Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Large egg: 1
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons
- Red liquid food coloring: 1 tablespoon
- Cream cheese: 4 ounces (softened)
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup (for filling)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the large egg until well combined.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the red food coloring until the dough is uniformly deep red.
- Step 3: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball.
- Step 4: Bake for 10-12 minutes. While the cookies are baking, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar (and a splash of vanilla bean paste, if desired) until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, pipe or spoon the cream cheese mixture into the thumbprint indentations. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the filling before serving.
Notes
- Store finished cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- These cookies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature; avoid microwaving as the cream cheese filling may separate or become overly soft.
- For an elegant presentation, garnish the filled centers with a dusting of extra cocoa powder or finely crushed freeze-dried raspberries before the final chill.
- For the deepest, most vibrant red velvet color, use concentrated gel food coloring instead of the specified liquid coloring, as it provides saturation without changing the dough consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American