If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These sandwich cookies combine a delightfully soft cinnamon-spiced cookie with luscious, creamy dulce de leche filling, making every bite a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create this magical cookie. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of butter, or the silky smooth texture of dulce de leche.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies their tender yet sturdy texture, perfect for sandwiching filling.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle spicy warmth that complements the sweet filling beautifully.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and achieve just the right chewiness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the cookie’s overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Softened for the dough and filling, it brings richness and moisture to every bite.
- Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel undertones that pair perfectly with cinnamon.
- Large egg: Binds the dough together and ensures perfect texture.
- Vanilla extract: Lifts and rounds out the flavors wonderfully.
- Granulated sugar: Used to roll the dough balls for a slight crunch and sparkle on the cookie surface.
- Dulce de leche: The star of the filling that makes these cookies unforgettable, whether homemade or store-bought.
How to Make Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl — the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt all create the foundation for these fragrant cookies. In another larger bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy; this step is critical for a soft, tender crumb. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet, mixing carefully until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky mass. This combination ensures your cookies will be perfectly tender and full of flavor.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, which means the cookies will spread less during baking and hold their shape beautifully.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats. This preparation makes clean-up a breeze and prevents sticking.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to add a slight crunch and sparkle. Place them with space between each ball on the baking sheets, then gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon to help them bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes or until they’re just beginning to turn golden on the edges. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this prevents them from breaking and lets them firm up perfectly.
Step 7: Make the Filling
While the cookies cool, whip together the dulce de leche, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what elevates the entire cookie experience to something truly special.
Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cool, spread a generous dollop of the dulce de leche filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie to form delightful little sandwiches. Repeat this process until all the cookies are perfectly paired up.
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe: Final Step
Let the assembled sandwich cookies set for a few minutes so the filling can firm up a bit, then indulge in the incredible combination of tender cinnamon cookie and rich dulce de leche. Enjoy every bite of your stunning creation!
How to Serve Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of beauty and flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar or dusting the finished cookies lightly with powdered sugar. A few finely chopped nuts like pecans can also add delightful texture and presentation flair.
Side Dishes
These sandwich cookies pair wonderfully with a warm drink like chai tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. The spicy notes in the cookies complement these beverages perfectly and create a balanced tasting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies on a decorative platter with a ribbon tied around them for a festive gift. You could also slice them in half and add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and savory twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps the cookies soft and the filling lush without drying out or becoming overly sticky.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the unassembled cookies separately by layering them between parchment paper in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before adding the filling for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently warm the assembled sandwich cookies in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5 minutes. Be careful not to melt the filling too much, just enough to soften the cookies and enhance their aroma.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dulce de leche in this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade dulce de leche works beautifully and can add an extra layer of flavor. Just make sure it’s smooth and creamy to spread easily in your sandwich cookies.
What can I substitute for cinnamon if I don’t have any?
If you’re out of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add warmth, though the flavor will be slightly different. Cinnamon does give these cookies their signature character, so try to use it if possible.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cinnamon sandwich cookies remain fresh for about 4 days at room temperature. Beyond that, they might lose their softness and the filling could start to dry out.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be aware the texture might change slightly, but the flavors will still shine wonderfully.
Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg. Also, look for vegan dulce de leche or make your own using coconut milk for the filling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly rewarding about baking and sharing the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe. The balance of warm cinnamon flavors and silky dulce de leche filling makes these cookies a standout for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making and savoring these delightful treats—happy baking!
Print
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat featuring soft cinnamon-spiced cookies sandwiched with a creamy dulce de leche filling. Perfectly balanced in sweetness with a hint of cinnamon warmth, these cookies are ideal for sharing or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
For the Dulce de Leche Filling:
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the large egg and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and fully blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient batter, mixing gently until the dough is fully incorporated. The final dough should be soft yet not sticky to the touch.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to coat, then place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball with the back of a spoon to promote even baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, beat the dulce de leche, softened unsalted butter, and vanilla extract together until the filling is smooth and creamy, ready for spreading.
- Assemble the Sandwich Cookies: When the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of the dulce de leche filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat this process for the remaining cookies.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the assembled sandwich cookies to set for a few minutes so the filling firms slightly. Serve and enjoy these indulgent Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies with your favorite beverage.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better cookie texture.
- Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading and to handle it more easily for shaping.
- You can use store-bought dulce de leche for convenience or make your own by simmering sweetened condensed milk.
- Store the sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For a variation, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra warmth.
