Dessert

Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies Recipe

ByHarry Bern November 23, 2025November 23, 2025

Introduction

These Easy Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Sandwich Cookies combine soft, cinnamon-coated cookies with a creamy dulce de leche filling. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet treat any time of day.

A close-up image of a tall stack of sandwich cookies, each with two light golden-brown, round cookies dusted with a grainy cinnamon sugar coating, sandwiching a thick, smooth layer of rich caramel-colored filling that slightly oozes out between the cookie layers. The cookies have a slightly rough texture from the sugar coating, and the caramel filling looks glossy and creamy. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp butter
1 can (13.4 oz) dulce de leche (such as Nestle Dulce de Lechera)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing for another minute until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Gradually stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: While chilling, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl for the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Step 4: Roll the dough into 16 to 24 balls, depending on desired size. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat well, then place on a parchment- or Silpat-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Sprinkle remaining cinnamon-sugar over cookies while warm.
Step 6: Melt 1 tablespoon butter over low heat, then remove from heat and stir in dulce de leche until smooth and combined.
Step 7: When cookies are completely cool, spread dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with another. Repeat with remaining cookies.
Step 8: For best flavor, let the sandwich cookies rest for an hour before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra softness, avoid overbaking the cookies; centers should stay slightly soft.
Use a quality dulce de leche to enhance the richness of the filling.
Try adding a pinch of sea salt to the filling for a salted caramel twist.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Storage

Store the sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week. If refrigerated, allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the sandwiches, wrapped individually, for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a single sandwich cookie held by a woman's hand, focusing on the side view of the treat. The sandwich has two thick, round, golden-brown cookie layers coated with sugar and cinnamon, giving them a slightly rough and grainy texture. Between these cookie layers is a thick, smooth caramel filling, shiny and rich in amber color, with a slightly glossy surface that contrasts with the matte cookie layers. The background is softly blurred with neutral colors, and the surface beneath is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for better texture.

Is dulce de leche the same as caramel?

Dulce de leche is similar to caramel but is made by slowly heating sweetened milk, creating a creamy, caramelized spread. It has a deeper, milkier flavor compared to traditional caramel made from sugar and butter.