Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet raspberry. With a fluffy raspberry buttercream filling nestled between two delightful chocolate shortbread cookies, they are as beautiful as they are delicious. Ideal for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these sandwiches will impress anyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the tartness of fresh raspberries.
• Beautiful Presentation: These cookie sandwiches are visually stunning, making them perfect for gifting or special occasions.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the raspberry buttercream with other flavors if desired!
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16-20 servings, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter
• Saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ensures smooth mixing and creamy textures for both dough and frosting.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking cookies.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for cookie dough, ensuring uniform baking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches:

For the Cookies

• 10 TBSP unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup Truvia® Sweet Complete™ All-Purpose Sweetener
• 1 tsp vanilla
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa powder, sifted
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

For the Raspberry Buttercream

• 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
• 4 TBSP Truvia® Sweet Complete™ All-Purpose Sweetener
• 1-2 TBSP water
• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 ½ cups Truvia® Confectioner’s Sweetener, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2-3 TBSP heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and Truvia® Sweet Complete™ until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the vanilla and salt. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl; then add the egg. Mix until incorporated.
4. Add the sifted cocoa powder and mix on low speed until combined.
5. Gradually add flour, ½ cup at a time until dough forms a ball around the paddle attachment.

Step 2: Chill and Shape Cookies

1. If needed, add a ½ tablespoon of milk to bring the dough together.
2. Transfer dough onto parchment paper; top with another sheet and roll out to ¼–½ inch thick.
3. Slide rolled dough onto a cookie sheet while keeping parchment in place; chill for 60 minutes.
4. Cut out circles using a 2-inch round cookie cutter and transfer them to a parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Step 3: Bake Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees while cookies chill for an additional 15 minutes.
2. Bake cookies for 9–10 minutes until edges are firm and centers are set.
3. Cool on cookie sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make Raspberry Buttercream

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberries, Truvia® Sweet Complete™, and water; stir often until juices release.
2. Strain mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl; let cool at room temperature or refrigerate briefly.
3. Beat butter in a stand mixer until pale; gradually add Truvia® Confectioner’s Sweetener while mixing on low speed.

Step 5: Assemble Cookie Sandwiches

1. Add cooled raspberry puree and salt into buttercream mixture; adjust color with more puree if desired.
2. Pipe a swirl of buttercream onto one cookie’s flat side; top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
3. Refrigerate cookies before serving to allow frosting to set.

Enjoy your homemade Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

These Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or a casual snack, they can be served to enhance their flavor and appeal.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the cookie sandwiches with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries for added color and freshness.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Pair these sandwiches with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is irresistible.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the top adds extra richness and makes for an eye-catching presentation.

With a Cup of Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy moment.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookie sandwiches on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies, fruit tarts, or macarons for variety at gatherings.

How to Perfect Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

Achieving the perfect Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies are both beautiful and delicious.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother cookie dough.
• Sift cocoa powder: Sifting the cocoa powder helps eliminate lumps, ensuring even distribution in the cookie dough for consistent flavor.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps prevent spreading, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies that hold their form during baking.
• Monitor baking time closely: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when edges are firm but centers still look soft for best texture.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before adding frosting to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different extracts or spices, like almond extract or cinnamon, to customize your cookie sandwiches further.

Best Side Dishes for Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

If you want to create a complete dessert experience around your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches, consider serving them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice that pairs beautifully with rich chocolate flavors.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Chocolate Pudding
   Rich and creamy pudding enhances the chocolate experience, making it decadent yet comforting.
4. Whipped Cream
   Light and airy whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each sandwich or served on the side for dipping.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   These elegant treats complement the raspberry flavor while adding an extra touch of elegance to your dessert spread.
6. Espresso or Coffee
   A strong brew balances out sweetness and enhances flavor profiles, making it ideal for pairing with desserts.
7. Cheese Plate
   Include mild cheeses like brie alongside nuts and honey for savory contrast against sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

These dark chocolate raspberry cookie sandwiches can be a delightful treat, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your success. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Neglecting Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always ensure that these ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, especially after adding flour.
• Inaccurate Measuring: Not measuring ingredients correctly can alter the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for the right texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Ignoring Oven Calibration: Ovens can vary in temperature. Always check with an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the assembled cookie sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

• Freeze unassembled cookies separately in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature before assembling with buttercream filling.

Reheating Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes, ensuring they do not dry out.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds; keep an eye on them to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan on low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches special?

Dark chocolate and fresh raspberry flavors create a rich, decadent dessert that is visually appealing and perfect for special occasions.

Can I use frozen raspberries in the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking them down into puree.

How long does it take to prepare Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches?

The total prep time is about 20 minutes, but remember to account for chilling times!

Can I customize the filling of my cookie sandwiches?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruit purees or flavored buttercreams to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for firm edges and set centers. The cookies should not appear wet or shiny when finished baking.

Final Thoughts

These dark chocolate raspberry cookie sandwiches offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout treat. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize the filling or even add nuts or other flavors to make it your own! Enjoy baking these delicious sandwiches!