightens the palate between bites, providing a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ rich flavors. It’s a delightful way to enhance your sweet experience.
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Dark Chocolate Coffee: Serving these cookies with a cup of bold dark chocolate coffee enhances the cocoa richness while offering deep, invigorating flavors. It’s the perfect pairing for your afternoon cookie break!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies, remember to use an active and bubbly sourdough starter for the best flavor and texture.
- To prevent dense cookies, avoid overmixing the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Ensure your baking sheets are properly lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
- Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies while baking; it’s better to take them out when they look slightly underbaked, as they will continue to set up on the cooling racks.
Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies, use an active and bubbly sourdough starter. This ensures that your cookies rise well and have a delightful tangy flavor. If your starter is inactive or too old, the cookies may turn out dense.
How should I store the cookies?
Keep your Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to store them longer, placing them in the fridge can extend their life to about a week. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Of course! To freeze your Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the oven.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you notice your cookies spreading too much, it’s usually because of melted butter or not enough flour. To fix this next time, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, as it helps to firm up the dough and prevent excessive spreading.
Can I use gluten-free all-purpose flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum. This keeps the texture light and chewy. Just be sure to follow the package instructions as some blends work better in baking than others.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Certainly! If you’re serving these cookies to anyone with allergies, be mindful that they contain egg and may not be suitable for vegans or those allergic to eggs. The red food coloring is generally safe for most, but you may want to check for potential allergens if someone has sensitivities. Always keep these cookies away from pets, especially dogs, as chocolate can be harmful to them.
Sourdough Red Velvet Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda in a bowl; set aside.
- Combine the sourdough starter, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and red food coloring in another bowl until smooth.
- Mix in the dry ingredients gradually, until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked.
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