Can I freeze these red velvet thumbprint cookies?

Yes, freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a container once solid. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use boxed red velvet cake mix?

You can, but homemade dough yields a richer flavor and better texture.

How do I prevent the filling from cracking?

Avoid overbaking and ensure the filling is smooth and not overfilled.

Are these cookies similar to tea cakes?

Yes, the texture is soft and cake-like, reminiscent of old-fashioned tea cakes but with a creamy cheesecake twist.

Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese – A Festive Delight for Every Christmas Table

Name: Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese – A Festive Delight for Every Christmas Table
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp red food coloring; 1 tsp white vinegar; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ tsp vanilla extract; Optional: crushed candy cane or sprinkles for garnish

Description

Festive red velvet thumbprint cookies with a smooth cream cheese filling, perfect for Christmas baking and holiday cookie exchanges.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

½ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg yolk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp red food coloring

1 tsp white vinegar

For the filling:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

¼ cup powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla extract

Optional: crushed candy cane or sprinkles for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add egg yolk, vanilla, red food coloring, and vinegar. Mix well.

5. Gradually add dry ingredients until dough forms. Chill for 15–20 minutes.

6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and make thumbprint indentations.

7. Mix cream cheese filling ingredients until smooth.

8. Spoon a small amount into each cookie’s center.

9. Bake for 10–12 minutes until set at the edges.

10. Cool completely before serving. Optionally decorate with sprinkles or crushed candy cane.

Notes

For best color, add a little extra red food coloring.

Chill the dough before baking to help cookies hold shape.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges and tea-time desserts.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American