There’s a certain joy that comes from creating a little magic in the kitchen, especially when it involves warm, gooey treats that beckon you with their sweet allure. As the aroma of melted butter and cinnamon begins to swirl around your home, you can’t help but feel that nostalgic sense of comfort that only freshly baked cookies can deliver.
After a busy week, I knew I needed a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings, and that’s when I stumbled upon the delightful concept of Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies. Imagine two soft, pillowy cookies that cradle a creamy dulce de leche filling, enhanced with the warm spice of cinnamon. What could be better than biting into that sweet treasure?
These cookies are not just delicious; they are a celebration of flavors that transport you to happy moments. Easy to make and sure to impress both friends and family, this recipe ensures a homemade treat is ready to take center stage at any occasion. Join me as we dive into this delectable adventure!
Why are Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies irresistible?
Indulgent flavors: These cookies feature a rich, creamy dulce de leche filling that pairs perfectly with the warm spices of cinnamon, creating a delightful flavor experience for every bite.
Superb texture: The soft, pillowy cookies provide a perfect balance with the gooey filling, ensuring each mouthful is a satisfying treat.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up this crowd favorite without any hassle.
Versatile delight: Whether for a cozy family gathering or a festive party, these cookies are sure to impress guests of all ages.
Quick baking time: In just 9-11 minutes, you can have your delectable sandwiches baked and ready, making them an ideal choice for those spontaneous cravings!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Butter (softened) – This ingredient creates a rich, flavorful base for your cookies.
• Sugar – A perfect sweetness that balances the cinnamon’s warmth; don’t forget the extra 1/2 cup for rolling!
• Egg – This binds everything together while giving your cookies their lovely structure.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm aroma and rich flavor that complements the dulce de leche beautifully.
• Flour – The foundation of the dough; all-purpose flour works great here.
• Baking Soda – This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt – A dash of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Cinnamon – A delightful spice that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dulce de leche filling.
For the Filling
• Butter (for filling) – Adds a silky smooth texture to the dulce de leche.
• Dulce de Leche – The star of this recipe, it provides a luscious and sweet center for your sandwich cookies.
For Rolling
• Cinnamon Sugar – Mix remaining sugar and cinnamon for rolling; it gives the cookies a warm, spiced exterior that’s utterly irresistible!
How to Make Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
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Cream together the butter and 1 cup of sugar in a large mixing bowl for about 4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creamy base sets the stage for your cookies’ delightful flavor.
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Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending for 1 minute until everything is well combined. You’ll start to notice that warm, inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir the ingredients until just mixed, ensuring there are no dry spots; the dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
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Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle when rolling into cookie balls.
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Combine the 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will coat the cookies for that beautiful, warm exterior!
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Roll the chilled dough into 16-24 balls, depending on your preferred cookie size. Don’t worry about perfection; it’s all about that homemade charm!
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Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s well covered. This adds extra flavor and a delightful crunch to the outside of the cookies.
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Place the coated balls on a parchment or Silpat-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for spreading during baking.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown but the centers remain soft to the touch.
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Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar on top of the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven for that extra touch of sweetness!
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Prepare the filling by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the dulce de leche until smooth and creamy.
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Spread a layer of the dulce de leche mixture on the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich it with another cookie, creating a delicious treat everyone will love!
Optional: Serve with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the perfect pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dulce de Leche Cookie Variations
Customization is the spice of life in the kitchen, so let’s explore delightful twists on these heavenly cookies!
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Coconut Bliss: Incorporate 1 cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flavor that maximizes sweetness and chewiness in every bite.
- Cocoa Twist: Swap out 1/2 cup of flour for cocoa powder to turn your cookies into rich chocolatey treats, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Spiced Kick: For an extra layer of warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ginger to the dough alongside the cinnamon for a delightful twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to make these treats accessible for everyone while still enjoying their deliciousness.
- Maple Flavor: Replace the vanilla extract with maple extract for a unique flavor enhancement that surprises with every bite.
- Boozy Infusion: Stir in 1 tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the filling for an adult version that elevates the dessert experience.
- Chili Cinnamon: For a hint of heat, sprinkle a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon-sugar mix; it adds an unexpected kick that balances the sweetness.
Tips for the Best Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie dough.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a perfect shape and texture.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; remove them from the oven when the edges are golden to maintain that soft center.
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Coat Generously: Roll the cookie balls well in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. A generous coating adds flavor and makes them visually appealing.
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Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely before adding the dulce de leche filling. This helps prevent melting and creates a perfect sandwich structure.
How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for delightful snacking.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze assembled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave individually for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
What to Serve with Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Imagine a cozy gathering where sweet treats and delightful flavors dance together on the table. These cookies will undoubtedly steal the spotlight, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavor of freshly brewed coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweet cookies, enhancing their rich dulce de leche filling.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious temperature contrast, perfect for dipping or sandwiching between cookies for extra indulgence.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over your cookies introduces a decadently rich layer that complements their sweetness while adding a beautiful presentation.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing balance to the sweet cookies, providing a burst of flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully.
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Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Sip on a cup of warm cinnamon hot chocolate for a delightful, cozy pairing that echoes the cookie’s flavors while bringing extra warmth to your gathering.
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Lemon Tart: The tangy zing of a lemon tart cleanses the palate, making it a fantastic accompaniment to the sweet, cinnamon-spiced cookies.
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Toasted Nuts: A handful of lightly salted, toasted nuts provides a crunchy texture that contrasts enchantingly with the soft cookies, adding depth to the dessert experience.
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Cup of Tea: A soothing cup of spiced chai or a light herbal tea creates a comforting pairing, washing over your taste buds alongside every bite of these sweet delights.
Make Ahead Options
These Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply roll the dough into balls, coat them with the cinnamon sugar mixture, and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. When it’s time to bake, just place them on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven — they’ll taste just as delicious as if they were made fresh. Additionally, the dulce de leche filling can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can assemble the cookies right before serving for an effortless and delightful treat!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting butter, make sure it is at room temperature for easy creaming. Fresh eggs should have a clean shell and be within the expiration date. For the flour, choosing all-purpose flour that’s properly stored helps ensure the best texture.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This just ensures they stay soft and ready for your next craving! If you prefer a firmer texture, try refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the assembled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To prevent them from sticking, place parchment paper between layers. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to overly warm dough. Make sure to chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before rolling into balls. Additionally, keep a close eye on the baking time; remember to remove them from the oven once they are lightly golden around the edges for the perfect soft center.
Are these cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Yes! This Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies recipe is nut-free, making it a great choice for gatherings. However, always double-check the labels on each ingredient, especially the dulce de leche, for potential cross-contamination with nuts.
Can I use a different filling instead of dulce de leche?
Absolutely! If dulce de leche isn’t your preference, consider using other sweet fillings like caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or even a fruity preserves for a different twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with what you love!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies That Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the butter and 1 cup of sugar in a large mixing bowl for about 4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending for 1 minute until everything is well combined.
- Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir the ingredients until just mixed, ensuring there are no dry spots; the dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm it up.
- Combine the 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Roll the chilled dough into 16-24 balls, depending on your preferred cookie size.
- Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s well covered.
- Place the coated balls on a parchment or Silpat-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar on top of the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Prepare the filling by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan. Stir in the dulce de leche until smooth and creamy.
- Spread a layer of the dulce de leche mixture on the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich it with another cookie.