Name: Sandwich Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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, 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

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Sandwich Sugar Cookies are the perfect pastel treat when you want something colorful, soft, and irresistibly sweet. These tender cookies sandwich a creamy vanilla filling that creates a bakery-style dessert right in your own kitchen. With soft cracked tops and dreamy pastel shades, they look beautiful on spring dessert tables, baby showers, Easter gatherings, or birthday parties. Even better, they taste just as good as they look. If you love vanilla filled cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe delivers a balanced sweetness and a smooth, fluffy center every single time.

Story

I first made Sandwich Sugar Cookies for a spring brunch when I wanted something brighter than traditional soft frosted sugar cookies. While classic sugar cookies always win, I wanted color, texture, and a creamy center that felt extra special. So instead of spreading frosting on top, I paired two pastel cookies together with a rich vanilla filling.

Because these Sandwich Sugar Cookies bake up tender with slightly cracked tops, they hold the filling beautifully without becoming overly sweet. Plus, they look stunning arranged on a glass platter, especially when you mix pink, yellow, green, purple, and blue. They quickly became my go-to pastel spring cookies for holidays and celebrations. Even better, they double as easy dessert sandwiches that both kids and adults love.

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, 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together for about two minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. The dough will feel thick but soft. Add the milk and mix just until incorporated. Divide the dough evenly into five portions, then knead gel food coloring into each portion to create soft pastel shades.

Cooking Instructions

Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place the dough balls two inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges set and the tops develop slight cracks without browning. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the filling, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust consistency as needed. Once the cookies cool completely, pair similar sizes together. Spread or pipe filling onto the flat side of one cookie, top with another cookie, and gently press to spread the filling evenly. Let the assembled cookies sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

First, avoid overbaking. Because Sandwich Sugar Cookies should remain soft, pull them out when the edges set but before they brown. Also, do not skip parchment paper since it prevents excessive browning on the bottoms. Additionally, avoid using liquid food coloring because it can thin the dough and affect texture.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper vanilla flavor, use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation. You can also add a tiny drop of almond extract to the filling for subtle complexity. If the dough becomes too soft while shaping, chill it for 15–20 minutes to keep the cookies thick and tender.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Sandwich Sugar Cookies slightly softened at room temperature for the best texture. Arrange them by color for an eye-catching dessert tray. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or milk and make excellent additions to spring dessert spreads.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for up to one week. If chilled, allow them to sit at room temperature before serving so the filling softens properly.

Conclusion

These Sandwich Sugar Cookies combine soft pastel sugar cookies with a smooth vanilla center for a bakery-style treat you can easily make at home. They look festive, taste rich without feeling heavy, and stay wonderfully tender for days. Whether you bake them for a celebration or simply for fun, they always impress.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Sandwich Sugar Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without filling for up to two months. Thaw completely before assembling with fresh vanilla filling for the best texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temperature briefly before coloring and shaping.

Can I use different fillings?

Yes. While vanilla works beautifully, you can substitute cream cheese frosting, chocolate buttercream, or even fruit-flavored frosting for variety.