Description
Without the classic cocoa powder, these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies bring you a unique twist on a beloved treat. Gleaming with that rich, red hue, and topped with creamy, dreamy cheese filling, these little bites of joy are perfect for any festive occasion or whenever the craving strikes!
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth. Add 1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon red food coloring, mixing until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or a small spoon to press an indent into the center of each cookie.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven. If needed, re-press the indents gently.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
While the cookies cool slightly, prepare the filling by beating together 4 ounces cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 8: Fill the Cookies
Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into the indents of the cookies. Enjoy them warm or let them cool completely.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Coloring Adjustment
Adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your preference for a more or less vibrant hue.
Filling Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavor extracts or toppings for the cream cheese filling, such as lemon zest or chopped nuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes