It isn’t the holidays unless I’m baking. Do you agree? I’ve always loved it but when I had my own daughter it immediately became one of my favorite things to do with her. She’s actually quite talented in the kitchen for a three year old. I’ve also unintentionally become known for my cookies. I feel like an imposter, they are incredibly easy and start with a huge cheat. I used to feel guilty about that when people raved about any cookie I brought to a gathering, like I couldn’t be complimented because it was too simple to make, but I own it now. I have several versions of this recipe I make but I am going to share a festive version with you, Red velvet Christmas cookies with cream cheese frosting. 

Here is where I admit to the cheat, the start of this recipe is…

• a box of red velvet cake mix
• add in 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• two eggs

Mix your ingredients in a mixing bowl or in a mixer with dough attachment until everything is combined. Your dough should be soft, but thicker than cake batter. Freeze your dough until it firms to a consistency that is easier to roll into a ball. 

Once your dough is fairly firm:

• roll in to 1-2 inch balls and set on a parchment lined or greased baking sheet.
• Bake at 350 for 10 minutes.
• When I remove my cookies from the oven, I let them sit on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes on top of the oven before removing to a cooling area. 

These cookies come out incredibly soft and delicious! It really is as easy as it sounds. The next step is frosting the cookies and this can be done three ways. In a time crunch or when you just aren’t in the mood for another few steps, pre made cream cheese frosting is a great option to top the cookies with. Your next option is still pre made cream cheese frosting, you just add in a few simple things to amp it up. I usually add in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, both cut the intense sugar taste from premade frosting.

Your last option is homemade cream cheese frosting which without a doubt is worth it but time, kids, husbands… those things can leave you needing to get something done with the least amount of effort. When you have time for effort though, this homemade frosting recipe it fairly simple. 

For homemade cream cheese frosting, you will need:

• a 6oz block of cream cheese
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter
• 1 package of powdered sugar
• a splash of vanilla extract.

Your cream cheese and butter need to be at room temperature. Add both to a mixer and cream until whipped and combined. Then add in a splash of vanilla. When it comes time to add the powdered sugar you will add in a cup at a time until you get your desired consistency. If you add too much and feel it got thicker than you prefer, splash in a little milk to thin it back out. 

Once the cookies are completely cooled, add the frosting and decorate with festive sprinkles and you have a gorgeous, delicious and embarrassingly simple cookie. 

I hope you enjoy making these as much as my daughter and I do! No matter who you bake with or for, just remember the most important ingredient is your love and joy making them.

Check out our holiday guides for where to see Santa, lights and more!