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Funfetti cookie sandwiches combine the best of two dessert worlds: soft, chewy cookies bursting with colorful sprinkles and a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting sandwiched in between. These delightful treats are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to bring a smile to someone’s face. With a playful rainbow sprinkle finish, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. This recipe uses boxed Funfetti cake mix for a quick and foolproof cookie base, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy complement to the sweet cookies, taking these Funfetti sandwich cookies to the next level.
The Chemistry of Funfetti Cookie Sandwiches
The use of Funfetti cake mix in the cookies provides consistent flavor and texture, as the mix already contains all of the dry ingredients: baking powder, sugar, and sprinkles. Shortening is key to maintaining the soft, chewy texture, as it has a higher melting point than butter, helping the cookies hold their shape during baking.
The frosting’s cream cheese and butter base creates a smooth and spreadable consistency. Whipping the frosting at high speed aerates it, giving it a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the dense cookies. Rolling the frosted cookie sandwiches in sprinkles enhances their visual appeal and adds a fun, crunchy finish.
What is in Funfetti Cookie Sandwiches?
Funfetti Cake Mix
The foundation of the cookies, providing flavor, sweetness, and those iconic colorful sprinkles.
Shortening
Being 100% fat, it provides a flakier texture and prevents spreading because it does not melt down in the oven.
Eggs
Adds both a protein (egg whites) and fat (egg yolks). The egg whites help with rising because, when foamed, little air pockets get trapped inside the egg white mixture. The water content in egg whites encourages steam while baking, which helps with gluten formation, resulting in nice and thick treats. Egg yolks have emulsifying properties that bring batters and doughs together and help them from collapsing. Unless otherwise specified, always use large eggs.
Cream cheese
Provides a unique, tangy flavor. When baked it adds moisture to your treat.
Unsalted butter
Often the main ingredient of frosting, it adds structure to your buttercream. It also adds a smooth and velvety texture. Butter melts at body temperature, so it will make your frosting have a melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Powdered Sugar
Is just finely ground granulated sugar. It will absorb moisture in your batter or dough. It dissolves easily, ensuring a smooth texture without grittiness. Because it is so fine, it can melt quickly in the oven and spread cookies out more. Powdered sugar also stabilizes and thickens the frosting, thanks to the small amount of cornstarch it contains.
Vanilla Extract
When using pure vanilla extract, as opposed to imitation flavoring, it will add the deep rich flavor that everybody wants in a treat.
How do you make Funfetti cookie sandwiches?
Cookies
- Make the cookie dough. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 2 boxes of Funfetti cake mix, 1 cup shortening, and 4 eggs. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing. You can also use a large bowl and electric hand mixer instead of a stand mixer.
- Portion and bake the cookies. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the dough onto a prepared cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 9 minutes, or until the edges are set, slightly golden brown, and the centers look slightly puffed. Avoid over-baking to maintain the cookies’ soft texture. let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- Prepare the frosting. In a clean stand mixer bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup softened unsalted butter. Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes, or until smooth and creamy. You can also use a large mixing bowl and electric mixer instead of a stand mixer.
- Add 5 1/2 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase to high speed and whip for 2-3 minutes. The frosting should be light, fluffy, and spreadable.
Assemble
- Spread or pipe a generous layer of frosting onto the flat side of a cookie using a piping bag, an offset spatula, or a butter knife. Place another cookie flat side down on top to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and frosting.
- Roll in sprinkles. Pour 1 cup of rainbow sprinkles into a shallow bowl. Gently roll the edges of each cookie sandwich in the sprinkles, pressing lightly to ensure they stick evenly. This step adds an extra sprinkles, a pop of color, and a delightful crunch.
Tips for Success
- Keep the dough cold. If your kitchen is warm, chill dough for 15 minutes before scooping to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Use softened ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Don’t over-bake. The cookies should remain soft, so remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set.
- Customize your look. Swap rainbow sprinkles for holiday-themed ones to make these cookies festive for any occasion.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Store assembled cookie sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Assemble after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
- Party Treats: These colorful sandwiches are perfect for birthdays, baby showers or holiday parties.
- After-School Snack: Serve with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat.
- Gifting: Package in decorative boxes or clear bags for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
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Why make Funfetti Cookie Sandwiches?
- Quick and Easy: Boxed cake mixes simplifies the recipe, cutting down prep time without sacrificing flavor. Win with these easy homemade cookies.
- Perfect for Celebrations: With their bright colors and creamy filling, these cookies are a hit at parties, bake sales, and more.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The cake mix and shortening ensures cookies that stay tender and moist.
- Fun for all Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the vibrant sprinkles and indulgent frosting.
Funfetti cookie sandwiches are the perfect color, flavor, and fun combination. Whether you’re making them for a special celebration or to brighten up your day, these soft cookies with tangy cream cheese frosting will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to customize and endlessly delicious, this recipe is a keeper for any occasion. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, but the texture will change slightly. Butter will create a richer flavor but may result in cookies that spread more during baking. If using butter, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
Can I make these cookies without Funfetti cake mix?
Absolutely! Substitute with vanilla cake mix and add 1/4 cup of rainbow sprinkles to the dough to mimic the Funfetti effect.
How can I prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?
Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. These create a non-stick surface and ensure even baking.
How do I store these cookie sandwiches?
Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For more extended storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies and assemble them later.
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Funfetti Cookie Sandwiches
Ingredients
Cookie
- 2 boxes Funfetti cake box mix
- 1 cup shortening
- 4 eggs
Frosting
- 8 ounce cream cheese
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 5 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees
- In a standing mixer combine the Funfetti cake, shortening and eggs. Mix until fully combined
- Scoop the cookie dough onto a light metal cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 9 minutes.
- Let the cookies cool for on the tray for 5-10 minutes before removing from the pan to finish cooling
- Frost one cookie with the cream cheese frosting & place another cookie on top
Frosting
- In a standing mixer soften the butter and cream cheese together
- Add the sugar and vanilla and mix until combined
- Once combined, whip the frosting on high for 2 minutes until the frosting until it is lighter in color and texture
Assemble
- Once frosted, roll the sides of the cookie sandwiches in a bowl of rainbow sprinkles. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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