If you’ve never tasted red velvet cake Oreo cookies, you’re missing out on the chewiest, most chocolatey bite of bliss. These soft, vibrant red cookies are packed with crushed Oreo pieces and cake mix magic—and they’re taking the internet by storm. Whether you’re a fan of festive cookie recipes or just craving something decadent and easy, this treat delivers. I’ve baked my way through countless cookies, from these simple carrot cake cookies to my go-to red velvet cookies from box cake mix, and let me tell you—this one’s a keeper.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Red Velvet Cake Oreo Cookies
What Are Red Velvet Cake Oreo Cookies?
Red velvet cake Oreo cookies are a dreamy fusion of two classics—moist red velvet cake and crunchy, chocolatey Oreos. Instead of layering cake and frosting, this recipe folds chunks of Oreo cookies right into soft red velvet cookie dough, often made using boxed cake mix. The result? A chewy, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with hidden Oreo crunch in every bite. Think of them as a shortcut to flavor-loaded treats that taste like they came from a fancy bakery but require minimal effort. They’re especially popular during the holidays, but honestly, they’re perfect any time your sweet tooth strikes.
These cookies also ride the wave of hybrid desserts like chocolate chip cookie cakes and stuffed cookie bars. With their deep red hue, tender crumb, and pockets of Oreo goodness, they feel festive without requiring piping bags or pastry skills. If you’ve ever made a batch of pineapple sugar cookies and wanted something with a little more wow, this recipe might just be your new favorite.
Why This Recipe is Trending
There’s something irresistible about taking a nostalgic treat—like red velvet cake—and remixing it into something new. That’s part of why red velvet cake Oreo cookies have been trending across baking blogs, TikTok, and Pinterest boards alike. They deliver everything dessert lovers want: color, contrast, and flavor. Plus, they’re made with boxed cake mix, a major bonus for beginner bakers or busy parents.
Another reason for their popularity? These cookies are incredibly easy to customize. Whether you’re using classic Oreos, Golden Oreos, or flavored versions, the red velvet base holds up beautifully. And just like those viral almond croissant cookie bars, they bring bakery-level indulgence to your home kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Red Velvet Oreo Cookies
Key Ingredients Breakdown
This red velvet cake Oreo cookie recipe keeps things wonderfully simple. Here’s exactly what you need:
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz) – the shortcut base that brings color and flavor
- 2 large eggs – bind the dough and create a soft, chewy texture
- ½ cup vegetable oil – keeps the cookies moist (you can sub melted butter if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – optional, but adds warmth and balance
- 10–12 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped – mix of chunks and crumbles adds both flavor and crunch
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional) – perfect if you want a red velvet cheesecake-style twist
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
One reason people love this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some smart swaps:
- Cake Mix: Don’t have red velvet? Use chocolate or vanilla cake mix and add red gel food coloring to mimic the color. For a richer flavor, toss in a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
- Oils: Melted coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce (for a lower-fat version) can replace vegetable oil.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the chocolate chips or choose a dairy-free brand. Use oil instead of butter.
- Oreos: Switch to Golden Oreos, mint Oreos, or birthday cake flavors—each adds a twist without changing the baking method.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Red Velvet Cake Oreo Cookies
Preparing the Dough
This dough comes together in one bowl—no mixer needed. Just follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Combine the base: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 box (15.25 oz) of red velvet cake mix, 2 large eggs, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until a thick, uniform dough forms.
- Crush and fold: Roughly chop 10–12 Oreo cookies—some chunks, some crumbs. Gently fold them into the dough with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Optional boost: If you love contrast, add ½ cup of white chocolate chips to echo that red velvet cheesecake vibe.
Tip: The dough will be sticky. You can chill it for 15–20 minutes to make scooping easier—especially helpful on warmer days.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Cookie Texture
Getting that bakery-style chewy center is all about the bake. Here’s how to nail it:
- Scoop evenly: Use a medium cookie scoop (1.5 tablespoons) to form even-sized dough balls. Space them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake time: 9–11 minutes is perfect. Cookies should look puffed and slightly underbaked in the center—they’ll finish setting on the pan.
- Let them rest: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps maintain their soft centers.
