As I sifted through my pantry, the memory of those fluffy, soft Sugar Cookie Sandwiches came rushing back. With edges that are ever-so-slightly crisp and centers that melt in your mouth, these cookies are a delightful way to elevate any gathering. Filled with homemade cream cheese buttercream, each bite strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and zest, especially when you add a hint of citrus. Not only are they super simple to whip up, but they also make a sweet centerpiece for parties or a cozy afternoon snack. Ready to indulge in the ultimate cookie experience? Let’s dive into the world of these soft and chewy sandwich cookies!
Why Are These Cookies Irresistible?
Soft, Chewy Bliss: These sugar cookie sandwiches offer a delightful balance of a crisp exterior and a soft center, ensuring every bite is a pleasurable experience.
Cream Cheese Filling: The homemade cream cheese buttercream is creamy and flavorful, elevating the cookie to dessert perfection.
Versatility at Its Best: Customize the flavor with optional citrus zest or almond extract to please any palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies impress every time. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk for a nostalgic treat that warms the heart. Enjoy other delightful cookie recipes like Chocolate Chip Cookies or Butter Toffee Cookies to keep the sweetness flowing!
Sugar Cookie Sandwich Ingredients
• Your journey to perfect sugar cookie sandwiches starts here!
For the Cookies
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; can be substituted with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Fresh Orange or Lemon Zest (optional) – Imparts a citrusy aroma and flavor; almond extract (1½ tsp) is a perfect alternative.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures richness and moisture; be sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
- Large Egg + Egg Yolk – Binds the ingredients together and enhances moisture for that chewy texture.
- Gel Food Coloring (optional) – Brightens up the appearance; use sparingly to achieve desired hues.
- Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste – Adds depth of flavor; in a pinch, vanilla essence works too.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure; fluff and level it for accurate measurement.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise, creating a light texture.
- Fine Salt – Balances the sweetness to perfection.
For the Cream Cheese Buttercream
- Unsalted Butter – The base for a creamy frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy whipping.
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and a delightful tang to the frosting.
- Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste – Infuses the frosting with sweet flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust for desired consistency.
- Heavy Cream or Milk – Used to achieve the perfect creamy texture in the frosting.
For the Sugar Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Provides a sweet, sparkling finish; feel free to add zest for an extra flavor boost.
With these ingredients, you’ll craft unforgettable sugar cookie sandwiches that are perfect for any gathering—let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking these delightful sugar cookie sandwiches. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and lift off effortlessly once they’re done.
Step 2: Mix the Citrus Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar with the optional lemon or orange zest. Gently massage the zest into the sugar using your fingers for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This fragrant blend sets the stage for soft and chewy sugar cookie sandwiches, enhancing their aroma and flavor when baked to perfection.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Add the room temperature unsalted butter to the citrus sugar mixture. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream them together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the moist, tender texture that makes sugar cookie sandwiches irresistible.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavoring
Next, mix in one whole large egg, an additional egg yolk, and the vanilla extract. If you’re using gel food coloring, add a small amount during this step. Continue to beat the mixture until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth, taking about 2 minutes. This adds richness and moisture to your cookies.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could lead to tough sugar cookie sandwiches. Stop when the dough forms and no flour streaks remain.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish and place them evenly spaced on the lined baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each ball to allow for spreading while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the sugar cookie sandwiches in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, monitoring them closely. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are set and slightly golden while the centers remain soft. This will ensure your cookies have that perfect chewy texture.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring to a wire rack. It’s crucial for maintaining the soft, chewy centers that define sugar cookie sandwiches.
Step 9: Prepare the Buttercream
For the cream cheese buttercream, whip together softened unsalted butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat until smooth and creamy, around 2-3 minutes. This creates a luscious filling that will complement your sugar cookie sandwiches beautifully.
Step 10: Add Flavor and Blend
Next, mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of your buttercream. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream or milk, until you achieve your desired consistency. This creamy filling should be sweet but not overly thick, perfect for spreading between the cookies.
