Red velvet thumbprint cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy goodness and a gooey center that beckons with sweet promises. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s both rich in flavor and vibrant in color, like a little piece of happiness on your plate. festive peppermint swirl cookies These cookies make every occasion feel special, whether it’s a casual afternoon with coffee or a festive gathering where you want to impress your friends and family.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best way to achieve that vibrant red color?
- Can I freeze Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies?
- What filling options work well with these cookies?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable holiday party last year when I decided to whip up these delightful treats. The moment I pulled the red velvet thumbprint cookies out of the oven, my kitchen was filled with an aroma that made everyone flock towards me like hungry moths to a flame. delicious raspberry linzer cookies classic thumbprint cookie recipe With their striking red hue and creamy frosting nestled in the center, they were an instant hit. Let’s dive into this recipe for a truly delicious experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for any baking novice
- Each cookie delivers a delightful mix of flavors that will please any palate
- Their eye-catching appearance makes them perfect for celebrations or gifting
- You can easily personalize the filling to suit your taste preferences, adding extra fun!
I remember the faces of my friends when they took their first bite – pure bliss! They were practically begging for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our cookies; sifting ensures a light texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that rich chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens our cookies perfectly; you can adjust based on preference.
- Butter: Softened butter adds incredible richness; don’t forget to let it warm up!
- Eggs: Essential for binding; room temperature eggs work best for even mixing.
- Red Food Coloring: This isn’t just for show; it gives our cookies that iconic red hue!
- Vanilla Extract: For that warm, aromatic touch that enhances all flavors beautifully.
- Frosting or Jam Filling: Choose your favorite flavor for that thumbprint magic in the center!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking while ensuring easy cleanup later.
Create the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light in color. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring until well combined. Get ready for some vibrant color!
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep those cookies tender.
Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Press your thumb gently into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
Bake Them Up!: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Once cooled completely, fill each thumbprint with frosting or jam of your choice. cozy pumpkin dessert bars Enjoy these delightful red velvet thumbprint cookies while they’re fresh!
These cookies not only captivate with their stunning appearance but also deliver on taste – soft on the outside with a luscious surprise waiting inside! Perfectly paired with milk or coffee, they will quickly become your new favorite treat.
You Must Know
- Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are not just visually stunning; they offer a delightful blend of flavors
- The soft, chewy texture combined with the sweet filling makes every bite an experience
- Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will surely impress your friends and family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients while the butter softens. Then, cream it with sugar before adding eggs and vanilla for a perfectly blended dough.
Add Your Touch
Try swapping out the traditional jam filling for Nutella or peanut butter for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts on top for added crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For extra chewiness, warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use gel food coloring for a richer hue without altering the dough’s consistency
- Chill the dough before baking to maintain their shape
- Remember to space cookies apart on the baking sheet to prevent them from merging into one giant cookie!
The first time I made Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies, my kitchen smelled like a bakery, and my friends devoured them within minutes. It was a hit that sparked a cookie-making tradition in our friend group! For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
FAQ
What is the best way to achieve that vibrant red color?
Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for a deeper and more consistent red hue.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked dough balls and bake them fresh when needed.
What filling options work well with these cookies?
Popular fillings include raspberry jam, chocolate ganache, or even cream cheese frosting. For more inspiration, check out this Raspberry Cheesecake Bars recipe.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful blend of soft, chewy cookies with a gooey filling that makes every bite a taste sensation. Their striking red color and rich flavor make them perfect for any occasion, from casual coffee breaks to festive celebrations. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also easy to make, ensuring that you can impress friends and family with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Frosting or jam filling (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets and press your thumb gently into each ball to create an indentation.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Once cooled, fill each thumbprint with frosting or jam.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg





