Sandwich Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Filling Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines classic comfort with a touch of elegance, then the Sandwich Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Filling Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture soft, buttery sugar cookies rolled in sparkling sugar crystals, baked to perfection, and lovingly sandwiched with a luscious, creamy vanilla filling that’s irresistible. This recipe is easy enough for even a busy weeknight but special enough to impress guests or make an ordinary day feel celebratory. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple for holidays, parties, or just a cozy afternoon with tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie success. Each one brings something essential to the table: texture, flavor, or that perfect sweetness. These simple pantry staples work harmoniously to create cookies with tender crumb and a rich vanilla filling that melts in your mouth.

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and tenderness for your cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to be soft and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a slight lift and lightness to the dough.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cookies their buttery richness and moist crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and creates a crisp sugar coating.
• 1 egg: Binds everything together for the perfect dough consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses classic warmth and fragrance.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nuttiness that elevates the flavor complexity.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Keeps the dough smooth and easy to work with.
• Additional sugar for rolling: Provides a sparkling, crunchy exterior.
• Vanilla Filling: Combining 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream to create a luscious, dreamy filling.

How to Make Sandwich Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Filling Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan cleanly for that perfect presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Setting these aside ensures they’re evenly distributed, contributing to the ideal texture when combined with your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Beat in the egg for structure, then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts add layers of flavor that will shine through every bite of your finished cookie.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk to maintain the dough’s softness. Blend just until combined to avoid overworking, which keeps your cookies tender.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into rounded teaspoon-sized balls, then gently coat each ball in additional sugar. This technique not only adds crunch but also creates that iconic sparkling appearance. Place the balls two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the sheets briefly before transferring to wire racks to cool completely, which is essential for the filling process.

Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Filling

While your cookies cool, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract. Slowly add heavy cream to achieve a spreadable, fluffy consistency that will hold its shape between cookies.

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Once cooled, spread a generous amount of vanilla filling on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another. Repeat this step for all cookies until you have your beautiful, delicious treats ready for sharing or savoring.

How to Serve Sandwich Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Filling Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a tiny pinch of colored sugar crystals or edible glitter on top of the filling for a festive look. If you want a little extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate over the sandwiches or dip the edges in finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee to balance their sweetness. For a fun dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a glass of cold milk, making each bite even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these charming sandwich sugar cookies on a tiered dessert tray to wow your guests at holiday parties. Wrap a few in cellophane tied with a ribbon for adorable homemade gifts, or stack them in a mason jar as a sweet centerpiece anyone can enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your sandwich sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain the perfect softness of the cookies and moist texture of the vanilla filling, making it easy to enjoy anytime.

Freezing

If you want to save the magic for later, place the assembled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready to thaw gently and satisfy your sweet cravings whenever you want.

Reheating

For a fresh-baked feeling, warm sandwiches slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens the filling and cookies just enough to revive their fresh, tender texture without melting the filling completely.

FAQs

Can I use a different extract instead of almond?

Absolutely! While almond extract adds a lovely subtle nuttiness, you can substitute it with lemon or coconut extract to create a different flavor twist, or simply omit it to keep the classic vanilla profile.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill your dough briefly before rolling into balls. Also, spacing the dough balls evenly on the baking sheet gives them room to bake without sticking together or blending into one large cookie.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a similar texture and taste. Just be sure to check that your leavening agents are gluten-free as well.

Can I make the vanilla filling dairy-free?

Sure! Use dairy-free butter and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk mixed with a little cornstarch for thickness. This way, you keep that creamy filling perfect for those with dietary needs.

How long do these cookies stay fresh once filled?

Once assembled, they are best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cookies soft and the filling fresh without drying out or becoming too sticky.

Final Thoughts

The Sandwich Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Filling Recipe is one of those timeless delights that feels like a warm hug in cookie form. They’re simple to make, delicious to eat, and versatile enough for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try making them and share the joy they bring with your friends and family. Happy baking and even happier snacking!

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