Embrace the fusion of classic red velvet cake and the comforting appeal of homestyle cookies with our Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. Steeped in a bit of culinary mystery, red velvet's origins are debated, with some tracing it back to the Victorian era as a luxury cake and others attributing its fame to the American South. Regardless of its beginnings, these cookies, with their striking red color and rich cream cheese filling, are sure to steal the show at any event. They're not just a delight to the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making them the perfect addition to your family's dessert spread or the highlight of your next community potluck.
These thumbprint cookies are delightful on their own, but for an enhanced experience, pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of your favorite coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of assorted fruits or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more luxurious dessert.
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Servings: About 24 cookies
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional for drizzling)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Form 1-inch dough balls and place them on the baking sheets. Press a thumbprint into each ball.
For the filling, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fill each cookie indent with this mixture.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Avoid overbaking.
Allow the cookies to cool briefly on the sheets before transferring to wire racks.
Optionally, drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.
Variations & Tips:
Sprinkle red sugar on the filling before baking for a festive look.
Use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
Omit food coloring for a classic “Velvet” Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookie.
Chill the dough if it's too sticky.
Happy baking! We hope these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies add joy and deliciousness to your gatherings.