Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese: A Decadent Holiday Treat

The holidays are a time for indulgence, celebration, and creating memories around food. Few desserts capture the festive spirit quite like Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese. These delightful little treats combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the creamy tanginess of cream cheese filling, all in a bite-sized cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or gifting, these cookies are sure to be the star of your dessert spread. Let’s dive into the details of making this decadent holiday treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are a Must-Try

• Eye-Catching Appearance: The vibrant red hue and creamy white filling make these cookies a show-stopper.
• Rich and Flavorful: With cocoa undertones and a luscious cream cheese filling, each bite is a flavor explosion.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive look, these cookies are simple enough for even novice bakers.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative tins or boxes, and they make thoughtful homemade gifts.
• A Holiday Favorite: Their festive colors and irresistible taste make them perfect for any holiday celebration.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese

For the Cookie Dough

Ingredient	Amount
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder	2 teaspoons
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup
Granulated sugar	¾ cup
Brown sugar	½ cup
Egg yolks	2
Red food coloring	4 teaspoons
Pure vanilla extract	1 teaspoon

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Ingredient	Amount
Cream cheese (softened)	4 ounces
Granulated sugar	¼ cup
Pure vanilla extract	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set this aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolks, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Form Dough Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
2. Create Thumbprints: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press gently into the center of each ball, forming a small well.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Fill the Cookies: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag for precision, or use a small spoon to fill the wells of each cookie with the filling.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake: Place the filled cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the filling is slightly firm.
2. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the Cookies: Place the cookies on a festive plate or platter to serve.
2. Share the Joy: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

1. Use Gel Food Coloring: For vibrant red cookies without altering the dough’s texture, opt for gel food coloring.
2. Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges are set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
3. Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
4. Add a Festive Touch: Sprinkle the cookies with edible glitter or crushed candy canes for extra holiday flair.
5. Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Creative Variations

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra richness.
2. Citrus Twist: Mix a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a tangy surprise.
3. Nutty Flavor: Roll the dough balls in finely chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
4. Peppermint Perfection: Replace the vanilla in the filling with peppermint extract for a holiday twist.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute for a celiac-friendly version.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie (Approx.)
Calories	120
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugar	9g
Protein	1g

FAQs About Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

1. Can I use a different type of filling?

Yes! Swap the cream cheese filling for chocolate ganache, caramel, or fruit jam.

2. Do these cookies freeze well?

Absolutely. Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough before shaping, and use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.

5. What type of cocoa powder works best?

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder is ideal for achieving the classic red velvet flavor.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily to accommodate larger batches.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

From their festive red hue to their decadent flavor, Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese are the epitome of holiday cheer. These cookies are easy to make, look stunning on a dessert table, and are guaranteed to delight friends and family alike.

Get Baking Today!

Ready to add a touch of decadence to your holiday celebrations? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging on your own, Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese are sure to bring joy to every bite.

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