Red Velvet Cake Oreo Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These red velvet cake Oreo cookies combine boxed cake mix with crushed Oreos and optional white chocolate chips to create a soft, chewy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 10–12 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix red velvet cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped Oreos and white chocolate chips.
4. Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto prepared baking sheets.
5. Bake for 9–11 minutes until cookies are set but soft in the center.
6. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Chill dough for 15–30 minutes for thicker cookies.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies or dough for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Why Use Cake Mix for Red Velvet Cookies?
Benefits of Using Boxed Cake Mix
Red velvet cake Oreo cookies owe much of their irresistible texture and rich flavor to one convenient ingredient: boxed cake mix. Using cake mix does more than just save time—it creates a soft, chewy cookie with that signature cake-like tenderness. The mix is already balanced for sweetness, fat, and leavening, so you can skip measuring out flour, sugar, and baking powder.
Cake mix also helps deliver consistent results, making it perfect for beginner bakers. Whether you’re prepping for a party or tossing together a last-minute treat, these cookies will come out soft and chewy every time—just like how bakery cookies look and taste.
How to Make Cake Mix Cookies Taste Homemade
While cake mix brings convenience, a few easy tricks can elevate your cookies beyond the box:
- Add vanilla extract: Just one teaspoon makes the flavor deeper and more homemade.
- Use melted butter instead of oil: It brings richness and a slight crispness to the edges.
- Fold in extra textures: Oreos, chocolate chips, or even nuts add crunch and interest.
- Chill the dough: It helps concentrate flavor and prevents excessive spreading in the oven.
This approach is similar to what works well in cookies that blur the lines between cake and bar for bakery-level results.
Oreo Variations That Work in This Recipe
Classic Oreos vs. Golden Oreos vs. Flavored
One of the best things about red velvet cake Oreo cookies is how versatile they are—especially when it comes to your choice of Oreos. While the classic chocolate Oreo brings deep cocoa flavor and contrast to the red velvet base, other variations offer equally exciting results:
- Classic Oreos: These give you the iconic cookies-within-cookies experience—rich, chocolatey, and perfectly nostalgic.
- Golden Oreos: Add a buttery, vanilla-like crunch that’s softer in contrast and pairs nicely with red velvet’s cocoa notes.
- Flavored Oreos: Think peppermint for the holidays, birthday cake for parties, or even toffee crunch for a twist. These versions create a playful variation of this easy holiday cookie recipe.
Each Oreo variety brings a different personality to the cookie. You can even split the batch and try two flavors to see which your crowd prefers.
How to Mix-In Crushed or Whole Oreos
The texture of these cookies depends a lot on how you incorporate the Oreos. Here’s what to consider:
- Crushed finely: Gives a uniform Oreo flavor throughout the dough. Great if you want more chew and less crunch.
- Roughly chopped: Creates pockets of crunch and cream in every bite. Visually appealing and more layered in texture.
- Whole mini Oreos: Want that “surprise inside” moment? Press a mini Oreo into the center of each dough ball before baking for a fun twist on red velvet cookie ideas.
Try mixing both textures for the best of both worlds—a technique that also works wonders in layered desserts like red velvet Oreo dirt cakes or layered trifles.
Oreo Variations That Work in This Recipe
Classic Oreos vs. Golden Oreos vs. Flavored
One of the best things about red velvet cake Oreo cookies is how fun and versatile they are—especially when it comes to your choice of Oreos:
- Classic Oreos give you that rich, chocolatey crunch fused with red velvet’s subtle cocoa flavor—perfectly nostalgic.
- Golden Oreos add a buttery, vanilla-like contrast that flexes well against red velvet’s packed color.
- Flavored Oreos like birthday cake, peppermint, or toffee crunch bring a lively twist—ideal for parties or festive cookie recipes.
Each type brings its own vibe, so feel free to get creative—or split your batch to compare side by side.
How to Mix-In Crushed or Whole Oreos
How you fold in your Oreos shifts your cookie’s texture from delightfully chewy to layer-rich:
- Finely crushed Oreos disperse evenly for gentle flavor throughout—chewy with a mild crunch.
- Roughly chopped chunks give pockets of creamy crunch—visually rewarding and flavor-packed.
- Mini or whole Oreos tucked inside offer a surprise hidden inside every cookie, perfect as a fun walk-off reveal.
Mix both textures for a multi-layered treat that plays with every bite, a popular twist in red velvet cookie ideas.
Storing & Freezing Your Red Velvet Oreo Cookies
How Long Do They Last?
Red velvet cake Oreo cookies keep their chewy texture and bold flavor for several days—if they last that long. Here’s how to store them properly:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight.
- Layer with Parchment: If stacking cookies, add parchment between layers to prevent sticking and preserve the crushed Oreo coating.
- Avoid the Fridge: Refrigeration tends to dry out cookies. Only refrigerate if they contain cream cheese filling, and even then, seal tightly to prevent moisture loss.
These storage methods work just like they do for soft cookie bars or drop cookies, ensuring your batch stays bakery-fresh.
Freezer Storage Tips for Long-Term Freshness
Want to make a batch ahead of time? These cookies freeze beautifully:
- To freeze baked cookies: Let them cool completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
- To freeze cookie dough: Scoop dough into balls, place on a tray, and freeze. Once solid, store in freezer-safe containers. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
This makes red velvet Oreo cookies a perfect make-ahead holiday or party treat—just like any easy holiday cookie recipe you want to have on standby.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Holiday, Party, and Gifting Ideas
Red velvet cake Oreo cookies aren’t just tasty—they’re visually striking and party-ready. Their rich red color and crinkled tops make them perfect for:
- Holiday Cookie Trays: Stack them with sugar cookies, peppermint bark, or festive brownies for an eye-catching spread.
- Valentine’s Day Treat Bags: Their red hue and Oreo-studded look scream “love at first bite.”
- Bake Sales and School Events: Package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Add a little tag noting they’re made from a crowd-favorite cake mix cookie hack if you’re including these in a themed dessert box.
They also hold up well at room temperature, so they’re great for mailing in care packages or holiday tins.
Drinks That Pair Well with Red Velvet Oreo Cookies
Balance the cookie’s rich, chewy bite with drinks that complement or contrast:
- Milk (of course): Classic, cold milk enhances the cookie’s cocoa notes and cools down that chewy center.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the cookie’s sweetness and adds sophistication—perfect for adult dessert tables.
- Hot Cocoa: Make it a winter indulgence with a mug of marshmallow-topped cocoa for the ultimate cozy pairing.
Pairing drinks with these cookies makes dessert feel just a little more elevated—even if they took just 20 minutes to bake.
FAQs: Red Velvet Cake Oreo Cookies
Can I use any flavor of Oreos in red velvet cake cookies?
Yes! While classic chocolate Oreos are the go-to, you can easily use Golden, mint, birthday cake, or seasonal flavors. Each variation adds a unique twist to your red velvet Oreo dessert. Just make sure to keep the ratio of crushed cookies the same so the dough texture stays balanced.
What’s the best way to keep red velvet cookies soft?
The key is to slightly underbake them and let them finish setting on the pan. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment between layers. Avoid refrigerating unless you’ve added cream cheese filling.
Are red velvet Oreo cookies better with cream cheese filling?
It depends on your taste. Adding a cheesecake filling creates a gooey, rich center that mimics the classic red velvet and cream cheese pairing. It’s a great option if you want more indulgence, but even without it, these cookies are soft, flavorful, and satisfying.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free sandwich cookies. For dairy-free versions, skip the white chocolate chips or use a plant-based brand, and stick with vegetable oil instead of butter.
Should I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling isn’t required, but it’s helpful if your dough is too sticky or you want thicker cookies. A short 15–30 minute chill firms up the dough and prevents spreading, especially if your kitchen is warm.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Use parchment paper or silicone mats, scoop evenly, and avoid placing dough on a hot baking sheet. Chilling the dough slightly and not overmixing are both great ways to keep your cookies thick and chewy.
Conclusion
Red velvet cake Oreo cookies are everything a dessert should be: bold in flavor, simple to make, and packed with joy. Whether you’re baking a quick batch for a weeknight treat or preparing festive cookie trays for a holiday gathering, this recipe delivers chewy centers, crunchy Oreo pieces, and that unmistakable red velvet richness every time.
From the convenience of cake mix to the versatility of Oreo flavors, this is a cookie you can make your own—no special equipment, no stress. Just good, honest baking with bakery-style results.
So preheat that oven, grab your favorite Oreos, and let’s bake something beautiful together.
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