Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the egg and egg yolk, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla and food coloring until the batter is uniformly red.
- Fold in the sour cream to keep the dough tender and moist.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low until just combined. If using white chocolate chips, gently fold them in now.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating on low until incorporated, then increase speed and add vanilla and a pinch of salt.
- Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip or a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped. Refrigerate the filling for 15–20 minutes.
Assemble and Bake
- Scoop dough using a cookie scoop to portion onto a plate. Flatten each scoop slightly into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
- Pipe a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling onto the center of half the discs. Top with another disc and gently press the edges to seal.
- Place the sealed cookies on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar or sprinkles if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and tops look slightly matte. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough. To prevent filling leaks, chill the assembled cookies before baking.
