Description

These Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cookie Bars are a delightful treat, featuring a rich flavor, simple preparation, and a stunning appearance that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, light or dark
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk, in addition to the full egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring, liquid or gel, feel free to use less
1/2 teaspoon vinegar, distilled or white vinegar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened but not starting to melt
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, be sure to use brick style
2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sift if lumpy
1/4 teaspoon salt
1–2 tablespoons cream , whipping cream or table cream, if needed

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350F (180C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Incorporate the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar into the butter mixture until well blended.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined, avoiding lumps.
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly, using wax paper if necessary to press it down.
Bake in the middle of the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is set and the edges start to pull away from the pan.
Allow the bars to cool completely before applying the frosting.

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to mix.
If the dough is too sticky to spread, try chilling it for a short time before placing it in the pan.
Feel free to adjust the amount of red food coloring for your desired color intensity.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg