Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tsp (5-10ml) red gel food coloring
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
  • 1 tsp (5ml) white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (sifted)

Instructions:

  1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red gel food coloring until the mixture is a uniform, vibrant crimson.
  2. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed.
  3. Stir in the white vinegar last until the batter becomes slightly lighter in color and fluffier.
  4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to prevent spreading.
  5. Scoop the chilled dough into 1.5 tablespoon balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until completely white and coated.
  6. Place balls on a parchment-lined sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. Remove when the edges are just set but the centers still look slightly soft.