There’s nothing quite like the scent of baking cookies wafting through the house—it’s a timeless call to comfort and warmth. Recently, while daydreaming about the sweet treats of my childhood, I realized how much I craved something indulgently simple yet undeniably delightful. Enter these Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies, a cozy concoction that merges the rich creaminess of dulce de leche with the warm, homey notes of cinnamon-spiced cookie layers.
As I mixed the ingredients, I could already picture these delightful treats gracing the dessert table at a family gathering, or even just enjoying one with a cup of tea on a lazy afternoon. With just a handful of readily available ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for those of us who need a break from fast food and crave homemade goodness. Each bite not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also feels like a comforting hug, bringing back fond memories of simpler times. Ready to indulge in this lazy afternoon baking adventure? Let’s get started!
Why love Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Comforting Warmth: These cookies offer a cozy embrace with every bite, thanks to their soft, spiced layers and creamy dulce de leche filling.
Homemade Goodness: Crafted with easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy bakers seeking a quick and delightful treat.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy these cookies with coffee, tea, or milk, making them ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to solo snack sessions.
Time-Saving Delight: Whip them up in no time, offering a sweet escape from fast food cravings.
Nostalgic Flavors: The blend of cinnamon and caramel evokes cherished memories, connecting you to the warmth of home.
Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; swapping with margarine makes it dairy-free.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while keeping them light; consider a sugar alternative for a low-calorie option.
• Egg – Binds all the ingredients together and contributes moisture; a flax egg works well for a vegan alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; almond extract can be a lovely substitute for a different twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure to the cookies; gluten-free flour mix is a feasible alternative.
• Baking Soda – Essential for a great rise; always check that it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar Mix (Sugar + Ground Cinnamon) – Adds warmth and a delightful crunch; feel free to use a premixed spice blend if that’s easier.
For the Filling
• Butter (for filling) – Creates a silky and smooth texture for the dulce de leche; no substitutes are needed here for the best results.
• Dulce de Leche – The star filling, delivering creaminess and sweetness; store-bought is a time-saver, but homemade is always a treat if you have extra time.
Indulge in the magic of these Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies! Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy, which takes about 4 minutes. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until a smooth dough forms.
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Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough to the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures the cookies retain their shape while baking.
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Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This blend will coat the cookies for added flavor.
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Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 16-24 equally sized balls. Then, generously coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on a lined baking sheet.
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Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown while the centers stay soft.
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Cool Completely: Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their soft texture.
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Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and mix it with the dulce de leche until smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious filling.
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Assemble the Cookies: Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie, then top with another cookie to create a delightful sandwich. Allow them to rest for at least an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk for the ultimate treat experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are a perfect choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, bake the cookies and store them unfilled in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just keep them cool to maintain their softness. When you’re ready to indulge, simply whip up the filling by melting butter with dulce de leche, spread it between two cookies, and let the sandwiches rest for about an hour before serving. This way, your cookies will remain just as delicious and fresh, saving you valuable time on busy days!
Expert Tips for Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Ensure that you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
- Use Cinnamon-Sugar: Always coat the dough balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, as plain sugar won’t provide that warm spiced flavor that makes these cookies special.
- Cooling Time Matters: Allow your cookies to cool completely before adding the filling. If the cookies are warm, the dulce de leche may melt, leading to a messy situation.
- Easy Spreading: Mix a bit of butter into the dulce de leche for a silky, spreadable filling that won’t tear the cookies.
- Adjust for Sweetness: If using a sugar alternative, adjust based on taste preferences, ensuring the cookies still have that delightful sweetness in each bite.
Storage Tips for Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you anticipate a longer storage period, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days; just be aware that they may slightly harden.
Freezer: Assemble and freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Unfilled Cookies: You can store unfilled cookie layers for up to 5 days. Just add the dulce de leche filling before serving to maintain freshness.
Dulce de Leche Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these cookies by trying out these delightful twists!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for added texture and flavor. They’ll give your cookies a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar for a surprising heat that lingers just a bit. This twist offers a warm surprise that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up each bite. The citrus notes elevate the richness of the dulce de leche perfectly.
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Choco-Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a luscious chocolatey experience alongside the creamy filling. The combination of chocolate and dulce de leche is utterly decadent.
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Flavored Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut extract in the dough to create a unique flavor profile that adds a whole new dimension to your cookies. Each bite will carry a lovely nutty essence!
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Dulce de Leche Variety: Choose different flavored dulce de leche, like chocolate or coffee, for the filling to discover a unique twist on your classic recipe. It’s a simple change that creates a completely new treat.
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Oatmeal Delight: Mix in quick oats to the dough for a chewy texture and added heartiness. The oats give a nice rustic feel to your cookies—perfect for a cozy afternoon.
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Fruity Surprise: Add a layer of your favorite jam, like raspberry or apricot, alongside the dulce de leche for a delicious surprise in the center. The fruitiness brightens the cookies and balances the sweetness.
What to Serve with Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
These delightful treats are best enjoyed with pairings that elevate their cozy flavors and create a memorable dessert experience.
- Cold Glass of Milk: The classic companion that complements the sweetness of the cookies and balances their rich filling.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Cozy and indulgent, hot chocolate brings warmth and a comforting vibe alongside the cinnamon notes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ warmth.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness of the dulce de leche.
- Coffee or Latte: A cup of coffee, latte, or espresso enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication to your cookie enjoyment.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies adds another layer of indulgence and sweetness worth savoring.
- Cinnamon-Infused Tea: A warm cup of cinnamon tea ties in beautifully with the flavor profile, enhancing the overall cozy experience.
- Nutty Biscotti: The crunchiness of biscotti adds texture, making it an enjoyable contrast to the soft dulce de leche cinnamon sandwich cookies.
- Spiced Chai: The spiced notes of chai tea bring a delightful harmony to the rich, caramel-like flavor of the filling, creating a perfect pairing.
Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your unsalted butter, opt for high-quality brands for the best flavor. For sugar, granulated is your go-to, but brown sugar can also add a nice depth if you want to experiment. If using eggs, consider free-range for a richer taste. Freshness matters! Check the expiration dates to ensure everything is at its peak.
How should I store my Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
These delicious cookies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you keep them in the fridge, they can stay fresh for about 10 days; however, they might lose some of their soft texture. To maintain that delightful chewiness, bring them back to room temperature before diving in!
Can I freeze the Soft Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and they’ll be just as delightful as the day you made them.
What if my cookie dough spreads too much while baking?
Very! If you find that your dough spreads too much, ensure you chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, be sure to use fresh baking soda and avoid overmixing the dough, which can lead to excess spreading. If all else fails, try chilling the dough again for another 10 minutes before baking.
Are these cookies safe for people with allergies to dairy or gluten?
Yes, with a few adjustments! For dairy-free versions, swap unsalted butter for margarine and use a dairy-free dulce de leche or an alternative like coconut cream. For gluten-free cookies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix, ensuring your cookies will still be delicious and enjoyable!
How can I make these cookies even more special?
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the cinnamon-sugar mix for an extra kick! You can also try infusing the dough with almond or hazelnut extract, which will bring a unique twist to the traditional flavor profile. The more the merrier, after all!
Soft Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy, which takes about 4 minutes. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until a smooth dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes.
- In a shallow bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
- Roll the chilled dough into 16-24 equally sized balls, then coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on a lined baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown while the centers stay soft.
- Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and mix it with the dulce de leche until smooth and creamy.
- Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie, then top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Allow them to rest for at least an hour.