Oh those 2 sweet words that always command my complete attention:  Red Velvet.  Just in time for Valentines, today I’m packing that signature flavor in mouth-watering cookies loaded with chocolate chips.  As if that weren’t enough, let’s take them completely over-the-top by adding cream cheese frosting, and of course, sprinkles.

I know it’s Valentine’s Day, but you might find these hard to share!

Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons red food coloring
4 cups flour
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Frosting

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350.

Cream the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.  Beat in eggs and food coloring.

Sift together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.  Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture until completely combined.  Fold in chocolate chips.

Drop by rounded tablespoons onto greased baking sheet (or use parchment paper).

Bake about 10 minutes or until just lightly browned.  Do not over bake.

Cool completely and frost with cream cheese frosting.  Top with sprinkles.

For Cream Cheese Frosting:  Whip the butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.  Add the vanilla and stir in the powdered sugar.

Makes 4-5 dozen cookies depending on size.