Introduction
Clothespin Cookies are a nostalgic bake that instantly brings to mind handwritten recipe cards and time-honored family traditions. I first came across these cookies while exploring classic home-style desserts, and their distinctive shape immediately caught my attention. Beyond their appearance, what truly makes them special is the combination of a soft, lightly sweet dough wrapped around a rich, nutty filling. They feel old-fashioned in the best possible way, yet they remain just as enjoyable today as they were decades ago. I appreciate how these cookies invite a slower, more mindful baking process, from shaping the dough to carefully filling and forming each piece. They are perfect for holiday trays, afternoon coffee breaks, or simply when you want to bake something that feels meaningful and homemade. Clothespin Cookies are not flashy, but they are deeply satisfying, offering comfort, flavor, and a sense of tradition in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies combine a tender dough with a rich, spiced filling that feels indulgent without being overly sweet. They hold their shape well, store beautifully, and make an elegant addition to cookie platters. Their unique look also makes them a conversation starter.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Flour forms the structure of the cookie dough, giving it enough strength to hold the filling while remaining tender.
Butter
Butter adds richness and creates a soft, delicate texture in the dough when baked.
Egg yolks
Egg yolks contribute tenderness and help bind the dough without making it tough.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and helps bring the dough together smoothly.
Sugar
Sugar lightly sweetens the dough, allowing the filling to shine without overpowering it.
Baking powder
Baking powder provides gentle lift, preventing the cookies from becoming dense.
Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Chopped nuts
Nuts such as walnuts or pecans form the base of the filling, adding texture and depth.
Brown sugar
Brown sugar brings warmth and moisture to the filling, complementing the nuts beautifully.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds subtle spice and enhances the classic character of the cookies.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds aromatic sweetness.
Milk for filling
Milk helps bind the filling ingredients into a spreadable consistency.
Directions
Begin by preparing the dough. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light. Add the egg yolks and mix until smooth, then stir in the milk. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and chill the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
While the dough chills, prepare the filling by combining chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and milk in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is thick and cohesive.
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the chilled dough thinly on a lightly floured surface and cut into small rectangles. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each piece and fold the dough over lengthwise, sealing gently. Arrange the cookies seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool before serving so the filling can set properly.
Equipment needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 30 to 36 cookies, depending on size. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes of baking time per batch.
Storage/reheating
Store Clothespin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. They also freeze well for up to two months. Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Clothespin Cookies lend themselves well to subtle variations. You can experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to change the flavor profile. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the filling creates a warmer spice note.
For a slightly sweeter version, dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar. You can also enrich the filling with a small amount of finely grated citrus zest for brightness. These adjustments keep the traditional spirit of the cookie intact while allowing personal touches that suit your taste.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
These cookies are rich and satisfying, best enjoyed in moderation. They provide energy from nuts and carbohydrates and are well suited as an occasional treat rather than an everyday snack.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Chill the dough
Chilling makes rolling and shaping much easier.
Roll evenly
Uniform thickness ensures even baking.
Do not overfill
Too much filling can cause leaks during baking.
Cool before storing
Cooling fully prevents condensation and preserves texture.
FAQs
Why are they called clothespin cookies?
Their folded shape resembles a traditional wooden clothespin.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, they store well and can be baked a day or two in advance.
What nuts work best?
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Substitutions are possible, but texture may change.
Do I need special molds?
No, the shape is formed by hand.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap it well and freeze for up to one month.
Why is my dough cracking?
It may be too cold or rolled too thin.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, slightly, especially in the filling.
Are these cookies very sweet?
They are balanced, with more richness than sweetness.
What occasions suit these cookies?
They are ideal for holidays, gatherings, and gifting.
Conclusion
Clothespin Cookies are a wonderful example of how traditional baking can still feel relevant and rewarding. With their tender dough, nutty filling, and distinctive shape, they offer both flavor and nostalgia. Whether you are revisiting a family classic or discovering them for the first time, these cookies are a satisfying and memorable bake.
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