Sugar Cookie Sandwiches with Creamy Buttercream Filling

Sugar cookie sandwiches with creamy buttercream filling are an elevated version of the classic cookie. These delightful treats pair soft, buttery sugar cookies with a rich and fluffy buttercream, creating a luxurious and irresistible dessert. Perfect for holiday celebrations, cookie exchanges, or as a homemade gift, these cookie sandwiches are as fun to make as they are to eat.

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1. Why Make Sugar Cookie Sandwiches?

These cookie sandwiches are a versatile and indulgent treat:

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of soft cookies and creamy filling is pure perfection.
• Festive Appeal: Decorate them with holiday sprinkles or food coloring for a seasonal touch.
• Customizable: Add flavors to the filling or mix-ins for endless variations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, gifting, or enjoying at home.

They bring joy to any holiday table with their rich texture and flavor.

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2. Ingredients Needed

For the Sugar Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour.
• ½ tsp baking powder.
• ¼ tsp salt.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened.
• 1 cup granulated sugar.
• 1 large egg.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract.

For the Buttercream Filling:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened.
• 3 cups powdered sugar.
• 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or other flavoring (e.g., almond, peppermint, or lemon).
• Optional: Food coloring for festive fillings.

Optional Decorations:

• Sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes for the edges.

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3. Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls.
• Electric mixer or whisk.
• Rolling pin and cookie cutters.
• Baking sheets and parchment paper.
• Piping bags or offset spatula for filling.

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4. Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough

• Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps maintain the cookie shapes during baking.

3. Roll and Cut the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use round or festive-shaped cookie cutters to cut out pairs of cookies.

4. Bake the Cookies

• Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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5. Prepare the Buttercream Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and milk, adjusting for desired consistency.
4. Add food coloring if desired, mixing until evenly distributed.

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6. Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread or pipe a generous layer of buttercream onto the bottom side of one cookie.
2. Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich.
3. Roll the edges of the buttercream in sprinkles or crushed candy for added decoration.

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5. Creative Variations

Here are some fun ideas to customize your sugar cookie sandwiches:

1. Peppermint Twist:

• Add crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract to the buttercream for a holiday flavor.

2. Chocolate Buttercream:

• Replace vanilla extract with cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a rich filling.

3. Citrus Burst:

• Mix lemon, orange, or lime zest into the buttercream for a refreshing twist.

4. Festive Colors:

• Tint the buttercream with red, green, or gold food coloring to match the holiday theme.

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6. Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookie Sandwiches

• Chill the Dough: Prevent spreading and ensure consistent cookie shapes by chilling thoroughly.
• Even Rolling: Use rolling pin guides or spacers for evenly thick cookies.
• Cool Completely: Ensure cookies are fully cooled before adding the buttercream to prevent melting.
• Match Sizes: Pair cookies of similar size for a neat, professional appearance.

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7. Serving and Gifting Suggestions

These cookie sandwiches are as beautiful to present as they are to eat:

• Dessert Platters: Arrange with other holiday cookies like thumbprints and gingerbread men.
• Gift Boxes: Pack cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons.
• Hot Beverage Pairing: Serve with hot cocoa, tea, or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Party Favors: Use festive packaging for cookie sandwiches as take-home favors for guests.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling.

2. Can I flavor the cookies as well as the filling?

Absolutely! Add spices like cinnamon or a touch of cocoa powder to the cookie dough.

3. Can I use store-bought cookies?

Yes! If you’re short on time, use store-bought sugar cookies and focus on making homemade buttercream.

4. How do I keep the buttercream from melting?

Ensure the cookies are completely cool before assembling. If the room is warm, refrigerate the assembled cookies briefly to set the buttercream.

5. How do I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

6. Can I freeze cookie sandwiches?

Yes! Freeze in a single layer before stacking in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

7. Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! Kids can cut out shapes, spread filling, and roll edges in sprinkles.

8. Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

9. How do I make vegan cookie sandwiches?

Substitute vegan butter and plant-based milk in both the cookies and buttercream.

10. Can I add texture to the filling?

Yes! Mix in finely chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes for extra crunch.