Lace Sandwich Cookies, or Laceys, are a delicate treat that combines crisp, golden edges with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. These cookies are a perfect balance of buttery richness and subtle sweetness, with a hint of caramelized flavor that lingers on your palate. Ready in just over 30 minutes, they’re an ideal choice for impressing guests or indulging in a quick homemade delight. The intricate, lacy texture adds a touch of elegance, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

Pair these airy cookies with a creamy filling for a sandwich-style treat that’s both light and satisfying. The contrast between the crisp layers and smooth center creates a delightful sensory experience. Whether enjoyed with tea or as a sweet finale to a meal, Laceys are sure to become a cherished favorite. Their simplicity and charm make them a joy to bake and share, proving that great things truly come in small packages.

Ingredients for Lace Sandwich Cookies (Laceys)

1 ½ cups (7½oz/213g) almonds (grind to breadcrumb texture)
½ cup (4oz/115g) butter (unsalted preferred)
¾ cup (4½oz/128g) dark brown sugar (light brown sugar can be substituted)
¼ cup (2½oz/71g) honey (maple syrup works as an alternative)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (6oz/170g) finely chopped bittersweet chocolate (semisweet or dark chocolate also work)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Grind the almonds in a food processor until they resemble breadcrumbs (not as fine as flour).
In a small saucepan, heat the butter, brown sugar, and honey over low heat until the butter and sugar are fully melted.
Transfer the butter mixture to a small mixing bowl and stir in the flour, vanilla extract, and ground almonds until well combined.
Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto one of the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 3 inches (7½cm) apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown but not too dark (overbaking will result in a burnt taste).
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately lift the parchment paper with the cookies onto a counter to cool.
While the first batch cools, repeat the process with the remaining dough on the second baking sheet.
After a few minutes, the cookies will have cooled and hardened. Gently lift them off the paper and transfer them to a wire rack.
Once all the cookies are baked and cooled, melt the chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat.
Turn half of the cookies over and brush a thin layer of melted chocolate on them. Sandwich with another lace cookie.
Let the cookies rest until the chocolate is set. Store between layers of parchment in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Creative Chocolate Toppings and Fillings

While bittersweet chocolate is classic, try experimenting with other flavors! Swap in *milk chocolate* for a sweeter touch or *white chocolate* for a creamy contrast. For a twist, add a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped nuts on top before sandwiching the cookies. Feeling adventurous? Add a hint of *orange zest* or a dash of *espresso powder* to the chocolate for a unique flavor boost.

Perfect Pairings for Lace Cookies

These delicate cookies pair beautifully with a cup of *hot tea* or *coffee* for an elegant afternoon treat. For dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of *vanilla ice cream* or a drizzle of *caramel sauce*. They also make a lovely addition to a cookie platter, especially during the holidays!

Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

To keep your lace cookies crisp, store them in an *airtight container* with layers of parchment paper between them. They’ll stay fresh for up to *3 days* at room temperature. If you need to store them longer, freeze the cookies (without chocolate) in a sealed container for up to *1 month*. Thaw at room temperature before adding the chocolate filling.

Time-Saving Tricks for Busy Bakers

To streamline the process, grind the almonds and measure all your ingredients before starting. Use a *small cookie scoop* to portion the dough evenly, ensuring consistent baking times. If you’re short on time, skip the chocolate filling and enjoy the cookies on their own—they’re just as delicious!

Common Questions Answered

Can I use almond flour instead of grinding almonds? Yes, but the texture will be slightly finer. Use *1 ½ cups of almond flour* as a substitute. Why are my cookies spreading too much? Make sure your butter mixture isn’t too warm when adding the flour and almonds. Chilling the dough for *10 minutes* before baking can also help.