why make this recipe
Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches are a delightful treat that brings a splash of color and sweetness to any occasion. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a fun baking day at home. The combination of soft sugar cookies and creamy vanilla filling makes them irresistible. Plus, the pastel colors make them visually appealing, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s get started on this fun recipe that will surely brighten your day!
how to make Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
Ingredients:
FOR THE SUGAR COOKIES:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Gel food coloring (pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
FOR THE VANILLA FILLING:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
PREHEAT THE OVEN: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
MAKE THE COOKIE DOUGH: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
COMBINE THE DRY INGREDIENTS: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be thick but soft. Add the milk and mix until everything is well blended.
COLOR THE DOUGH: Divide the dough into five equal portions. Use gel food coloring to tint each portion a different pastel color. Knead the coloring into the dough until the colors are evenly mixed.
SHAPE AND BAKE: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
MAKE THE VANILLA FILLING: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing in the heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust the consistency with more cream or powdered sugar, if needed.
ASSEMBLE THE COOKIE SANDWICHES: Once the cookies have cooled, find pairs of similar sizes. Use a piping bag or a spoon to spread a good amount of filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Place another cookie on top and press gently to spread the filling evenly.
SET BEFORE SERVING: Let the cookie sandwiches sit for about 10 minutes to allow the filling to firm up slightly.
how to serve Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
These cookie sandwiches can be served as a sweet treat for parties, after-school snacks, or dessert. You can display them on a colorful plate for a fun and festive look. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a perfect snack time.
how to store Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
Store the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving again.
tips to make Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft and not browned.
- For vibrant colors, use gel food coloring, as it gives better results than liquid food coloring.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the filling!
variation
You can toggle the flavors of the filling based on your preference. Add cocoa powder for a chocolate filling or mix in some fruity flavors if you’re feeling adventurous!
FAQs
Can I freeze Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie sandwiches! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They will last in the freezer for about a month. Just let them sit at room temperature to thaw before enjoying.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it warm up slightly before rolling it out and baking.
What if I don’t have gel food coloring?
If you don’t have gel food coloring, you can use liquid food coloring, but keep in mind that it may not yield as vibrant colors. Alternatively, you could leave the cookies uncolored or use natural colorings like beet juice or matcha for a different look.
Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful pastel-colored sugar cookie sandwiches filled with creamy vanilla filling, perfect for any festive occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Gel food coloring (pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Pinch of salt (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add the milk and mix until well blended.
- Divide the dough into five equal portions and use gel food coloring to tint each portion a different pastel color.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie, roll it into a ball, and place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the filling, beat the butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy.
- Once cookies have cooled, assemble by spreading filling onto the flat side of one cookie and topping with another cookie.
- Let the assembled sandwiches sit for about 10 minutes to allow the filling to firm up.
Notes
Use softened butter for easy mixing. Don’t overbake the cookies to ensure they remain soft.