Introduction to Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving something special to celebrate the season. Enter my Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies! These hauntingly beautiful treats are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delightful indulgence that will impress your loved ones. Soft, chewy dark cocoa cookies filled with a silky cream cheese center make for the perfect dessert. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is a quick solution that brings joy and warmth to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
These Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies are a dream come true for any home cook. They’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy days when you crave something sweet. The rich, dark cocoa flavor paired with the creamy filling creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, they look stunning on any dessert table, making them a showstopper for gatherings. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
Ingredients for Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps create a soft texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their chewy texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, giving the cookies structure and a lovely rise.
- Vanilla extract: A must-have for flavor; it brings warmth and depth to the cookies.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing the necessary structure.
- Dark cocoa powder: This is what gives the cookies their rich, dark color and deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-process is preferred for a smoother taste.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Black gel food coloring: Optional, but it intensifies the color, making your cookies even more striking.
- Black sanding sugar or nonpareils: For coating, these add a fun texture and sparkle to the cookies.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling! It provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the rich cookie.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling, making it smooth and delightful.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of hauntingly delicious cookies in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend until smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of your cookies, so make sure it’s well combined. Once mixed, scoop out teaspoon-sized portions and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Pop the tray in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes until the cream cheese balls are firm. This step is crucial; it keeps the filling from melting into the cookies while baking!
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients! Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. If you want that deep black color, add a few drops of black gel food coloring. Mix until a rich, dark dough forms. It should be soft and slightly sticky, just like a cozy blanket!
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Now comes the fun part! Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a frozen cream cheese ball in the center and carefully wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges. Make sure the filling is completely enclosed. Roll each cookie in black sanding sugar or nonpareils for that extra sparkle. This step not only adds texture but also makes your cookies look like little gems!
Step 4: Chill and Bake
Once your cookies are assembled, arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. They’ll look slightly puffed up and irresistible! Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure magic!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it should feel like a cozy hug!
- Freeze the cream cheese filling until firm; this prevents it from melting during baking.
- Don’t skip the chilling step before baking; it helps the cookies maintain their shape.
- Experiment with the amount of black food coloring for your desired darkness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl you have.
- Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer makes it easier, but a whisk works just fine.
- Parchment paper: Essential for lining your baking sheet; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
- Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet will do; just ensure it’s sturdy.
- Cookie scoop: This helps with portioning; a tablespoon works too!
Variations of Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for an extra chocolatey experience.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Twist: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the egg for a plant-based version.
- Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cocoa.
Serving Suggestions for Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
- Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- For a festive touch, arrange them on a spooky-themed platter.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent experience.
FAQs about Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies
As I’ve shared my love for these Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies, I often get questions from fellow bakers. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you on your baking journey!
Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This can save you time on baking day!
What can I substitute for dark cocoa powder?
If you don’t have dark cocoa powder, you can use regular unsweetened cocoa powder. Just keep in mind that the cookies will be lighter in color and flavor, but still delicious!
How should I store the Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for several days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them!
Can I use a different filling instead of cream cheese?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like peanut butter, Nutella, or even a fruit jam. Just make sure the filling is thick enough to hold its shape while baking.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for the edges to be set while the centers remain soft. They should look slightly puffed up. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out of the oven!
Final Thoughts
Making Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. The moment you pull these cookies from the oven, the rich aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of soft, chewy cookie and creamy filling, making them a true indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or savoring a quiet moment alone, these cookies bring a touch of magic to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking adventure begin!
Print
Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies: A Haunting Delight to Try!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10–12 large cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These hauntingly beautiful Black Velvet Stuffed Cookies are the ultimate Halloween indulgence — soft, chewy dark cocoa cookies filled with a silky cream cheese center.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (45 g) dark cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- Black gel food coloring (as needed for deep color)
- 3 tbsp black sanding sugar or nonpareils (for coating)
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, and mix well. Add flour, dark cocoa, baking soda, salt, and a few drops of black food coloring. Mix until a rich, dark dough forms.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten slightly. Place a frozen cream cheese ball in the center and wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges. Roll each cookie in black sanding sugar or black sprinkles for texture and sparkle.
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill for 15 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft. Cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese filling is frozen solid before wrapping with cookie dough.
- Adjust the amount of black food coloring to achieve the desired darkness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
