2cupsall-purpose flourUse cake flour for a lighter texture!
½teaspoonbaking sodaHelps the cookies rise and maintain softness.
½teaspoonsaltEnhances the sweetness of the cookies.
1cupunsalted butter, softenedEnsure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
¾cupgranulated sugarYou can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
¼cuppowdered sugarAdds a touch of sweetness without being overpowering.
1largeeggBinds everything together for a cohesive texture.
1teaspoonvanilla extractInfuses depth of flavor into the cookies.
Zest of 1clementineBoosts the clementine flavor and adds brightness!
For the Cream Filling
½cupunsalted butter, softenedEnsure it's softened for easy blending.
8ozcream cheese, softenedOffers a tangy flavor that complements the sweet cookies.
3cupspowdered sugarSweetens and stabilizes the filling for a smooth consistency.
2tablespoonsclementine juiceAdds citrusy tang; lemon juice can be a substitute!
Additionalclementine zestFor an aromatic garnish and extra flair.
Instructions
Baking the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and to perfection.
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
Cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar in a separate mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and zest of a clementine to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Filling
Beat the softened butter and cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and clementine juice until you achieve a light, fluffy cream filling.
Spread a generous dollop of the cream filling onto the bottom of one cookie and top it with another to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are filled.
Garnish with extra clementine zest before serving.
Notes
Store filled cookies at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months.