There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of cinnamon and caramel-like sweetness, and that’s exactly what you get with Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies. These cookies bring together soft, buttery layers with a warm cinnamon coating and a rich, creamy dulce de leche filling that feels both indulgent and homey at the same time.
If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s simple to make but tastes like it came from a bakery, this recipe hits that sweet spot. The cookies themselves are lightly crisp on the outside with a soft, tender interior, while the filling adds a smooth, velvety richness that ties everything together. Each bite feels balanced—sweet, spiced, and just a little bit nostalgic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the first things you’ll notice about these Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies is how perfectly they balance flavor and texture. The cookies have a soft, buttery base with just enough structure to hold the filling, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds a gentle crunch and a warm, spiced aroma.
The filling is another standout feature. Dulce de leche has a deep, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating. It’s rich but not overpowering, creating a smooth contrast to the lightly crisp edges of the cookies.
These cookies are also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for holidays, afternoon snacks, or even as a homemade gift. Their sandwich style makes them feel a little more special than regular cookies, and they’re always a hit when shared.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar (for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter (for filling)
- 1 can (13.4 oz) dulce de leche
Each ingredient plays an important role. The butter gives the cookies their rich flavor and soft texture, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds warmth and a slight crunch. The dulce de leche filling is the star, bringing everything together with its creamy sweetness.
Let’s Get Started
Making these cookies is simple and enjoyable, even if you’re new to baking.
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix the dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Prepare cinnamon sugar
In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup sugar with ground cinnamon.
7. Shape and coat
Roll the dough into small balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
8. Bake
Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
9. Prepare filling
Mix dulce de leche with 1 tablespoon butter until smooth and spreadable.
10. Assemble cookies
Spread the filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another to form a sandwich.
Servings and Pairing
This recipe makes about 12–15 sandwich cookies, depending on size.
For pairing, consider:
- Coffee or latte for a cozy combination
- Hot chocolate for extra sweetness
- Milk for a classic pairing
- Chai tea to complement the cinnamon flavor
These pairings enhance the warm, comforting nature of the cookies.
Variations
You can easily customize these cookies to suit your taste:
- Add chocolate drizzle for extra richness
- Use salted caramel instead of dulce de leche
- Make mini sandwiches for bite-sized treats
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper spice flavor
Small changes can create new flavor experiences while keeping the base recipe intact.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Refrigerate: Keeps for up to 1 week
- Freeze: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months
Let cookies come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The butter may have been too soft—chill the dough slightly if needed.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?
You can, but it adds a key layer of flavor.
How do I keep the filling from oozing out?
Use a moderate amount and press gently when assembling.
Final Thoughts
Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With their soft texture, warm cinnamon coating, and rich caramel filling, they offer a dessert experience that feels both comforting and special.
Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just want something sweet to enjoy at home, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. Once you try them, they’re likely to become a favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft cinnamon sugar cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche for a simple yet rich homemade dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sugar (for rolling)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter (for filling)
- 1 can (13.4 oz) dulce de leche
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla; mix well.
- Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt, then add to wet mixture.
- Mix until dough forms.
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Roll dough into balls and coat in cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes; cool completely.
- Mix dulce de leche with butter until smooth.
- Sandwich cookies with filling.
Notes
- Chill dough if it becomes too soft.
- Don’t overbake to keep cookies tender.
- Use a piping bag for neat filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes