Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with the tartness of raspberry jam. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or simply an afternoon snack. The chewy brownie-like texture and luscious ganache filling make them irresistible, ensuring they will be the star of your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and raspberry creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Perfectly Chewy: These cookies have a rich, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Treat: Great for special occasions or everyday indulgence, these cookies can be enjoyed any time.
• Impressive Presentation: With their beautiful sandwich design and glossy ganache filling, they are sure to impress your guests.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough and ganache ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with baking these delicious Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Heatproof bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the dough quick and easy, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined without much effort.
• Baking sheets: Using lined baking sheets helps prevent sticking and allows for even baking of your cookies.
• Cookie scoop: A scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon instant espresso powder
• 4 oz good quality bittersweet chocolate (60-70%) (finely chopped)
• ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Ganache Filling

• 4 oz good quality chocolate (finely chopped) (mix of 35% milk and 76% bittersweet chocolate)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup raspberry jam

How to Make Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder. Set aside.
2. Gently melt the bittersweet chocolate using a double boiler or microwave until just melted. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

1. In a stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, combine butter and sugars. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until lightened.
2. Reduce speed to low; add eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
3. Mix in vanilla extract followed by lukewarm melted chocolate until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just incorporated.

Step 3: Chill Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap directly on its surface.
2. Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes until firm enough to work with.

Step 4: Bake Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Use a small cookie scoop (about 20g or 1 tablespoon) to portion out rounds of dough onto the prepared sheets. Flatten them slightly into pucks for even spreading.
3. Bake for about 8 minutes or until tops are puffed but no longer shiny.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

1. Remove from oven; use a round cookie cutter around each soft cookie to perfect their shape.
2. Allow cooling on sheets for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make Ganache Filling

1. Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl; warm cream in a saucepan until it bubbles around edges without boiling.
2. Pour hot cream over chocolate; let sit for 30 seconds before whisking until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble Sandwich Cookies

1. Pair up cooled cookies by size; flip half upside down on a baking sheet.
2. Pipe ganache onto flat undersides; fill centers with raspberry jam before placing another cookie on top gently.

Step 8: Store Cookies

Refrigerate until set before serving or storing in an airtight container where they’ll last up to one week. Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with tart raspberry jam makes them an irresistible treat. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

For a Festive Gathering

• Serve on a tiered stand – Arrange the cookies on a decorative tiered stand for an elegant display during parties or special events.
• Pair with fresh berries – Surround the cookies with fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a vibrant touch and enhance the berry flavor.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy with espresso – The bold flavors of espresso complement the sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
• Serve alongside herbal tea – A soothing herbal tea offers a nice contrast to the richness of chocolate, creating a balanced snack time.

Dessert Platter Addition

• Include cheese and crackers – Add a selection of cheeses and crackers on your dessert platter for a sweet and savory combination that guests will love.
• Garnish with mint leaves – Fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing note when served alongside these cookies, enhancing their presentation.

How to Perfect Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

To ensure your Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly chill the dough – Chilling the cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Boldly use quality chocolate – Opt for high-quality chocolate for both the cookie dough and ganache; this enhances flavor significantly.
• Boldly measure ingredients accurately – Use kitchen scales for precise measurements, ensuring consistency in texture and taste.
• Boldly rotate baking sheets – Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets for even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.
• Boldly let ganache cool properly – Allowing ganache to cool until thickened ensures it holds its shape when piped into the cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

To create a well-rounded dessert experience, pair your Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies with these delightful side dishes.

1. Bold vanilla ice cream – Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate flavor, adding a cool contrast.
2. Bold whipped cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped beside the cookies for added indulgence.
3. Bold fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad provides brightness and complements the flavors of raspberry beautifully.
4. Bold dark chocolate truffles – Rich dark chocolate truffles enhance the dessert table with their luxurious texture and taste.
5. Bold mixed nuts – A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft sandwich cookies.
6. Bold coffee-flavored desserts – Coffee-flavored treats like tiramisu or mocha mousse enhance the overall chocolate experience while offering variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Boldly neglecting measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting the ganache cool properly is essential for the right texture. Rushing this step can lead to a runny filling.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them chewy and tender.
• Ignoring cookie spacing: Not leaving enough space between cookies on the baking sheet can cause them to merge. Ensure there’s at least 2-3 inches apart.
• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs and butter are key for a uniform batter. Take them out beforehand for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

• Freeze individual cookies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just allow them to thaw before serving.

Reheating Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies.

Can I use different fruit preserves?

You can absolutely substitute raspberry jam with other flavors like strawberry or blueberry, depending on your preference.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should look puffed and slightly cracked on top but still soft. They will firm up as they cool down.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, ensuring it has binding properties.

What if my ganache is too thick?

If your ganache becomes too thick, gently reheat it over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave until it’s pliable again.

Are Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make delightful gifts, especially when packaged nicely in a box or jar.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Raspberry Sandwich Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different jams or adjust the chocolate types used. Try this recipe out and enjoy an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion!