Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies

Name: Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole frozen strawberries; 1 tablespoon water; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup white sugar; 3 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup multicolored candy sprinkles; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon milk; 1/8 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 ounces full fat cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup strawberry reduction; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon salt

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

Strawberry Reduction: 1 cup frozen whole strawberries, 1 tablespoon water, 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Cookie Dough: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1/2 cup white sugar, 3 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar, 1 large egg yolk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup multicolored candy sprinkles
Vanilla Dough: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Chocolate Dough: 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon milk, 1/8 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
Strawberry-Cream Cheese Frosting: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup strawberry reduction, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Step 1: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine frozen strawberries and 1 tablespoon water. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the strawberries soften. Use a potato masher to mash the strawberries thoroughly. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reduces to about 1/4 cup, about 5 to 7 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: To make the cookie dough, beat the softened butter, white sugar, brown sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract with an electric mixer until well combined. Add salt and 1 cup of flour, and mix until just incorporated. Add the remaining 1 cup of flour and mix until just combined. Stir in the sprinkles.

Step 3: Divide the dough evenly between two bowls. In one half, add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and mix until combined, kneading by hand if necessary. In the second half, add cocoa powder, milk, and optional espresso powder, and mix until incorporated, kneading by hand if needed.

Step 4: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the vanilla dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Press the dough scraps together, re-roll, and cut out more cookies until all dough is used. Place the cookies on a platter and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat the process with the chocolate dough.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Arrange the chilled cookie dough on the sheets, leaving 1/2 inch between each cookie. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: To make the frosting, beat 1/2 cup butter in a bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the cream cheese and continue beating until smooth, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup strawberry reduction, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix to prevent separation. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off. If the frosting is too thin, refrigerate it for a few minutes or add more powdered sugar to thicken it.

Step 7: To assemble the sandwich cookies, flip the vanilla cookies upside down. Pipe a generous amount of frosting onto each cookie, then top each with a chocolate cookie. Gently press the two cookies together to form a sandwich. Store the completed sandwich cookies in an airtight in the fridge.

Cook's Note: Due to the cream cheese in the frosting, these cookies should be stored in the fridge. For the best flavor, allow the cookies to return to room temperature before serving. The yield of cookies may vary depending on the thickness of the dough and the size of the cookie cutter.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 165
Total Fat: 12g (15% DV)
Saturated Fat: 7g (33% DV)
Cholesterol: 41mg (14% DV)
Sodium: 60mg (3% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 14g (5% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
Total Sugars: 6g
Protein: 2g (3% DV)
Vitamin C: 3mg (3% DV)
Calcium: 12mg (1% DV)
Iron: 1mg (4% DV)
Potassium: 33mg (1% DV)

Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in one delicious bite. These colorful cookies are filled with a smooth strawberry-cream cheese frosting and feature a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Their playful design, enhanced with vibrant sprinkles, makes them a popular choice for parties, holidays, and special occasions. But these cookies are more than just a treat for the eyes and taste buds; they also come with an interesting story, regional connections, and several unique characteristics that make them stand out among similar desserts.

Origin of the Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies

The concept of combining strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate flavors is inspired by the famous Neapolitan ice cream, which dates back to the late 19th century. The ice cream itself is named after the city of Naples in Italy, known for its vibrant food culture. However, while Neapolitan ice cream gained popularity worldwide, the specific combination of these flavors in cookie form evolved much later, especially in the United States during the late 20th century. The addition of colorful sprinkles (funfetti) further emphasizes the playful and festive nature of these cookies, making them a fun dessert to bake for any occasion.

Regional Characteristics

Although the Neapolitan flavor profile is commonly associated with Italy due to Neapolitan ice cream, the funfetti version of these cookies has its roots in American baking traditions. The funfetti trend itself emerged in the 1980s, when rainbow sprinkles became a popular decoration for cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. This specific cookie recipe takes inspiration from both American and Italian dessert traditions, blending rich chocolate and vanilla shortbread with a smooth strawberry cream filling, resulting in a treat that can be found in kitchens across the world.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

What sets Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies apart from other sandwich cookies is the combination of not only the classic Neapolitan flavors but also the inclusion of vibrant funfetti sprinkles. The cookies themselves are a bit softer than typical shortbread, providing a slightly chewy texture that contrasts with the smooth cream cheese frosting. While there are other popular sandwich cookies, like Oreo or macaroon, these cookies have a much lighter, airier feel thanks to the strawberry cream cheese frosting and the funfetti sprinkles, making them an ideal choice for a fun and visually appealing treat.

Where Are Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies Typically Served?

Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies are often served at celebrations, making them perfect for birthdays, holiday parties, and bake sales. Their vibrant colors and playful design also make them a popular choice for kids' parties. Whether presented on a dessert table or as part of a cookie platter, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any event. The combination of sweet and tangy strawberry frosting with the rich vanilla and chocolate cookies offers a versatile flavor profile that appeals to guests of all ages.

Fun Facts about Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies

Funfetti sprinkles were first popularized by Pillsbury in the 1980s, and they have since become a staple in fun, festive desserts.
The concept of Neapolitan flavorsstrawberry, vanilla, and chocolatehas been around since the late 1800s, but the funfetti twist is a modern take on the classic trio.
The colorful nature of the sprinkles in the cookies makes them an Instagram-worthy treat, often shared on social media to show off vibrant, homemade desserts.
Because of the cream cheese in the frosting, these cookies need to be refrigerated, but they are best served at room temperature for maximum flavor and texture.

In conclusion, Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies are a fun and delicious way to bring the beloved flavors of Neapolitan ice cream into the world of cookies. With their playful colors, perfect balance of flavors, and versatility for any occasion, they are sure to be a hit wherever they're served!

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FAQ about Neapolitan Funfetti Sandwich Cookies

The sandwich cookies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese in the frosting. For the best flavor, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. After dividing and rolling out the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.

Yes, both the cookies and the cookie dough can be frozen. To freeze the cookies, bake and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To freeze the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone cheese or a store-bought frosting that has a similar consistency. Keep in mind, though, that the flavor will be different.

Yes, you can use any type of sprinkles you prefer. However, keep in mind that large, chunky sprinkles may affect the texture of the cookies.

Roll the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and hold their shape well when assembling the sandwich cookies.

While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute. Keep in mind that the taste and texture of the cookies may differ slightly.

Yes, it is important to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding a few drops of almond extract, a bit of vanilla bean paste, or even a dash of strawberry extract for extra flavor in the frosting.

If the frosting seems too runny, add additional powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until it thickens. You can also chill the frosting in the fridge for several minutes to help it set up.