Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

A festive bake that balances rich cocoa flavor with a luscious, tangy center.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 17, 2025

A festive bake that balances rich cocoa flavor with a luscious, tangy center.

Introduction to Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

Red velvet thumbprint cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookie recipes, offering a vibrant red color and a surprising cream cheese filling. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them ideal for gatherings and special occasions. The combination of red velvet’s distinctive taste and the cream cheese’s tanginess creates a unique culinary experience that is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

To make these cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 stick salted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons red gel food coloring
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions for Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture

Start by whisking together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined. Then, add the red gel food coloring and mix until the color is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Flour Mixture

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually beat in the flour mixture until just combined. Refrigerate the dough for about 20 minutes to firm it up.

Step 5: Prepare the Cookies for Baking

Preheat the oven to 3506F (1756C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll tablespoonfuls of the chilled dough into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat, then place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Use your thumb or a small spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through. The cookies are done when they are set and the bottoms are light golden brown. Let them cool on the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Filling

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese filling by beating the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl with a mixer on medium speed until well combined.

Assembling the Thumbprint Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, pipe or spoon about a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling into the indentation of each cookie.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Red velvet thumbprint cookies are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

To add some extra flair to your cookies, consider the following variations:

Add Some Chocolate Chips: Mix in some white or semisweet chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolatey treat.
Use Different Food Coloring: Experiment with different colors to match themed parties or holidays. For example, use green for Christmas or pink for Valentines Day.
Try a Different Filling: Replace the cream cheese filling with a Nutella or peanut butter filling for a different twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why are my cookies not turning out red?

A: Ensure you are using enough red gel food coloring. Gel food coloring is more concentrated than liquid food coloring, which makes it ideal for achieving vibrant colors.

Q: Can I freeze the dough instead of baking immediately?

A: Yes, you can freeze the dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before proceeding.

Q: How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

A: To prevent cookies from spreading, make sure the baking sheet is cool and the butter is not too soft. Chilling the dough can help the cookies retain their shape better during baking.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb