Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined.

Cream the softened butter with granulated and light brown sugars until light and fluffy, about three minutes.

Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

Stir in the red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade.

Combine the dry ingredients gradually with the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips if desired.

Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.