Introduction
These Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies without cocoa are the ultimate indulgence for this festive season! Their rich red hue coupled with a velvety texture makes them a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Each cookie is filled with creamy goodness, offering a perfect blend of flavors that embodies the spirit of celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are a must-try during this delightful season.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Add the red food coloring until fully combined.
4. Gradually stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Press a thumb gently into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set. Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
8. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
9. Once cookies are cool, use a piping bag or spoon to fill each thumbprint with the cream cheese mixture.
These Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are sure to become a favorite this season, offering a blend of celebration and sweet satisfaction!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2/3 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Flavoring
Mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add 2 tablespoons of red food coloring and mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Roll the Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Create Indentations
Press your thumb gently into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling by beating 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Fill the Thumbprints
Once the cookies are cool, use a piping bag or spoon to fill each thumbprint with the cream cheese mixture.
Notes
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Food Coloring
Adjust the amount of red food coloring to achieve your desired shade of red.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for gatherings and festive occasions. Serve with milk or hot cocoa for a delightful treat.
Optional Toppings
Consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the filled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Start by blending softened butter with granulated sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy texture. This is crucial for aerating the mixture, ensuring your cookies have a tender crumb.
Coloring the Dough
When adding red food coloring, mix it in thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of color in the dough, giving your cookies that signature red velvet appearance.
Making Thumbprint Indentations
Gently pressing your thumb into the center of each cookie ball before baking creates the perfect well for the filling, enhancing both presentation and taste.
Cooling Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. This helps set their shape and ensures they are ready for filling.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Using a piping bag can make filling the thumbprints easier and more visually appealing.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you do, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.
How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them before filling.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Is there an alternative to red food coloring?
A natural alternative is beet juice, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat for any festive occasion. Their velvety texture combined with a creamy filling makes them irresistible.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Red Velvet Cupcakes
Transform the cookie recipe into soft and fluffy red velvet cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting.
Cheesecake Bars
Create a delicious cheesecake bar with a red velvet crust for a unique dessert experience.
Red Velvet Cake Pops
Combine cookie crumbs with cream cheese filling and dip in chocolate for a fun twist on the classic treat.
Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Cookies
Add chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful flavor contrast in your red velvet cookies.
Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting
Use a vanilla bean cream cheese frosting to complement the cookies for an added burst of flavor.
