Caramel Filled Cookies
These cookies blend crisp cocoa shortcrust pastry with velvety caramelized milk filling, perfect for any dessert occasion.
Instructions
- 1
Using an electric mixer, beat the soft butter with the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla for about 2 minutes until the mixture is soft and frothy. Add the egg and continue beating until a smooth, velvety cream forms.
2 min
- 2
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder, then incorporate them into the mixture all at once, beating with the mixer until a soft, malleable dough forms.
- 3
To shape the cookies, you can use a cookie press or a piping bag fitted with a 1 cm tip. On a lightly greased baking sheet, create heart-shaped cookies by joining two strips of dough and gently pressing the tip to define the shape.
- 4
Bake the cookies in a preheated static oven at 180°C (160°C fan oven) for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
12 min
- 5
Meanwhile, prepare the dulce de leche: in a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and vanilla. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reduces, thickens, and takes on a deep amber color, forming a spreadable cream that drips slowly from a spoon (about 50 minutes total).
50 min
- 6
Let the dulce de leche cool to room temperature in a bowl or jar.
- 7
When the cookies and filling are cooled, fill the flat side of half the cookies with a teaspoon of dulce de leche, then top with another cookie. Finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes on the filling that protrudes.
- 8
Arrange the finished cookies in a box or on a serving tray.
Ago's Notes
- Precision in beating the butter and in cooking the dulce de leche is essential to achieve the right consistency and a perfect balance between crispness and creaminess.
- Serve these cookies at room temperature to fully enjoy their complex flavors and contrasting textures.
This simple yet elegant recipe demonstrates the beauty of carefully balanced flavors and textures, showcasing a delightful contrast to traditional Italian desserts. The softness of the dough paired with the rich caramel creates an irresistible experience, making each bite a moment of pure indulgence.
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