If you are a fan of rich, fragrant desserts that bring together the best of delicate nuts and creamy sweetness, you will absolutely fall in love with the Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe. This delightful treat takes inspiration from the classic baklava but transforms it into a charming sandwich cookie form that is as fun to eat as it is delicious. Imagine buttery, spiced cookie layers with a smooth, sweet cream cheese filling, all finished with a luscious caramel drizzle and crunchy nut garnish. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for a second cookie before the first is even gone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the unique flavor and texture of the Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe. From the warmth of the cinnamon and cardamom to the lusciousness of honey and cream cheese, every component adds its special magic.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough that provides structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while contributing to its golden color when baked.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 cup honey: Introduces natural sweetness and a hint of floral depth inspired by traditional baklava.
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios: Offers a nutty crunch and vibrant green color that brightens up the cookies.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts: Adds earthy flavor and texture, complementing the pistachios perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice notes reminiscent of classic Middle Eastern desserts.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom: Gives a subtle aromatic flair that elevates the cookie’s flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a smooth, tangy filling that binds the cookie sandwiches together.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese filling into a luscious layer.
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling: Adds a rich, buttery finish and beautiful shine on top.
- Additional chopped pistachios and walnuts for garnish: Provides extra texture and visual appeal to the final presentation.
How to Make Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Bake Setup
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures even baking and easy cleanup, setting the stage for perfectly golden cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Adding honey at this stage creates moisture and depth, blending seamlessly into the dough for a tender crumb packed with flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Nuts
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt to evenly distribute the spices. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix for a light texture. Lastly, fold in the chopped pistachios and walnuts, which bring crunch and nutty aroma to every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, about one tablespoon each, then gently flatten them slightly before arranging them on your prepared baking sheet. This method creates an ideal shape and thickness for cookies that will bake evenly into a beautifully crisp edge.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as the edges turn a lovely golden brown, signaling they are ready to be removed. Let them cool completely on a wire rack to ensure the perfect texture before assembling.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. This simple yet luscious filling will complement the spiced cookies with its tangy sweetness and velvety texture, acting as the perfect binder for your sandwich cookies.
Step 7: Assemble and Garnish
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it gently with another cookie. Finish each sandwich with a drizzle of caramel sauce for that heavenly buttery sweetness, and sprinkle additional chopped pistachios and walnuts on top for added crunch and beauty.
How to Serve Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant presentation, accentuate the cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar along with the chopped pistachios and walnuts. Drizzling caramel sauce artfully adds shine and invites a deeper indulgence with every bite.
Side Dishes
Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies shine alongside a rich cup of Turkish coffee or a lightly brewed chai tea, where the spices in the cookies harmonize beautifully with the warm beverages. A scoop of vanilla or cardamom ice cream can also make a decadent pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cookie sandwiches stacked on a beautiful platter lined with wax paper and sprinkled with chopped nuts for a rustic look. Alternatively, present them in small decorative boxes with a drizzle of extra caramel for gift-giving or a party favor that will stand out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After assembling, store your Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is a good option to keep the cream cheese filling fresh without drying out the cookies.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either unassembled (just the baked cookies) or fully assembled. Wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to retain the best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, gently reheat unassembled cookies in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid heating the assembled sandwiches to preserve the fresh cream cheese filling’s integrity.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in the Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While pistachios and walnuts are traditional and add great flavor contrasts, you can substitute or mix in almonds, pecans, or even hazelnuts based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is the cream cheese filling very sweet?
The filling balances tanginess from the cream cheese with the soft sweetness of powdered sugar, making it smooth and light rather than overpowering. You can adjust the sugar amount if you prefer it sweeter or more tart.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How long do the cookies stay fresh after assembling?
Ideally, consume them within 2-3 days for the best texture and freshness. The cream cheese filling is perishable, so keeping them refrigerated will extend their lifespan while maintaining safety.
Is it okay to use store-bought caramel sauce?
Definitely! A good quality store-bought caramel sauce works great and saves prep time, but homemade caramel can take the Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe to the next level if you feel like a little kitchen adventure.
Final Thoughts
This Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe is truly a beautiful fusion of rich, spiced flavors and creamy sweetness that is sure to impress at any occasion or simply satisfy your sweet tooth on an ordinary day. Once you make these, they quickly become one of those cherished favorites you’ll want to bake over and over. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful cookie experience — I promise it will become a new classic in your dessert repertoire.
Print
Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookie sandwiches
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baklava Cream Sandwich Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavors of traditional baklava with a creamy, sweet filling. Featuring a buttery spiced cookie packed with pistachios and walnuts, sandwiched with a smooth cream cheese frosting, and finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and extra nuts, these cookies are an indulgent treat perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Finishing
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
- Additional chopped pistachios and walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the honey and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Afterwards, fold in the chopped pistachios and walnuts to distribute the nuts evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small, even-sized balls and flatten each slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass before placing them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn a golden brown color. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before assembling.
- Prepare Filling and Assemble: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Spread a generous amount of this cream cheese filling on the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it with another cookie.
- Final Touches: Drizzle caramel sauce over each assembled cookie sandwich and garnish with additional chopped pistachios and walnuts for an elegant presentation and extra crunch.
Notes
- Make sure the cookies are completely cool before assembling to prevent the filling from melting.
- You can substitute walnuts or pistachios with other nuts like almonds or pecans if preferred.
- For a stronger honey flavor, use high-quality or flavored honey like orange blossom or wildflower honey.
- Store the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
