Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

There’s something magical about Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies—vibrant red, soft, and filled with a luscious cream cheese center. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, Valentine’s Day, or just when you want a festive, sweet treat. With their buttery texture, delicate cocoa flavor, and irresistible creamy filling, they’re bound to become a favorite for cookie lovers of all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, tender cookies with a subtle cocoa flavor.
• Creamy, dreamy cream cheese filling adds a rich contrast.
• Perfectly festive with bright red color for holidays or special occasions.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
• Keeps well in the fridge, making them great for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the soft cookie base.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds subtle chocolate flavor and deep red contrast.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise lightly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Ensures a tender, rich texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and adds slight crunch.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – Binds ingredients and gives moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring – Creates the signature vibrant red hue.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling) – Creates a sweet, sparkling coating.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Adds creamy richness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides smooth texture.
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted – Sweetens and thickens the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds aromatic flavor.

How to Make Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring until vibrant red.
4. Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape during baking.

Shape and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Place the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a shallow dish.
3. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and coat generously with sugar. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
4. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, make a gentle indent in the center of each cookie. Do not press all the way through.
5. Bake 8–10 minutes until edges are set and lightly browned, but centers are still soft. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cookies

1. Once cookies are completely cool, spoon or pipe cream cheese filling into the indent of each cookie.
2. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Success

• Do not overmix dough; overworking develops gluten and leads to dry cookies.
• Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft and tender.
• Chilling dough helps maintain the cookie’s shape and prevents spreading.
• Use a cookie scoop for even sizing and uniform baking.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets and parchment paper
• Wire rack for cooling
• Small spoon or piping bag for filling

Recipe Variations

• Mini Thumbprints: Make smaller cookies and reduce baking time by 1–2 minutes.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra indulgence.
• Flavored Filling: Mix a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese filling for a citrus twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea.
• Serve on a festive platter for holiday parties.
• Garnish with crushed red velvet crumbs or sprinkles for extra flair.

FAQs

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Dough can be chilled up to 2 hours before baking. Filled cookies store in the fridge for 4–5 days.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies without filling for up to 3 months. Fill after thawing.

Can I substitute cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter for a vegan version.

Why are my cookies dry?
Overmixing the dough or overbaking are the most common causes. Follow timing closely and chill the dough.

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Conclusion

These Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of tender cocoa cookies and creamy, sweet filling. Perfectly festive, soft, and vibrant, they’re an easy-to-make dessert that will wow family, friends, and holiday guests. Bake a batch, enjoy the rich colors and flavors, and create sweet memories with every bite!