Creating Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve delicious results:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
7. Form Cookies: Once chilled, scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart.
8. Create Thumbprints: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indent in the center of each cookie.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are soft.
10. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: While the cookies bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
11. Fill Thumbprints: Once cookies are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, fill each thumbprint with the cream cheese mixture.
12. Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll create amazing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies that will impress your family and friends.