Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (50g)
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp (15ml) red food coloring
- 1 tsp (5ml) white vinegar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
- 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
- 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar until the color is uniform.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft, vibrant red dough forms.
- Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls, place them on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to stabilize the fats.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Roll each chilled dough ball first in granulated sugar to create a moisture barrier, then roll heavily in powdered sugar until completely white.
- Place the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool the cookies on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.