Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings both charm and sweetness to any occasion, the Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe is an absolute must-try. These soft, buttery cookies rolled in sparkling colored sugar, then lovingly filled with creamy frosting, come together in a way that feels both festive and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday, or just to brighten your day, these cookie sandwiches boast a tender crumb and a creamy center that will quickly become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these pastel sugar cookie sandwiches just right starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that inviting sugary sparkle.

• All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups): The sturdy base that gives these cookies their tender yet slightly chewy texture.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, soft bite.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): Adds richness and keeps the cookies melt-in-your-mouth soft.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the dough and works with the colored sugar for that beautiful outer sparkle.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and depth of flavor.
• Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, nutty aroma that makes these sugar cookies extra special.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Softens the dough just enough to make rolling a breeze.
• Colored sugar (1/2 cup): For rolling the dough balls, giving the cookies their enchanting pastel shimmer.
• Frosting (1 batch): Your choice of store-bought or homemade, to sandwich between the cookies, creating the perfect creamy filling.

How to Make Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep those cookies from sticking. It’s a small step that makes cleanup much easier and helps keep your cookies perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, setting the stage for cookies that rise evenly and taste balanced.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial—it traps air in the batter, giving your cookies their soft and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined. The almond extract adds a subtle, distinctive note that elevates these pastel sugar cookie sandwiches beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough cookies, so take it slow and steady.

Step 6: Add Milk and Adjust Dough Texture

Stir the milk into the dough until smooth. The consistency should be soft but not sticky—this balance makes rolling the dough into balls a joyous, mess-free experience.

Step 7: Roll Dough Balls and Coat with Colored Sugar

Pour the colored sugar into a shallow bowl. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball fully in the colored sugar so they glisten with festive pastel hues, giving them that signature sparkle.

Step 8: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Gently press each ball down with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to form discs. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are just turning golden but the centers remain soft. This ensures every bite is tender and full of buttery flavor.

Step 9: Cool and Assemble the Sandwiches

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before moving them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, generously spread frosting on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another. Press together lightly so the frosting fills the gap without spilling over.

Step 10: Serve or Store Your Treats

You’re all set! Enjoy your freshly made pastel sugar cookie sandwiches right away, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.

How to Serve Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe

Garnishes

While the colored sugar already provides a lovely pastel touch, you can elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of tiny edible pearls or pastel sprinkles on the frosting edges. These little accents add an extra dimension of whimsy perfect for celebrations or just to brighten snack time.

Side Dishes

Pastel sugar cookie sandwiches pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of rich hot cocoa, or even tea infused with delicate floral notes like chamomile or lavender. These accompaniments emphasize the cookies’ sweet, buttery charm and make any snack moment feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your pastel sugar cookie sandwiches on a pretty tiered dessert stand to showcase their pastel colors and inviting shapes. For an added touch, line the serving plate with delicate edible flowers or colorful doilies. Wrapping individual sandwiches in parchment tied with pastel ribbon also makes for adorable edible gifts perfect for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After making your pastel sugar cookie sandwiches, keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy them whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Freezing

If you want to make them ahead in bulk, the cookies themselves freeze beautifully. Freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add fresh frosting for best results. Sandwiches with frosting do not freeze as well due to texture changes in the filling.

Reheating

Warm leftover cookies slightly in a low oven (about 300°F for 3-4 minutes) to bring back that just-baked softness before frosting and assembling the sandwiches. Avoid microwaving once frosted, as the filling could melt and become runny.

FAQs

Can I use different colored sugars for rolling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various pastel shades or even mix colors for a delightful multicolored sparkle. It’s a fun way to customize the look of your cookie sandwiches.

What type of frosting works best for these cookie sandwiches?

Buttercream frosting is a classic choice due to its creamy texture and sweetness. However, cream cheese frosting or even flavored ganache can add unique twists depending on what you love.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check for a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture, so your pastel sugar cookie sandwiches remain tender and cohesive.

Is almond extract necessary?

While not absolutely required, almond extract lends a lovely, subtle nutty flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully and elevates the overall taste. If you don’t have it, feel free to omit or replace with an additional ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.

How can I make the cookies extra soft?

Make sure not to overbake. Removing the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges turn lightly golden—and letting the centers stay soft—ensures they remain tender. Adding the frosting sandwich also adds moisture and richness between the cookies.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about baking and sharing the Pastel Sugar Cookie Sandwiches Recipe. Their pastel shimmer, tender crumb, and creamy filling make them perfect for celebrations or everyday sweet moments. Give these cookie sandwiches a try—you might just find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again to sprinkle a little sweetness into your day!

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