π Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 50g custard powder (like Birdβs Custard Powder)
- 100g unsalted butter (softened)
- 80g powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2β3 tbsp milk
For the filling:
- 100g unsalted butter (softened)
- 150g powdered sugar
- 1β2 tbsp custard powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
π₯£ Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light, fluffy, and pale (about 3β5 minutes).
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Sift in flour and custard powder together to avoid lumps.
- Mix gently until a soft dough forms.
- If dough feels dry, add milk 1 tbsp at a time until smooth but not sticky.
π Tip: Dough should be soft enough to roll but not cling to your hands.
π Step 2: Chill the Dough (Important!)
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the fridge for 20β30 minutes.
π This prevents spreading and helps keep the cookie shape neat.
πͺ Step 3: Roll & Shape
- Lightly flour your surface.
- Roll dough to about 5mm thickness.
- Cut into:
- Ovals (classic style)
- Rectangles
- Circles
π Optional: Use a fork or stamp to create patterns on top.
π₯ Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 170Β°C (340Β°F).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Place cookies with slight spacing.
- Bake for 12β15 minutes.
β Cookies should be:
- Pale in color
- Slightly golden at edges
π Do NOT overbake β custard creams should stay light.
βοΈ Step 5: Cool Completely
- Let cookies rest on tray for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a rack and cool fully.
π Warm cookies will melt the filling β patience matters here!
π§ Step 6: Make the Filling
- Beat butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add powdered sugar gradually.
- Mix in custard powder and vanilla extract.
- Beat until light, fluffy, and spreadable.
π If too thick: add 1 tsp milk
π If too soft: chill briefly
π₯ͺ Step 7: Assemble
- Spread or pipe filling onto one cookie.
- Place another cookie on top.
- Press gently to sandwich.
π Donβt overfill β a thin layer tastes best.
β¨ Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use room temperature butter (not melted).
- Always sift dry ingredients for smooth dough.
- Chill dough to avoid spreading.
- Bake in the middle rack for even cooking.
- Store in an airtight container for best texture.
β FAQs
1. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
- Dough wasnβt chilled
- Butter too soft/melted
β Fix: Chill dough before baking
2. Can I make them without custard powder?
- Not recommended β custard powder gives:
- Flavor
- Color
- Texture
π Substitute (if needed): cornstarch + vanilla, but taste will differ.
3. Why are my cookies hard?
- Overbaking
β Bake until just lightly golden
4. How long do they stay fresh?
- Airtight container: 5β7 days
- Fridge: up to 10 days
5. Can I freeze them?
β Yes
- Freeze unfilled cookies: up to 2 months
- Add filling after thawing
6. Can I use oil instead of butter?
β Not recommended
- Butter gives flavor + structure
- Oil will change texture completely
7. Why is my filling too runny?
- Butter too soft
β Chill for 10β15 minutes before using
π½οΈ Serving Idea
Serve with:
- Tea β
- Coffee
- Or as a snack for guests
