Vanilice (Vanilla Sandwich Cookies)

Delicate sandwich cookies filled with apricot jam and dusted with powdered sugar, popular in Serbia and Croatia.

Ingredients (Makes ~24 cookies)

For the cookies:

• 200 g butter, softened

• 100 g sugar

• 1 egg yolk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 300 g all-purpose flour

• 50 g cornstarch

• Pinch of salt

For the filling:

• 100 g jam (apricot, raspberry, or plum)

For topping:

• Powdered sugar

Preparation

1. Make the dough:

   • Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Add egg yolk and vanilla extract.

   • Gradually mix in flour, cornstarch, and salt until a smooth dough forms.

2. Shape the cookies:

   • Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

   • Roll dough into small balls (about 2–3 cm in diameter).

   • Flatten slightly and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Bake:

   • Bake 12–15 minutes until lightly golden on the edges.

   • Cool completely before filling.

4. Assemble:

   • Spread a small amount of jam on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with another.

5. Finish:

   • Dust generously with powdered sugar.

Cooking Tips

• Chill dough briefly before shaping for easier handling.

• Don’t overbake; cookies should remain pale and tender.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with tea or coffee for a classic Balkan treat.

• Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days; the jam softens the cookies slightly, enhancing flavor.