There's something magical about biting into a soft, sweet pink velvet cookie. These cookies are not only gorgeous with their vibrant pink hue but also melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a subtle hint of vanilla and a touch of cocoa. They're perfect for Valentine's Day, birthdays, or just when you're in the mood for something a little special.

I first made these cookies for a friend's bridal shower, and they quickly became the star of the dessert table. Since then, they've been my go-to treat for any occasion that calls for a pop of color and sweetness. Ready to bring a little extra joy to your cookie jar? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Pink Velvet Cookie Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these delightful cookies. They're as delicious as they are beautiful and will surely become a favorite in your home.

First off, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques – just a few simple ingredients and a little mixing.

The texture is to die for. With a soft, velvety crumb and slightly chewy edges, these cookies strike the perfect balance between tenderness and structure.

They’re versatile and perfect for any celebration. Add sprinkles for a festive touch, or drizzle with white chocolate for extra decadence.

Finally, who doesn’t love a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Mixing that bright pink dough is a guaranteed mood booster.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect cookie. Let’s break it down.

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the dough and gives the cookies their structure. Be sure to measure carefully for the best results.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Just a touch adds depth to the flavor without overwhelming the vanilla. Use a high-quality cocoa for the best taste.

Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise and give them their soft, tender texture.

Butter: Room-temperature butter is key for a smooth and creamy dough. It also adds richness to the cookies.

Granulated sugar and brown sugar: This combination gives the cookies the perfect balance of sweetness and a slight chewiness from the molasses in the brown sugar.

Egg: Acts as a binder, giving the cookies their structure and softness.

Vanilla and almond extracts: The vanilla adds warmth, while the almond extract gives a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cocoa.

Pink food coloring: A gel-based food coloring works best for achieving a vibrant pink without altering the texture of the dough.

If you have a stand mixer, it’s great for creaming the butter and sugar, but a hand mixer or even a wooden spoon will work just fine.

How To Make This Pink Velvet Cookie Recipe

Making these cookies is a breeze, and the process is as fun as the result. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and makes cleanup a snap.

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.

In a larger bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that soft, tender texture.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Once combined, mix in the pink food coloring until the dough reaches your desired shade.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down on each ball to flatten slightly.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft, velvety texture. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage Options

These cookies are as easy to store as they are to make, so you can enjoy them whenever a craving strikes.

At room temperature, store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to keep them soft.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

To reheat, thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or pop them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-from-the-oven texture.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can easily make it your own.

For a chocolatey twist, add white chocolate chips or milk chocolate chunks to the dough before baking.

Want a citrusy note? Replace the almond extract with lemon or orange extract and add a teaspoon of zest.

Make them extra festive by rolling the dough balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.

If you're avoiding food coloring, skip the pink and make classic cocoa-vanilla velvet cookies instead.

For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).

Don’t be afraid to experiment! These cookies are as adaptable as they are delicious.

With their vibrant color, tender texture, and irresistible flavor, pink velvet cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies never disappoint. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create something truly special!