The inspiration for these sandwich cookies strikes when I think of the rich tapestry of flavors found in traditional spiced chai. With a blend of chocolate and cardamom, these cookies capture the essence of comfort and warmth, yet they surprise the palate with an unexpected twist. The spiced ganache filling is silky smooth and offers a delightful contrast to the crispness of the cookies. Let’s embark on this sweet journey together!
Ingredients
– For the Cookies:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the Spiced Ganache:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
To make the cookies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies come off easily.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom. This fragrant blend will be the base of your cookies.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft yet manageable.
Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a fork to create a nice round shape.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are set but still soft in the middle. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
While your cookies are cooling, prepare the spiced ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove it from the heat and add the dark chocolate chips, stirring until they are completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and vanilla extract. Allow the ganache to cool at room temperature until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Once the cookies are completely cool, pair them up by size. Spread a generous amount of the spiced ganache on the flat side of one cookie and top it with the matching cookie, pressing down gently to create a sandwich.
These Chocolate-Cardamom Sandwich Cookies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee, allowing the flavors to intertwine beautifully. Each bite is a delightful surprise, with the warm spices dancing alongside the rich chocolate.
Enjoy the artistry of these cookies, and let each delicious moment remind you of the joy found in experimenting with flavors!