A warm, sweet aroma fills the air, transporting me to sunlit afternoons spent conspired over laughter and good company. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies—a delightful treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With a tender, spiced cookie enveloping a luscious caramel filling, these cookies are a simple pleasure that will brighten any day. They require minimal time in the kitchen and just a handful of pantry staples, making them the perfect choice for busy families or a sweet escape after a long day. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or impress your friends during the next get-together, these cookies will surely steal the show. Ready to discover the magic of these delightful bites? Let’s get baking!
Why Choose Dulce de Leche Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and rich dulce de leche creates an unforgettable taste experience that lingers with each delightful bite.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is designed for busy cooks—with simple steps and just a few key ingredients, you can whip these up in no time!
Versatile Options: Enjoy the flexibility of swapping out ingredients or adjusting flavors to suit your craving; experiment with spices or add nuts for a unique twist.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love getting involved in making these cookies, making them a perfect activity for creating joyful memories in the kitchen together.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookie sandwiches look stunning on any dessert table, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or a sweet gift for loved ones.
Dive into the world of homemade cookies with these Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies, perfect for sparking joy!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture; can substitute with coconut sugar for a more natural option.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap for almond extract for a delightful twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides necessary structure; feel free to use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise and creates a light texture; no substitutions needed.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; use sea salt for a refined touch.
- Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Coating for added sweetness and crunch; substitute with powdered sugar for a different texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; consider pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
For the Filling
- Butter (for filling) – Adds silkiness to the dulce de leche filling; don’t skip it! Substitutions may alter texture.
- Dulce de Leche – The star filling that provides sweetness and creaminess; you can use homemade dulce de leche made from sweetened condensed milk.
These Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are sure to become a cherished treat in your home, bringing smiles with each indulgent bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated, which should take about 1 minute.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your cream mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough should be cohesive and slightly sticky; this is the base for your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies.
Step 3: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential as it makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring a nice, soft center with a lightly crisp edge.
Step 4: Make Cinnamon Sugar
While the dough chills, prepare the cinnamon sugar by combining ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Stir them together until evenly mixed; this will give your cookies a delightful coating that enhances their flavor and adds a beautiful finish.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 16-24 equally sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated; this will create a sweet crust on your cookies as they bake.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cinnamon-sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft and puffy. Keep an eye on them, as underbaking slightly will help achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 7: Prepare Filling
While the cookies cool on a wire rack, prepare the filling by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, mix in 1 cup of dulce de leche until smooth and creamy. This silky filling is what makes these Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies irresistibly delicious.
Step 8: Assemble
After the cookies have cooled completely, take one cookie and spread a generous layer of the dulce de leche filling on its flat side. Top it with another cookie to create a delightful sandwich. Gently press them together to ensure the filling comes to the edges, and repeat this process until all cookies are assembled for an indulgent treat.
What to Serve with Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Indulging in these delightful sandwich cookies opens the door to creating a memorable meal experience that warms the soul.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety ice cream pairs beautifully with the cookies, enhancing their sweet flavors and providing a cold contrast. Try melting a little over the warm cookies for an extra treat.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing tartness, cutting through the sweetness of the dulce de leche filling while bringing a pop of color to your dessert table.
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Rich Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your cookie sandwiches for an indulgent twist, turning each bite into a delightful celebration of flavors.
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Coffee or Espresso: A steaming cup of coffee complements the warm spices of the cookies, providing a cozy pairing that enhances the overall dessert experience. It’s the perfect pick-me-up during an afternoon gathering.
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Milk: Keep it classic with a glass of cold milk for dunking. The milk’s creaminess balances the rich caramel filling perfectly, making it a comforting combination reminiscent of childhood treats.
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Chai Tea: Spice up your dessert experience with a warm cup of chai tea. The aromatic spices in the tea echo the warmth of cinnamon and connect beautifully with the flavor profile of your cookies.
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Mason Jar Parfait: Layer crumbled cookies with yogurt and fruits in a jar for a fun presentation. This playful dessert brings a delightful crunch and creamy texture, creating a new spin on indulgence.
