As the aroma of cinnamon wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a warm rush of nostalgia. Embracing the cozy vibes of homemade desserts, I often find myself reaching for my go-to recipe for Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies. This delightful treat is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s also a quick and easy way to transform pantry staples into something truly special. With their tender, spiced cookies embraced by a creamy dulce de leche filling, these cookies are guaranteed to leave a smile on any face. And, whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, they’re sure to evoke that comforting feeling we all crave. Ready to whip up some magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the sweet details!
What Makes These Cookies Irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe involves quick steps using common pantry ingredients, so you can whip up a batch with ease.
Irresistible Flavor: The delightful mix of cinnamon and dulce de leche creates a perfect harmony of warmth and sweetness that will keep you coming back for more.
Versatility: Feel free to customize with substitutions like chocolate ganache or peanut butter, allowing you to tailor these cookies to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a party or surprising the family, these cookies are a hit with everyone, making them ideal for any occasion.
Make-Ahead: Bake a batch in advance, freeze them unfilled, and enjoy fresh cookies when you need them most. Don’t forget to pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for an elevated treat!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create a crunchy exterior; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; a flax egg works well as a vegan substitution.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; try almond extract for a unique twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping cookies rise.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
For the Filling
• Dulce de Leche – This creamy filling melts in your mouth; substitute with chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for variation.
• Butter – Adds silkiness to the dulce de leche; omit if using a pre-made product that’s already creamy.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness; always mix with cinnamon before rolling the cookies to ensure flavor integration.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds that beloved aroma and spice; adjust according to personal taste.
These Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are not just a treat but a heartfelt experience in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for best results. The texture should resemble whipped cream, signaling it’s time to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Add Egg & Vanilla
Next, add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing for about 1 minute until everything is well combined and smooth. The mixture should appear glossy and slightly thickened, indicating that the wet ingredients are ready for the dry ones.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be cohesive and slightly sticky, perfect for rolling into balls once chilled.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and preventing it from spreading too much during baking. After chilling, the dough should feel firmer to the touch, ready for shaping.
Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
While the dough is chilling, combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This fragrant mixture will give your cookies a delightful coating.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is sufficiently chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Coat each ball in the prepared cinnamon sugar, ensuring they are well covered, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done. The scent of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are almost ready!
Step 8: Prepare Filling
While the cookies cool, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of dulce de leche and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to thicken before using it as your delicious filling.
Step 9: Assemble Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, take one cookie and spoon a generous amount of the dulce de leche filling onto its flat side. Place another cookie on top, pressing gently to create a sandwich. The sweet and creamy filling should peek out from the sides, ready to be enjoyed in your homemade treat!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own—they’re perfect for customizing!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter and dulce de leche with coconut oil and dairy-free condensed milk for a delicious, vegan twist.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added crunch and flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace the dulce de leche with rich chocolate ganache or Nutella for a decadent variation that’s sure to satisfy every chocolate craving.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies without compromise.
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Fruitful Twist: Use fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot instead of dulce de leche for a fruity touch to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
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Cinnamon Raisin: Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries to the cookie dough for a chewy texture and a burst of fruity flavor in each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon-sugar mixture for an unexpected but delightful heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
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Cream Cheese Filling: Instead of dulce de leche, whip together cream cheese and powdered sugar for a tangy, sweet filling that adds a unique flavor profile to your cookies.
Feel free to explore these variations, and consider pairing them with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk—for an elevated treat experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking. Additionally, you can make the dulce de leche filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble the cookies, ensure both components are at room temperature for easy spreading. These make-ahead tips ensure you can whip up a delightful treat with minimal hassle!
Expert Tips for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
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Mixing Sugar Right: Always blend cinnamon with sugar before rolling; rolling in plain sugar won’t provide the delightful flavor you want.
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Chill Time Matters: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Cool Before Filling: Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the dulce de leche filling. This avoids melting and ensures a perfect texture.
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Perfect Consistency: Including butter in the dulce de leche filling is essential for achieving the right creamy consistency. Don’t skip this step!
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Bake With Care: Watch the cookies closely in the oven; they should be golden on the edges and soft in the center for the ideal sandwich experience.
What to Serve with Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Transport yourself to a cozy café setting as you enjoy these homemade, comforting treats alongside delightful pairings.
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Cold Milk: Complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a classic and comforting flavor combination that evokes childhood memories.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup balance the sweet richness of the dulce de leche, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Warm Hot Chocolate: Infuse your cozy treat time with warmth; hot chocolate’s creamy texture works beautifully with the cookies’ cinnamon notes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert twist that provides creamy contrast.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a burst of freshness, lightening the overall sweetness and enhancing your taste experience.
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Spiced Tea: Enjoy a cup of chai or spiced herbal tea to match the seasonal goodness of cinnamon, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Indulging in these pairings elevates your dessert experience, ensuring every moment spent with your dulce de leche cookies feels special.
How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week, layering with parchment paper to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Allow cookies to reach room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before filling with dulce de leche to enjoy the freshest taste.
Reheating: If desired, reheat filled cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to heat too long, as this can melt the filling.
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, ensuring the ripeness of your ingredients can enhance flavor and texture. When selecting your butter, it should be softened at room temperature to beat smoothly with the sugar. Choosing fresh, large eggs will ensure the right binding consistency. Always opt for fresh, aromatic cinnamon; if it has a faded scent, it may lack flavor.
How should I store these cookies, and how long do they last?
I often recommend storing these delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Just layer them with parchment paper to retain their softness. If you want to keep them for a bit longer, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze these Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! These scrumptious cookies can be frozen unfilled for up to 3 months. To do this, cool the baked cookies completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before filling them with dulce de leche.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough feels excessively sticky, try chilling it for an additional 10-15 minutes. This helps firm it up significantly. If it remains too sticky, you can incorporate a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is workable but still soft. Remember, dough texture can vary with humidity and temperature!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
When it comes to dietary adjustments, there are plenty of options! For a vegan version, simply substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens). For gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. If you’re concerned about allergies, be sure to check that your dulce de leche does not contain allergens for anyone you’re serving!
Delight in Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, continue mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Cover dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), scoop out dough and roll into balls, coating each in cinnamon sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are golden.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan, add dulce de leche, stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
- Once cooled, assemble cookies by adding dulce de leche filling between two cookies.
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