V-day's Red Velvet Sugar Cookies

Celebrate the sweetness of Valentine's Day with irresistible Red Velvet Sugar Cookies. These delightful treats combine the rich, velvety flavors of red velvet with the nostalgic charm of sugar cookies. Each bite is a harmonious blend of indulgent cocoa, a hint of butter, and a touch of vanilla, creating a symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. With their vibrant red color and heartwarming taste, these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are the perfect edible expression of love for your Valentine's Day celebrations. Share these delectable cookies with your loved ones and let the love and joy fill the air with every bite.

Equipment:

• Cookie Sheet 13" x 19" (OR Aluminized Steel Cookie Sheet, Commercial Grade Pure Aluminum Cookie Sheet, Cookie Sheet 13", 15", 17")
• 2-1 Scraper & Spatula 10"
• Brush and Spatula Set
• 4pcs Measuring Cups with Scraper
• Set of 3 Scalloped Cookie Cutters
• Whisk (Stainless Steel)
• Carbon Steel Rolling Pin 19"
• Set of 3 Cooling Rack

Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 small egg yolks
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon fine salt
• 6 white chocolate hearts

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a small baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, thoroughly mix melted butter, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.
3. Sprinkle flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt evenly over the dough, and gently stir until just combined.
4. Flatten and divide the dough in half by eye, aiming to get 3 cookies from each half.
5. Roll each portion of dough into balls, lightly coat them with extra granulated sugar, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies spread, start to crackle, and appear dry on top.
7. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. After the cookies have cooled for 10 minutes, gently press a white chocolate heart into the center of each cookie. Place the cookies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the hearts without melting too much.
9. Before serving, bring the cookies to room temperature.