1 teaspoon white vinegar (enhances the red velvet flavor)
1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel preferred)
⅓ cup whole milk
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Chill: Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Prepare the Cookie Dough:
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until well combined.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until a smooth dough forms.
Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Assemble the Cookies:
Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Stuff the Cookies: Take a tablespoon of dough, flatten it in your palm, place a frozen cream cheese ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Roll into a smooth ball.
Bake: Arrange cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes, until edges are set.
Cool and Serve:
Cool on Baking Sheet: Let cookies sit for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve: Enjoy warm for a gooey center or chilled for a firmer texture.