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Toast with Nutella: Spread Nutella on warm toast and take bites in between cookie sandwiches for a delightful mix of textures and flavors that elevate the whole meal experience.
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Caramel Drizzle: A touch of extra caramel sauce drizzled on top elevates both the aesthetic and flavor of your dessert. This simple addition will leave guests coming back for more!
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Nutty Biscotti: For a satisfying crunch, serve alongside nutty biscotti to add another layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy cookies.
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies your own with these fun variations!
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Nutty Delight:
Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a satisfying crunch. These additions give a beautiful texture and extra flavor that complements the rich dulce de leche. -
Pumpkin Spice:
Swap cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice to bring in a cozy, autumnal twist. This seasonal variation is perfect for fall gatherings! -
Gluten-Free:
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy. It maintains the chewy softness while accommodating gluten-sensitive friends. -
Sweet and Salty:
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the dulce de leche filling. This contrast enhances the flavors and makes for a mouthwatering experience in every bite. -
Chocolatey Indulgence:
Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate-infused version of these cookies. Pair with the dulce de leche for a delightful chocolate-caramel combination. -
Spicy Surprise:
Stir in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth. This surprising kick can elevate the cookies and impress adventurous taste buds! -
Caramel Swirl:
Layer a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the dulce de leche filling. This extra layer of indulgence is bound to be a hit at any dessert table. -
Fruity Fusion:
Mix in a tablespoon of zest from your favorite citrus fruit (like orange or lemon), or even diced dried fruits for a refreshing twist; this brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
Embrace the joy of baking by experimenting with these variations, and don’t forget to try pairing these cookies with a rich coffee or a side of fresh fruit for a delightful afternoon treat!
Storage Tips for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delicious soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer filling, refrigerate the assembled cookies for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best experience.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling for fresh, tasty Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies.
Reheating: If you’ve stored filled cookies in the fridge, you can gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the filling—just be careful not to overheat!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent drying. If you’d like to save even more time, you can bake the cookies and store them unfilled for up to 5 days. Just remember to let them cool completely before filling to ensure the dulce de leche maintains its silky texture. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the filling and assemble your cookies for an indulgent treat that will delight everyone!
Expert Tips for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Ensure you take the time to chill the dough properly; this helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, keeping them fluffy and soft.
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Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Always roll the dough balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking, not plain sugar, to enhance flavor and texture in your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies.
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Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool fully before adding the filling to avoid melting the dulce de leche; this ensures a delightful sandwich without any mess.
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Don’t Skip the Butter: When preparing your dulce de leche filling, adding butter offers silkiness that is essential for easy spreading—skipping it may lead to a thicker, less manageable filling.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking; underbake them slightly for that ideal soft center that melts in your mouth.
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, ensure the butter is softened but still cool to the touch for easy creaming with sugar. Use fresh eggs, as they bind the dough effectively. If using flour, opt for all-purpose or gluten-free blends that don’t have any clumps. Ground cinnamon should have a vibrant aroma; discard any that smells stale.
How should I store the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them even fresher longer, consider refrigerating the assembled cookies for up to 3 days—just let them warm to room temperature before indulging. This will maintain that delightful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies, I recommend first baking the unfilled cookies. Layer them in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature and fill with dulce de leche for a fresh, delightful treat.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies tend to spread excessively, make sure you chill your dough adequately before baking—about 10-15 minutes should suffice. If they still spread too much, check that your baking soda isn’t expired, and be mindful of your oven temperature; sometimes, using an oven thermometer can help provide the right heat to maintain their shape.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Those with gluten sensitivities can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always check your dulce de leche label or opt for homemade versions to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Just keep in mind to inform guests about ingredients for potential allergies!
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies That Melt Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Refrigerate the dough for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into balls, coating in cinnamon sugar.
- Bake dough balls for 9-11 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are soft.
- To prepare filling, melt butter and mix with dulce de leche until smooth.
- Spread dulce de leche filling on one cookie and sandwich with another cookie.
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