Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies

If you’re searching for a delightful cookie that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with a tender, buttery texture, look no further than these Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies. These charming treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering, an afternoon tea, or just a sweet snack to brighten your day. The delicate spritz cookies sandwich a luscious cinnamon-spiced filling, creating a bite-sized burst of flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and a spritz cookie press, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies that boast a perfect balance of crispness and softness. No need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. These cookies come together quickly and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love classic butter cookies with a twist, Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies are a must-try. Here’s why:

• Deliciously Spiced: The addition of cinnamon to both the cookie dough and the filling adds a warm, cozy flavor that elevates the standard spritz cookie.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies have a crisp exterior with a tender crumb, making them ideal for sandwiching with creamy filling.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Using a spritz cookie press allows you to create beautifully shaped cookies that look stunning on any cookie platter.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the cinnamon level or swap the filling to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

How To Make Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air to give your cookies a tender texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough forms and no streaks of flour remain. The dough will be soft but manageable.

Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Press

Fill your spritz cookie press with the dough. If you don’t have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheets in your desired shapes. Classic spritz cookie shapes include wreaths, stars, and flowers. Leave about 1 inch between each cookie to allow for slight spreading.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks before assembling.

Step 7: Make the Filling

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter for the filling until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Add heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until the filling is smooth and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Match cookies of similar size and shape. Spread or pipe a generous amount of cinnamon filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press the second cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies.

Expert Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting.
• Don’t Overfill the Cookie Press: Overfilling can cause dough to spill out unevenly, so fill it just enough for smooth pressing.
• Cool Cookies Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before sandwiching to prevent melting the filling.
• Experiment with Pressure: Adjust how hard you press the cookie dough to vary thickness and shape detail.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness and freshness.

Variations and Customizations

• Flavor the Filling: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a more complex spice profile.
• Chocolate Twist: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate cinnamon version, or add melted chocolate to the filling.
• Use Different Extracts: Try almond or orange extract in the filling for a unique flavor.
• Decorate: Dip the cookie edges in melted white or dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or cinnamon sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, place the cookies in a sealed container and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature before serving, which will help the filling soften nicely.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies without a cookie press?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a cookie press, use a piping bag fitted with a large star or round tip to pipe the dough onto the baking sheet. You can also shape the dough by hand into small rounds if you prefer a rustic look.

Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil that is solid at room temperature. For the filling, use a dairy-free butter alternative and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier pressing.

What’s the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your dough is well-chilled before pressing, and avoid adding too much butter. Press the cookies onto parchment-lined sheets with enough space between them, and bake immediately after shaping.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Spritz Sandwich Cookies are a timeless treat that combines the festive warmth of cinnamon with the buttery richness of spritz cookies. Their delicate, decorative shapes and luscious cinnamon filling make them a standout addition to any cookie collection. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet, spiced delight, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you’ll create beautiful, flavorful cookies that everyone will adore. So grab your cookie press, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these irresistible cinnamon-infused delights!