Classic Homemade Chocolate Sandwich Cookies

1. Cream Butter, Sugar, and Golden Syrup

Start by creaming together the butter, sugar, and golden syrup in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because the air incorporated during this process will help your cookies achieve the perfect texture.

2. Sift Dry Ingredients

While the butter mixture is creaming, sift together the flour and Dutch-process cocoa powder. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and free of lumps, which is essential for a smooth dough.

3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms. Once combined, turn the dough out onto a clean surface, divide it into two portions, and flatten each into a disk. This makes it easier to roll out later.

4. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) so it's ready when your cookies are.

5. Roll Out and Cut Dough

Roll out one of the dough disks on a cocoa-dusted surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Dusting with cocoa instead of flour helps maintain the rich chocolate flavor without altering the texture. Use a cutter to cut out your wafers and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Bake Wafers

Bake the wafers in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until they are firm and dry. This baking time ensures the wafers will be crisp enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy.

7. Prepare Filling

While the wafers are baking and cooling, prepare the filling. Melt the butter in a saucier over low heat, then transfer it to the stand mixer. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

8. Assemble Cookies

Once the wafers have cooled, transfer the filling to a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch tip. Pipe a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of half of the wafers. Top each with another wafer to form sandwiches.

9. Set Cookies

Allow the assembled cookies to set in an airtight container for about 30 minutes. This resting time lets the filling firm up, making the cookies easier to handle and enhancing their overall texture.