Introduction
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that brings you back to your childhood. These Cream-Filled Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies offer that nostalgic charm, combining the wholesome goodness of oats with a rich cream cheese filling. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only delicious but also satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress!
Overview of the Recipe
When you make these cookies, you can expect a delightful balance of textures – a slightly crisp exterior with a chewy center, complemented by a creamy, sweet filling. The combination of oats and cinnamon makes them uniquely flavorful, while the cream filling offers a hint of tanginess that contrasts perfectly. This recipe is straightforward and ideal for bakers of all levels, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish.
History and Origin
Sandwich cookies have been a beloved treat across various cultures, often serving as a canvas for creativity with fillings ranging from creams to jams. Oatmeal cookies, in particular, have their roots in classic American baking, dating back to the 19th century when oats became more widely used in desserts. This Cream-Filled Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies recipe takes inspiration from these traditions, melding the classic oatmeal cookie with a delightful cream filling to create a modern twist on a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream filling:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons milk (or as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Form the Cookies: Take about 2 tablespoons of dough and form them into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare Cream Filling: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream filling by mixing together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
8. Assemble Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of the cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie, pressing gently to form a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies.
9. Serve: Serve the cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These Cream-Filled Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies go wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk, making them perfect for an afternoon snack session. They are also ideal for dessert at family gatherings, birthday parties, or picnic outings.
Variations of the Recipe
– Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
– Vegan Alternative: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
– Flavor Twists: Add chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for additional flavor and texture.
Health Benefits and Notes
Oats are packed with fiber, making these cookies a more nutritious choice than many traditional desserts. The addition of cream cheese provides a good dose of calcium as well. You can make them healthier by reducing the sugar content and using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled cookies, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then sealed in an airtight container. Just thaw before serving.
2. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture.
3. How can I make the filling thicker?
Add more powdered sugar gradually until you achieve your desired consistency for the filling.
Conclusion
These Cream-Filled Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the nostalgic flavors of oatmeal cookies with a modern creamy twist. This recipe is not only simple but also so satisfying that you’ll want to keep coming back for more. Enjoy experimenting with variations and share your creations with family and friends – they’ll surely love them!