Caramel Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Cream Sandwich Cookies represent the epitome of indulgent baking, seamlessly blending the rich, buttery essence of homemade cookies with a luscious caramel frosting that envelopes each sweet bite. This beloved recipe, passed down through generations, embodies comfort and nostalgia, evoking memories of family gatherings, holiday festivities, and cozy afternoons spent indulging in homemade treats. The allure of these cookies lies not only in their sumptuous flavor but also in their delightful texture—crisp edges contrasted by a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb, complemented by a velvety caramel filling that oozes with every bite. Crafted with a meticulous balance of ingredients and techniques, these cookies are designed to impress both casual snackers and connoisseurs of fine baked goods. As a signature offering on Love With Recipes, this recipe aims to elevate your baking repertoire, providing detailed guidance to ensure perfect results every time. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent snack, these Caramel Cream Sandwich Cookies promise to deliver satisfaction and a touch of nostalgia, making them a timeless addition to your dessert collection.

Time

Preparation Time: 40 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula
• Cookie sheet(s)
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling racks
• Small saucepan
• Fork (for flattening cookies)
• Wire cooling racks
• Small offset spatula or butter knife (for spreading frosting)
• Storage containers with lids

Tags

• Baking
• Cookies
• Desserts
• Sweet treats
• Caramel
• Homemade
• Snack
• Holiday
• Family recipe

Serving Size

Approximately 30 sandwich cookies

Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Allergen Information

• Gluten: Yes (contains wheat flour)
• Dairy: Yes (butter, milk, powdered sugar)
• Eggs: No (uses egg yolk only in dough)
• Nuts: No, unless added as an add-on
• Soy: No

Dietary Preference

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Vegan: No (contains dairy and eggs)

Course

Dessert / Snack

Cuisine

American / Classic Homemade Cookies

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

Caramel Frosting

Instructions

Preparation Phase: Making the Cookie Dough

Begin by preparing your baking workspace. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, attach your hand or stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and dark brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for approximately 3–4 minutes, or until the mixture appears fluffy, pale, and well-incorporated. This process is crucial as it develops the base flavor and ensures a tender cookie. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any unmixed ingredients. Next, add the egg yolk along with the vanilla extract. Mix on low to medium speed until fully blended, resulting in a smooth, cohesive mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed to prevent flour from flying out and to achieve a uniform dough. Once combined, the dough should be soft but manageable. If the dough feels sticky or overly soft, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle. Chilling also enhances flavor and prevents spreading during baking.

Baking the Cookies

After chilling, scoop the dough into 1-inch diameter portions. You can use a cookie scoop or your hands to form uniform balls. Place these onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Using a fork dipped in flour to prevent sticking, gently flatten each ball in one direction to form a round, disc-like shape approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. This technique creates a slightly textured surface and ensures even baking. Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 10–14 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, as overbaking can lead to overly crisp cookies, which may not be ideal for sandwich cookies. Look for a light golden hue around the edges; they should be set but still tender. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 1 minute, which helps them firm up slightly. Using a spatula or tongs, transfer the cookies to wire cooling racks and cool completely before filling. Proper cooling is essential to prevent melting the frosting during assembly and to achieve the perfect texture.

Preparing the Caramel Frosting

While the cookies cool, prepare your caramel frosting. In a small saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning and to achieve a light golden tone, signaling the development of rich caramel flavors. Once golden, remove the pan from heat promptly. Immediately stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 4 tablespoons of milk. Mix vigorously with a whisk or spatula until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding additional milk a teaspoon at a time if the mixture is too thick, or by adding a touch more powdered sugar if too runny. The goal is a spreadable, velvety frosting that can be easily dolloped or spread onto the cookies. If you prefer a more intense caramel flavor, you can incorporate a pinch of sea salt into the frosting, creating a salted caramel variation.

