If you’ve ever dreamed of a cookie that combines delicate crispness with a luscious, creamy filling, you’re going to adore this Clothespin Cookies Recipe. These charming, spiral-shaped cookies are wrapped around rods to create a beautiful, wafer-thin shell, which is then filled with a heavenly vanilla cream that melts in your mouth. The balance of buttery dough and smooth filling makes each bite a nostalgic delight that’s perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or simply indulging yourself. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite timeless treats.

Clothespin Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, classic ingredients come together to create the magic of Clothespin Cookies Recipe. Each one adds its own special element to the cookie’s tender texture, rich flavor, and creamy filling, making the process straightforward and the results truly exceptional.

All-purpose flour: The base of both dough and filling for structure and tenderness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Baking powder: Adds a light lift to the cookie dough.
Unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and a buttery flavor in dough and filling.
Shortening: Ensures a crisp, delicate cookie shell and a smooth filling.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens while contributing to texture.
Large egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture to the dough.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess to both the dough and filling.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor throughout.
Cornstarch: Thickens the filling to the perfect pipeable consistency.
Powdered sugar: For a delicate dusting and extra sweetness when serving.

How to Make Clothespin Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl—this ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning. Then, in a large mixing bowl, beat your softened butter, shortening, and sugar until fluffy and light, creating the perfect base for a tender cookie. Incorporate the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and uniform. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring just enough to form a soft dough without overworking it. Divide the dough in half, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour to make rolling and shaping much easier.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookie Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your clothespin rods or wooden dowels by lightly greasing them to prevent sticking. On a floured surface, roll one portion of chilled dough to a thin 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips measuring about 1 by 4 inches. Wrap each strip tightly around a rod, overlapping slightly to form the signature spiral shape. Place the wrapped dough on baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until they turn a very light golden color. Allow them to cool briefly before carefully sliding the rods out. Repeat this process with the remaining dough, then cool the cookie shells completely before filling.

Step 3: Make the Cream Filling

Combine the flour, cornstarch, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy pudding-like consistency. Let this cool completely before moving forward. Meanwhile, beat the softened butter, shortening, and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the cooled milk mixture and vanilla extract, then beat on high speed until the filling is airy and creamy. Transfer the filling to a piping bag for easy and clean filling of the cookies.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Pipe generous swirls of the creamy filling into each cooled cookie shell, making sure every bite will have that luscious filling. Once all the cookies are filled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that classic, elegant finish. The combination of the crisp, wafer-thin shells with the smooth, decadent cream is simply irresistible.

How to Serve Clothespin Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm and flavor, a light dusting of powdered sugar is perfect, adding both sweetness and a snowy appearance that makes these cookies look even more festive. You might also consider a small drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for texture contrast that highlights the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

Clothespin Cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them ideal for afternoon tea or a cozy gathering. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad on the side complement the richness, providing a fresh and tangy contrast that balances the cookies’ sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Present these beauties on a tiered dessert stand for a stunning centerpiece or arrange them on rustic wooden boards for a charming, homey vibe. You can also package them in small gift boxes lined with parchment paper to share with friends and family—the unique spiral shape wrapped around clothespin rods is sure to impress and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your filled clothespin cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh and creamy for up to five days. This helps maintain the delicate texture of the shells while keeping the filling perfectly chilled.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfilled cookie shells by placing them in a sealed bag or container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw completely, then fill with fresh cream. This is a fantastic way to prepare ahead for holidays or special occasions without sacrificing quality.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best served chilled, reheating is not recommended once they are filled. However, if you want to slightly warm unfilled shells, heat them gently in a low oven for a few minutes before filling, to restore a bit of crispness.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have clothespin rods?

You can substitute wooden dowels, thin metal rods, or even clean pencils wrapped with foil to achieve the same spiral shape. Just make sure to grease them well to prevent sticking and remove carefully after baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is suitable for baking, you can adapt this Clothespin Cookies Recipe. Keep in mind that texture and crispness might vary slightly depending on the blend used.

Is it necessary to use both butter and shortening?

Yes, the combination of butter and shortening gives these cookies a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Butter adds richness and taste, while shortening helps create that delicate crispness that these cookies are known for.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. The filling can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to three days. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick beat before piping it into the cookie shells.

How thin should the dough be rolled out?

Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness for the dough. This thinness is essential for creating the light, crisp shell that easily wraps around the rods without cracking or breaking.

Final Thoughts

Making this Clothespin Cookies Recipe is like inviting a little piece of nostalgia into your kitchen, blending simple ingredients into something truly delightful. They bring elegance and charm to any occasion while being surprisingly approachable to make at home. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience those flaky, buttery cookies filled with smooth cream—the perfect treat to share with your nearest and dearest.