Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies for 24

Instructions:

1. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and red gel coloring until the color is uniform.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft, mahogany-colored dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to ensure the cookies maintain their height.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of chilled dough and roll into a 1-inch ball. Place on a lined baking sheet.
8. Use your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon to press a deep well into the center of each ball.
9. Whip the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and stiff.
10. Pipe or spoon about 1 teaspoon of filling into each cookie center.
11. Bake for 10–12 minutes.