Assembling the Sandwich Cookies

With all components cooled and ready, it’s time to assemble. Using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a round tip, dollop or pipe about 1 teaspoon of caramel frosting onto the flat side of one cookie. Spread gently with the back of the spoon or an offset spatula to create an even layer. Top with another cookie, pressing gently to ensure the filling spreads towards the edges and forms a complete sandwich. Repeat this process for all cookies. For a more uniform appearance, you can use a piping bag to apply the frosting neatly. Once assembled, refrigerate the cookies for about 30 minutes to set the filling and improve flavor melding. These cookies are best enjoyed within 3–4 days, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent the filling from becoming too soft.

Preparation Tips

• Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the dough sufficiently to prevent excessive spreading and to enhance flavor development.
• For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop and measure ingredients carefully.
• When flattening cookies with a fork, dip the fork in flour to prevent sticking and create a textured pattern.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the filling.
• Adjust the frosting’s consistency with milk or powdered sugar depending on your preference for spreading vs. piping.
• Refrigerate assembled cookies to help the filling set and improve overall texture.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For an extra depth of flavor, toast the flour lightly in the oven before incorporating into the dough, which adds a subtle nutty aroma.
• Experiment with different types of sugars, such as coconut sugar, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a hint of spice that complements the caramel frosting.
• Use a silicone spatula to fold ingredients gently, preserving the airiness of the dough and resulting in softer cookies.
• Chill the frosting briefly if it becomes too runny for spreading, or warm it slightly if too thick for piping.
• For a more decadent touch, sprinkle crushed sea salt or chopped nuts on the frosting before assembling the cookies.

Add-ons

• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled onto the frosting before sandwiching for added crunch.
• A drizzle of dark chocolate over the assembled cookies for a chocolate-caramel fusion.
• Sprinkles of flaky sea salt on the frosting for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Adding a layer of dulce de leche or caramel sauce in lieu of frosting for an extra-rich experience.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter with berries and sliced apples to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream served on the side for a dessert pairing.
• Hot beverages such as coffee, espresso, or hot chocolate to complement the cookies.
• Cheese platter with mild cheeses to contrast the sweetness of the cookies.

Improvements

• Use homemade caramel sauce for the frosting for an authentic, deep caramel flavor.
• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the frosting for a sophisticated twist.
• Incorporate a layer of fruit jam or preserves in the sandwich for added flavor complexity.
• Experiment with different types of flours such as almond or oat flour for gluten-free options.
• Dip the finished cookies in tempered chocolate for a shiny, elegant finish.

Save and Store

Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and flavor. Place the assembled cookies in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep the cookies refrigerated if filled with frosting to prevent spoilage. For longer storage, they can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy optimal texture and flavor. Re-crisp cookies can be achieved by warming them slightly in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

FAQ

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before scooping and baking.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of homemade frosting?

Absolutely. Choose a high-quality caramel sauce, warm it slightly, and spread it between the cookies. Keep in mind that homemade frosting provides a fresher, more customizable flavor, but store-bought options are a quick and convenient alternative.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Replace the butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use a vegan caramel sauce or make a coconut-based frosting. Omit the egg yolk or replace it with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute.

What is the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chill the dough thoroughly before baking, and avoid overmixing. Using a slightly firmer dough and flattening cookies gently with a fork can also help maintain their shape.

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?

Not in their current form, as they contain wheat flour. For gluten-free versions, substitute with almond flour, oat flour, or a certified gluten-free baking flour blend.

Conclusion

Creating these Caramel Cream Sandwich Cookies is not merely a baking project but an experience that connects you to cherished family traditions and the art of creating comfort through confectionery. Their irresistible combination of buttery cookie and rich caramel filling makes them a standout treat suitable for any occasion. The meticulous process, from preparing the dough to assembling the delicate sandwiches, offers a rewarding journey into baking mastery. Whether you serve these cookies at festive gatherings, give them as heartfelt homemade gifts, or indulge in them as a personal reward, they are sure to leave a lasting impression. Remember, the key to perfect cookies lies in patience, quality ingredients, and a dash of love—elements that Love With Recipes wholeheartedly encourages you to infuse into every batch. Happy baking, and may these cookies become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

References

1. The Joy of Baking: Classic Cookies by Stephanie Jaworski, 2014.

2. Salted Caramel Desserts: A Gourmet Guide by David Lebovitz, 2017.