Two of your favorite dessert worlds collide in the most irresistible way with these Red Velvet Cookie Bars. Fudgy like brownies, rich in cocoa, and topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting, they offer everything you love about red velvet cake, reimagined into chewy, hand-held squares. These bars are dressed to impress with their vibrant crimson hue and a flutter of festive sprinkles, perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just a cozy night in.

Not only are they striking to look at, but they’re also wonderfully easy to make. No need to chill the dough or fuss with rolling. Just mix, press, bake, frost, and slice. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or sneaking a treat for yourself, these cookie bars check every box of ease, beauty, and deliciousness.

One bowl, no mixer needed
Thick and chewy with a brownie-like bite
Vibrant color and soft texture make them party-perfect
Cream cheese frosting makes them absolutely decadent
Great for make-ahead and easy to transport

What Kind of Cocoa Powder Should I Use?

For the best depth of flavor, opt for unsweetened natural cocoa powder. Dutch-processed works too but will give you a slightly different flavor and a darker red shade. Since red velvet is all about balance—cocoa, tang, and vanilla—go for a brand with rich but not bitter cocoa notes.

Every ingredient in these bars brings its own magic. Let’s break down why they matter.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that keeps the bars dense and chewy without being cakey.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Just enough to give a subtle chocolate edge without overwhelming the red velvet vibe.
Butter: Melted for convenience, and it adds rich flavor and chewy texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie base and contributes to the soft texture.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Egg: Binds everything together and helps with the chew.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the chocolate and cream cheese flavors.
White vinegar: A key player in authentic red velvet for tang and to react with baking soda.
Red food coloring: Essential for that iconic look.
Baking soda: Gives a slight lift while keeping the bars dense.
Salt: Brings all the flavors into focus.
Cream cheese: The heart of the frosting—rich, tangy, and luscious.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting.
Butter (again): Helps whip the frosting into creamy bliss.

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This helps lift the bars out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring. Stir until smooth. Fold in the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.

Step 3: Press and Bake

Spread the thick dough evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 18-22 minutes, or until the edges look set and the center is slightly soft.

Step 4: Cool and Frost

Let the bars cool completely. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Spread generously over the cooled bars.

Step 5: Slice and Sprinkle

Cut into squares and top with sprinkles of your choice. Store any extras in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh.

This recipe makes about 16 rich, satisfying bars, though you could stretch it to 20 if you’re feeding a crowd. Serve them chilled for a firmer bite or at room temp for soft, creamy frosting.

To store, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—just wrap individually and thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.