Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies

The scent of vanilla and cocoa always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, especially during the holidays. I was just a little girl, maybe five or six, helping her mix ingredients for what felt like the most magical cookies on earth. My hands, sticky with dough, would press gently into the center, creating the perfect little indent for a sweet surprise.

That memory, that feeling of warmth and anticipation, is exactly what inspired these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. They combine the classic, luxurious taste of red velvet with a tangy, rich cream cheese filling, making every bite a delightful journey through tradition and innovation. They are truly one of Sweet Magnolia’s most requested treats, a testament to those cherished moments and the joy of sharing something truly special.

These homemade red velvet cookies capture hearts every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You absolutely must try these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies! First, the vibrant red color instantly catches your eye, promising a festive treat perfect for any occasion. Imagine bringing a plate of these stunning cookies to your next gathering; they always receive gasps of delight.

Then, consider the taste. Each cookie features a soft, tender red velvet base, rich with notes of cocoa and vanilla, perfectly contrasted by the sweet, tangy, and incredibly smooth cream cheese filling nestled in its center. It’s a match made in dessert heaven, a classic flavor combination that never disappoints.

You get the best of both worlds: a beloved cake flavor in an easy-to-manage cookie form. Moreover, these cream cheese thumbprint cookies are surprisingly simple to make, even for novice bakers. The steps are straightforward, and the results are consistently spectacular.

You’ll feel like a professional baker crafting these delightful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. They’re perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, birthday parties, or just a cozy evening treat. Trust me, once you bake your first batch of these amazing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies, they will become a staple in your recipe collection. You’ll adore how easily these red velvet cookies with cream cheese filling come together and how quickly they disappear from the plate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect batch of these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies starts with quality ingredients. Gather these essentials from your pantry and refrigerator to ensure amazing results every time.

For the Red Velvet Cookie Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons red gel food coloring (use good quality for vibrant color)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces (1 block) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnishing (Optional):

• Extra powdered sugar or white chocolate shavings

Every ingredient plays a vital role in creating these magnificent Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. The vinegar, often a surprise for some, helps activate the baking soda and enhances the red color, giving these velvety red cookies their signature hue. Don’t skip it!

Using softened butter and cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free dough and a silky filling. These homemade red velvet cookies truly stand out.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s bake some incredible Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies! Follow these steps carefully for a batch of perfectly tender, vibrantly colored, and utterly delicious treats. Precision makes all the difference when creating these gorgeous red velvet cookies with cream cheese filling.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking for your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.
• Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth dough and filling.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution throughout the dough for your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients for the Cookie Dough

• In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
• Add the white vinegar, vanilla extract, and red gel food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed and vibrant. This gives your red velvet cookies their iconic hue.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. The dough for your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies should be soft and bright red.

Step 5: Form the Cookies

• Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
• Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon (like a teaspoon) to create an indentation in the center of each cookie ball. Be gentle but firm to make a nice well for the filling. These are, after all, Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers might still look slightly soft.
• Remove from the oven and, if the indentations have puffed up, gently re-press them with your thumb or spoon to redefine the well.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling thoroughly is important before filling your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

• While the cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This smooth filling is the heart of your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.

Step 8: Fill and Garnish

• Once the cookies are completely cool, spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling into the indentations of each cookie. A piping bag with a round tip makes this step neat and professional.
• Optionally, dust with a little extra powdered sugar or sprinkle with white chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Now, step back and admire your beautiful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies! Enjoy them fresh, and share them with loved ones. These homemade red velvet cookies are truly a labor of love.

What to Serve With This Recipe

These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are already a showstopper on their own, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich. But, like any delightful treat, they can be enhanced by pairing them with the right beverage or complementary dessert. Here are some of my favorite ideas from Sweet Magnolia:

Beverage Pairings:

• Coffee: A classic choice! A rich, freshly brewed cup of coffee or a creamy latte provides a lovely counterpoint to the sweetness of the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. The slight bitterness of the coffee beautifully cuts through the richness.
• Milk: For a comforting and nostalgic experience, a tall glass of cold milk is absolutely perfect. It’s simple, classic, and always a hit with these velvety red cookies.
• Hot Cocoa: Especially delightful during cooler months or holidays, a warm mug of hot cocoa with a dollop of whipped cream makes for an indulgent pairing with these cream cheese thumbprint cookies.
• Tea: A mild black tea like English Breakfast or Earl Grey, or even a simple herbal tea, can offer a refreshing balance without overpowering the delicate flavors of the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.
• Sparkling Wine or Champagne: For a more sophisticated occasion, a dry sparkling wine or champagne offers a celebratory fizz that can surprisingly complement the sweetness and creaminess.

