12 Days of Cookies: Marcela Valladolid’s Caramel Cookie Sandwiches

It’s that time again — Food Network’s annual virtual cookie swap is here! The stars of The Kitchen and the chefs in Food Network Kitchen (our bustling test kitchen) have some ideas that are bound to make it into your annual rotation. Stock up on flour and sugar — you’re gonna need 'em.

By: Lauren Piro

Marcela’s pretty shortbread cookies, stacked around a rich caramel, are a take on alfajores filled with Mexican cajeta — a traditional goat’s milk caramel. Can’t find goat’s milk? Whole milk is a decent stand-in.

“I love making these cookies over the holidays because they transport me straight to my childhood,” she says. “My father would travel frequently to Guadalajara and he would always bring back these amazing cookies my aunt would make for me and my siblings. Just thinking of them makes my mouth water. They are a family favorite during the holidays.”

Get the recipe for Marcela’s Caramel Cookie Sandwiches (watch how to make them below), and check out the rest of our All-Star Holiday Cookie Recipes. Then, head over to 12 Days of Cookies for dozens (and dozens!) more ideas for your holiday baking extravaganza.