Step 11: Assemble the Sandwiches
Pair your cooled cookies by size for an even sandwich. Use a piping bag or a small spatula to spread a dollop of cream cheese buttercream on the flat side of one cookie. Gently press another cookie on top to create a delightful sugar cookie sandwich. Repeat this for the remaining cookies until you’ve assembled all sandwiches.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Your sugar cookie sandwiches are now ready! Serve them up with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea and watch as smiles spread around the table. Take a moment to enjoy the delightful blend of crisp edges and chewy centers filled with luscious cream cheese buttercream that makes these treats so special.
Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious sugar cookie sandwiches, adding your own twist or dietary needs to make them truly yours!
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Almond Extract: Replace citrus zest with almond extract for a nutty flavor that adds a cozy warmth to your cookies.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a chocolatey base, pairing beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
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Citrus Twist: Swap the orange or lemon zest for lime zest for a tropical twist that brightens up each sandwich.
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Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese and margarine to create a delightful, dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same soft, chewy texture for those avoiding gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm spice flavor that enhances the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that contrasts the chewy centers.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of your assembled sandwiches for an indulgent and decadent finish.
With these variations, you can enjoy endless possibilities of flavors and textures, keeping your baking adventures exciting! For more cookie inspiration, try my Butter Toffee Cookies or whip up some Monster Cookie Energy balls for a sweet snack anytime.
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure both butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy buttercream without lumps for your sugar cookie sandwiches.
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Avoid Over-mixing: Mix the cookie dough just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture we all desire.
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Bake with Care: Under-bake your cookies slightly; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet due to residual heat, ensuring a deliciously chewy center.
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Storage Secret: Keep your sugar cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to five days.
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Flavor Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap the citrus zest for almond extract to create a different flavor profile in your sugar cookie sandwiches.
Storage Tips for Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
Room Temperature: Store sugar cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for a delightful snack.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the sandwiches for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag.
Reheating: If you’ve frozen the cookies, thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting. Warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Cookie Sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be prepped in advance! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. The baked cookies can also be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the cream cheese buttercream, prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, just remember to let it sit out for a bit to soften before spreading. When you’re ready to serve, pipe the chilled buttercream between the cooled cookies for delightful, on-demand sweetness that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
Imagine delighting your friends and family with an unforgettable dessert spread that complements the sweet indulgence of sugar cookie sandwiches!
- Glass of Milk: The classic companion, creamy milk balances the sweetness, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Cup of Herbal Tea: A warm cup infused with chamomile or mint adds a soothing flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of seasonal fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese filling.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These decadent treats echo the sweetness of cookies while adding a hint of chocolatey delight.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside your cookies for an indulgent, melty treat that’s sure to impress!
- Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Light and bubbly, a splash of citrus makes for a refreshing drink that keeps the palate cleansed.
- Caramel Sauce for Dipping: Drizzle warm caramel over your sugar cookie sandwiches for an extra layer of sweetness and a silky texture.
Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
What type of sugar should I use for the cookies?
I recommend using granulated sugar as it adds sweetness and helps the cookies maintain their structure. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, you can substitute some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar, which also gives your cookies a lovely, rich undertone.
How should I store the sugar cookie sandwiches?
Store your sugar cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the un-frosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and roll into balls. Additionally, ensure that you measured your flour accurately—fluff it up, spoon it into the measuring cup, and level it off to avoid excess moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Yes! If you are making these sugar cookie sandwiches for someone with allergies, be cautious with the flour, butter, and cream cheese, as these are common allergens. You can also create a nut-free version by replacing almond extract with vanilla or leaving it out entirely. Always check the labels on store-bought items like cream cheese and butter for allergen information.
Delicious Sugar Cookie Sandwiches with Creamy Filling Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine granulated sugar with optional zest; massage zest into sugar.
- Cream butter with the citrus sugar mixture for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; add gel food coloring if desired.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl; gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Shape dough into 1-1.5 inch balls; roll in sugar before placing on baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes until edges are set and slightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Whip unsalted butter and cream cheese for buttercream until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt, then add powdered sugar alternating with cream or milk.
- Pair cookies by size and spread buttercream on the flat side of one.
- Press another cookie on top to form a sandwich; repeat for all cookies.
- Serve with milk or tea and enjoy!
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