Name: Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies for Sweet Comfort
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 56 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 1 large Egg (no substitutions recommended); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free flour works); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure freshness); ½ teaspoon Salt; ¼ cup Sugar for Rolling (use cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon; 2 tablespoons Butter (for Filling) (melted); 1 cup Dulce de Leche (store-bought or homemade)

As I pulled my first batch of cookies from the oven, the warm scent of cinnamon filled the air, instantly wrapping me in a cozy embrace. These Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they’re pure comfort food made simple. Picture soft, spiced cookie layers hugging a luscious, creamy filling of dulce de leche. Perfect for gatherings or those quiet afternoons when you need a little sweetness, this recipe is a fast favorite, utilizing pantry staples to create an irresistible dessert. You’ll love how these cookies hint at nostalgia with every bite, offering both the joy of baking and a satisfying treat to share with loved ones. Ready to indulge in this delightful cookie experience? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and creamy dulce de leche creates a sweet harmony that will leave you craving more.

Effortless to Make: With just a few pantry staples, these cookies come together quickly and easily, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as is, or swap out the dulce de leche for Nutella or peanut butter for a fun twist.

Picture-Perfect Presentation: These sandwich cookies look as delightful as they taste, making them a hit at any gathering.

Lasting Memories: Every bite evokes nostalgia, reminding you of cozy family moments spent sharing homemade treats. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or even warm coffee—just like our Cinnamon Sugar Donut recipe!

Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to get started on your delicious cookie adventure!

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture to the cookies; use softened butter for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the cookie together; no substitutions recommended.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensure freshness for best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Sugar for Rolling – Creates a crunchy outer layer; use cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice to the cookies.

For the Filling

Butter (for Filling) – Ensures the dulce de leche is smooth and easy to spread.
Dulce de Leche – A creamy filling that adds a rich caramel flavor; store-bought or homemade can be used.

Dive into these irresistible Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies and surprise yourself with a comforting treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This base will give your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies a rich flavor and airy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack in 1 large egg and pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This step enhances the sweetness while ensuring the batter remains smooth, setting the stage for a delightfully soft cookie.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. This dough will create the perfect structure for your cinnamon sandwich cookies, providing a delectable chew.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape into balls later and ensuring that the cookies hold their form during baking.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
While the dough chills, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This cinnamon-sugar mixture will give your cookies a sweet and spicy exterior, enhancing the delightful flavor of the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies.

Step 6: Shape and Coat the Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar coating until well-covered. Place the coated cookie balls on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges yet still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; you want the cookies to be warm and inviting, giving off a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen with delightful anticipation.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling time allows the cookies to set, ensuring they maintain their chewy texture while not losing their shape.

Step 9: Prepare the Filling
In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat, then stir in 1 cup of dulce de leche until smooth and well combined. This creamy filling is what brings the Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies together, enhancing the flavors and adding a rich, sweet contrast to the spiced cookies.

Step 10: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous dollop of the dulce de leche filling on the bottom of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies to create delightful sandwiches. Allow them to rest for about 1 hour, enabling the flavors to meld beautifully and the filling to set up for easy handling.

How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving; they’ll taste just as delightful!

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds to revive their delightful texture before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply scoop and roll the dough into balls, then coat with cinnamon-sugar. Store the unbaked cookies in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, the dulce de leche filling can be made up to 3 days in advance; just keep it refrigerated to maintain its smooth consistency. When it’s time to serve, bake the cookie balls directly from the fridge for fresh, warm cookies, then assemble with the filling for delightful, just-as-delicious sandwiches!

Helpful Tricks for Dulce de Leche Cookies

Chill Dough Properly: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven.

Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter incorporates better with sugar, creating that light, fluffy texture that your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies deserve.

Don’t Skip the Cinnamon-Sugar: Coating the cookie balls in cinnamon-sugar not only enhances flavor but adds a beautiful, crunchy texture. Avoid plain sugar to maintain the cookie’s richness.

Cool Before Filling: Allow cookies to cool completely before sandwiching with dulce de leche filling. Filling warm cookies can lead to a messy treat and loss of flavor.

Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap out dulce de leche for Nutella or peanut butter for a fun twist on this classic cookie recipe. Each variation can create delightful new flavors!

What to Serve with Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies

Pair these delightful sandwich cookies with thoughtful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing! The creamy richness of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting combo.
Warm Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the cinnamon notes, making each bite even more enjoyable during a cozy afternoon.
Hot Chocolate: Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat! The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the caramel-like filling, creating a delightful contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side for a delectable dessert à la mode, adding a creamy texture that complements the cookies perfectly.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits can provide a refreshing contrast; think juicy berries or citrus to cut through the sweetness and add brightness.
Spiced Chai Tea: The spices in chai echo the cinnamon in the cookies, making for a warming, aromatic drink that enhances the cozy vibe.

Elevate your dessert table by putting together a delightful assortment that complements the sweet, rich flavors of the Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies!

Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to elevate your cookie experience!

Nut-Free: Replace the dulce de leche with a sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option that still delivers creaminess.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar for a sweet-and-spicy explosion in every bite.
Flavored Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut for an unexpected, nutty twist that stirs your creativity.
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate shredded coconut into the cookie dough for a delightful tropical touch to the flavor profile.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough before rolling for a decadent chocolatey surprise inside each cookie.
Fruit Infusion: Include dried cranberries or raisins in the dough for a burst of flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle extra melted dulce de leche on top right before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

These lively variations will give your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies a fun twist! For more delightful treats, try the corresponding recipes like the indulgent Apple Cinnamon German pancakes or the delectable Almond Cherry Cookies. Enjoy your delicious cookie journey!

Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripe ingredients?
For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ingredients. Ensure your unsalted butter is softened but not melted, as this allows for better creaming with the sugar. The granulated sugar should be free from lumps, while the egg you pick should be fresh for optimal binding and moisture, resulting in tender cookies.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store your Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and preserves the delightful contrasts of textures. If you live in a humid environment, consider adding a piece of bread in the container to help absorb moisture and maintain their freshness.

Can I freeze the cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the cookies and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. You can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving so they regain their deliciousness.

What do I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively, it might mean the dough was too warm or not chilled long enough. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping, and ensure your baking sheets are cool before placing unbaked cookies on them. This small step can make a significant difference in maintaining the shape of your cookies!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
These cookies contain potential allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you’re serving guests with allergies, consider making gluten-free substitutions with your flour and ensuring the dulce de leche is free from allergens. For a vegan version, look for egg substitutes and plant-based butter options, and use a vegan dulce de leche recipe.