I accidentally wiped a dot of thermal paste across my CPU socket. I already cleaned it out with alcohol, and had to use a fine needle to try and clear a few holes. Is there any danger to my CPU if there is thermal paste left behind? That is assuming I clean it up well enough for the pins to fit safely back in the socket?

Nah it’s fine

As stated above, you'll be ok.

I just want to point out to do your best cleaning the socket, gently, with a q-tip. Don't go inside each pin-hole trying to get the paste out. You don't need it to be perfectly clean as if it came out of the factory. You just want it good enough so that the CPU pins make contact and sits well inside the socket.

Pretty much what I did. I did use a tiny needle just to clean 2 holes that got packed in, but I've since got everything running and it's all good

CPU pin cooling new meta? Post your temps.