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) distilled white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) red food coloring gel
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring until the color is uniform and vibrant.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the dough to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to solidify fats.
  6. Preheat oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Using a cookie scoop, form the chilled dough into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar first to create a moisture barrier, then coat heavily in powdered sugar.
  8. Bake for 12 minutes until the cookies have risen and developed a cracked surface.