Ingredients
Scale
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Chocolate Filling:
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough should be smooth but not sticky. - Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two portions and shape them into logs. Wrap in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Shape the Cookies:
Using a piping bag with a round tip, pipe the dough into 2-inch ovals on the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread during baking. - Bake:
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Chocolate Filling:
Melt the chopped chocolate and heavy cream in a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the filling to cool slightly until it thickens but is still spreadable. - Assemble the Cookies:
Pair cookies of similar size. Spread or pipe the chocolate filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Place another cookie on top, flat side down, and gently press to spread the filling to the edges. - Serve or Store:
Enjoy immediately, or store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes
Homemade Milano cookies bring the perfect balance of buttery crispness and creamy chocolate filling. Use high-quality ingredients for the best results, especially butter and chocolate. For a unique twist, try experimenting with different fillings like lemon curd, espresso ganache, or spiced pumpkin cream.