Clothespin Cookies are a delightful and nostalgic treat, known for their unique shape, which resembles the clothespins used in the past to hang laundry. These cookies consist of a light, flaky pastry wrapped around a cylindrical mold, usually made of metal or wood, and then filled with a sweet, creamy filling. They are often dusted with powdered sugar, adding to their delicate charm.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup ground nuts or flavored extracts for variety
Preparation:
Making the Pastry:
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and flour, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 2:
Add the sour cream to the flour and butter mixture and mix until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable.
Step 3:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.
Shaping the Cookies:
Step 4:
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thickness.
Step 5:
Cut the dough into strips approximately ½ inch wide and 4-6 inches long.
Step 6:
Wrap each strip of dough around a clothespin mold or a similar cylindrical form, overlapping the edges slightly to ensure they hold together.
Step 7:
Place the wrapped molds on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden.
Preparing the Filling:
Step 8:
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 9:
If desired, add ground nuts or an additional flavored extract to the filling for extra flavor.
Assembling the Cookies:
Step 10:
Once the cookies have cooled, carefully remove them from the molds.
Step 11:
Fill a pastry bag with the cream filling and pipe it into each cookie shell.
COOKING Note:
Ensure the cookies are completely cool before filling, as warm cookies can cause the cream to melt.
Serving Suggestions:
Dust the filled Clothespin Cookies with powdered sugar for a classic finish and serve them as a delightful accompaniment to tea or coffee.
Tips:
- Ensure the dough is chilled thoroughly to make it easier to handle.
- The cookies can be made in advance and stored without filling in an airtight container. Fill them with cream just before serving to maintain their crispness.
Prep Time:
- 30 minutes (plus 1 hour for chilling)
Cooking Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 1 hour 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 per cookie (depending on size and filling)
- Protein: About 2g per cookie
- Sodium: Approximately 20mg per cookie
Clothespin Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the crispness of flaky pastry with the smoothness of sweet cream filling. Their elegant appearance and delicious taste make them a favorite for special occasions, holidays, or simply as a cherished homemade treat.
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