Dessert Companions:

• Fresh Berries: A simple bowl of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) adds a burst of freshness and a light, tart contrast to the rich cookies.
• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream alongside these homemade Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies creates a dessert that’s truly decadent. The warm cookies and cool ice cream are a match made in heaven.
• Fruit Sorbet: If you prefer something lighter, a lemon or raspberry sorbet offers a palate-cleansing tartness that works wonderfully with the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add an extra cloud-like texture and a touch more richness without being overwhelming.
• Chocolate Mousse: For the ultimate chocolate lover, a small serving of light chocolate mousse alongside the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies would be a dream come true.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re perfect for dessert spreads, holiday platters, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones.

These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are already a showstopper on their own, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich. To complement them with a delightful dessert, try the Blueberry and Raspberry Croissant Puff for an exquisite pairing.

FAQs

Can I make the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough for these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies up to 2-3 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before rolling and shaping. This makes these cream cheese thumbprint cookies very convenient for busy schedules.

Why did my thumbprints disappear while baking?

This can happen if your cookie dough is too warm or if you didn’t press firmly enough. If the indentations puff up during baking, don’t worry! Immediately after removing the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies from the oven, gently re-press the center with your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to reform the well. This quick fix ensures perfect Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies every time.

Can I use liquid red food coloring instead of gel?

While you can use liquid food coloring, I highly recommend using gel food coloring for these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. Gel food coloring is much more concentrated, allowing you to achieve a vibrant red color without adding excess liquid that can alter the dough’s consistency. If you only have liquid, you might need to use more and adjust the flour slightly if the dough becomes too sticky for your red velvet cookies.

How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from melting?

The key to preventing the cream cheese filling from melting is to ensure your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are completely cooled before filling them. If the cookies are even slightly warm, the heat will cause the cream cheese to soften and possibly run. Patience is a virtue here, leading to perfectly set cream cheese thumbprint cookies.

Can I freeze these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze them! For best results, I recommend freezing the baked cookies unfilled. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Thaw at room temperature, then prepare and add the fresh cream cheese filling. You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls. This makes it easy to have fresh homemade red velvet cookies whenever a craving strikes for these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies.

What if I don’t have white vinegar?

White vinegar helps activate the baking soda and enhances the red color in these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. If you don’t have it, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or even buttermilk. The acidity is what’s important for the reaction and flavor development in your red velvet cookies.

Are these Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies suitable for a cookie exchange?

Absolutely! These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies are a fantastic choice for any cookie exchange. Their vibrant color, delicious flavor, and festive appearance make them a standout. They are always a favorite and disappear quickly!

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a creamy filling, creating an irresistible treat. These cookies are not only visually striking but also provide a delightful taste experience, making them popular during festive gatherings and special occasions. For more on the origins of red velvet desserts, check out this article.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one of these delightful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies. Please remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and precise measurements used. This information is provided to help you understand the general nutritional content of these homemade red velvet cookies.

Enjoy these amazing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each cookie is a lovely treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies

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• Author: Rosie
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies combine the luxurious taste of red velvet with a tangy, rich cream cheese filling, making every bite a delightful journey through tradition and innovation. They are visually stunning and perfect for various occasions.

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Ingredients

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2 ½ cups All-purpose flour
¼ cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon Baking soda
½ teaspoon Salt
1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups Granulated sugar
2 large Eggs
1 tablespoon White vinegar
1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons Red gel food coloring
8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
½ cup Unsalted butter, softened
4 cups Powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then add the white vinegar, vanilla extract, and red gel food coloring
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Make an indentation in the center of each ball
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. After baking, re-press the indentations if needed. Let cool
7. Prepare the cream cheese filling by beating the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt
8. Fill the indentations in the cooled cookies with the cream cheese filling

Notes

For best results, use quality gel food coloring and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 10-12 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 300 kcal
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 160 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg