Name: Clothespin Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup shortening; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1/2 cup cold water; Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup shortening; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The magic of Clothespin Cookies is impossible to resist: delicately crisp pastry cylinders, each stuffed with a fluffy, sweet vanilla filling, and finished with a sprinkle of sugar. These cookies combine everything we love about homemade treats—flaky dough, creamy filling, and nostalgic flair. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply indulging in a bite of something truly special. With a few classic ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll master a cookie that’s both elegant and delightful!

Clothespin Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Clothespin Cookies is that their ingredient list is simple yet essential—nothing fancy, just wholesome staples that add up to a showstopping cookie. Each ingredient has a purpose, helping to create that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, golden exterior, and irresistibly creamy filling.

All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of the dough, giving the cookies their tender, flaky structure.
Salt: Just a touch brings all the flavors together and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter (for dough and filling): Butter is key to achieving that rich taste and perfect flakiness in both the shell and the luscious filling.
Shortening (for dough and filling): Adds extra tenderness and helps the cookies hold their shape with a light bite.
Granulated sugar (for dough and sprinkling): Lends subtle sweetness to the dough and a signature crunchy sugar finish after baking.
Large egg yolk: An egg yolk enriches the dough, adding lovely color and just the right amount of chew.
Cold water: Keeps the dough light and manageable, helping everything come together just so.
Powdered sugar: The main event in the filling, contributing to that cloudlike smoothness and sweetness.
Marshmallow fluff: Makes the filling wonderfully airy and slightly stretchy—totally irresistible.
Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla transforms the filling from ordinary to unforgettable.
Milk: Just a splash or two ensures the filling is perfectly pipeable and creamy.

How to Make Clothespin Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Start with the basics: in a medium bowl, whisk together your flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, shortening, and granulated sugar until everything is light and fluffy—a good five-minute mix will make all the difference here. Next, add in that golden egg yolk and mix until everything is fully combined, setting the stage for a silky, cohesive dough.

Step 2: Combine and Chill

Gradually add your flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the cold water. Mixing in turns helps the dough come together smoothly and prevents it from getting tough. When your dough is soft and uniform, divide it in half, wrap both pieces tightly in plastic, and pop them in the fridge. Chilling for at least an hour will make the dough much easier to handle—and guarantee those perfect layers in your finished Clothespin Cookies.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your metal clothespins or dowels. Give them a good greasing (or a wrap in foil) so the cookies slip off easily after baking. Roll out one portion of dough at a time on a lightly floured surface, aiming for that thin, 1/8-inch thickness. Use a ruler (or good old-fashioned eyeballing) to cut the dough into 1½-inch by 4-inch strips. Carefully wrap each strip around your prepared clothespin, overlapping slightly and pressing the ends to seal. Place seam side down on an ungreased baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping a close eye—you’re looking for a light golden color, not deep browning. Let them rest for a few minutes out of the oven, then gently slide them off the clothespins or dowels. Let the shells cool completely before you take the next delicious step.

Step 5: Prepare the Fluffy Filling

While the shells cool, it’s time to whip up that dreamy filling. Beat together the unsalted butter and shortening until creamy. Add the powdered sugar and give it another whirl until fluffy. Then fold in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract. Finally, splash in enough milk (start with one tablespoon, adding more if needed) to get a silky-smooth consistency that’s easy to pipe but firm enough to hold shape.

Step 6: Fill and Finish

Once your shells are cool, use a pastry bag fitted with a star or round tip to pipe the filling into each cookie. Work from both ends to make sure every single bite is filled with that perfect marshmallowy cream. Finish by sprinkling the tops with a dusting of granulated (or powdered) sugar, and voilà—your very own batch of Clothespin Cookies is ready to share (or not)!

How to Serve Clothespin Cookies

Garnishes

A classic finish is a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, which gives these cookies their old-fashioned charm. For a touch of sparkle, try a light sprinkle of granulated sugar before serving—it’s subtle, pretty, and adds a hint of crunch. If you want to take them up a notch, add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a few edible glitter flakes for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Clothespin Cookies are delightful on their own, but they make a stunning companion to a cup of strong coffee, hot chocolate, or a pot of herbal tea. For a full dessert spread, pair them with a bowl of fresh berries, fruit salad, or even some tangy lemon bars to balance the richness of the filling. Their light, airy texture complements just about anything creamy or fruity.

Creative Ways to Present

When you really want to wow, arrange your Clothespin Cookies in a spiral on a vibrant cake stand or tuck them upright in a tall glass jar for a vintage look. Tie them in little bundles with bakers’ twine for a sweet homemade gift, or nestle each cookie into a mini cupcake liner for a polished presentation at parties or bake sales. The more whimsical your display, the more these cookies stand out!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Clothespin Cookies tasting bakery-fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their delightful texture and flavor for up to four days—the filling stays creamy, and the shells maintain just the right bite. If stacking, place parchment or waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can absolutely make these cookies ahead of time! Freeze unfilled cookie shells for up to three months in a well-sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the shells at room temperature, whip up the filling, and assemble. For best results, avoid freezing the filled cookies, as the creamy center can get a little soggy after thawing.

Reheating

No need to reheat Clothespin Cookies, but if the shells have lost a little crispness after storage, you can pop the unfilled shells in a 300°F oven for 2 to 3 minutes to refresh them. Let them cool, then fill as usual. The filling itself is best served cool or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make Clothespin Cookies without metal clothespins?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have metal clothespins, clean wooden dowels or even thick, rolled-up foil tubes make great substitutes. Just be sure to grease or line them well so the cookies can slide off easily after baking.

Can I use store-bought marshmallow crème instead of marshmallow fluff?

Absolutely! Store-bought marshmallow crème works well and gives the filling that same fluffy texture. If you have a favorite brand, go for it—the results will still be delicious.

Why is my dough sticky or difficult to handle?

If the dough feels too sticky, it may need a bit more chilling time. Chilling firms up the fats, making the dough easier to roll and shape. Lightly dusting your work surface and rolling pin with flour can also help manage stickiness without toughening the dough.

Can I flavor the filling differently?

Definitely! While vanilla is classic, feel free to mix things up by adding a touch of almond extract, lemon zest, or even a dash of cocoa powder for a twist. Just make sure any extra flavorings won’t make the filling too runny.

Are Clothespin Cookies suitable for making ahead of a party?

Yes—these are the ultimate make-ahead cookie! The unfilled shells keep beautifully in the freezer, and you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Fill and garnish them the morning of your event for maximum freshness and wow-factor.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Clothespin Cookies have been cherished for generations—they’re a true celebration of homemade goodness, sharing, and a little bit of kitchen magic. Give them a try and let the crispy shells and dreamy filling win over your friends, your family, and (most importantly) yourself!

Clothespin Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Clothespin Cookies are classic filled cookies that resemble miniature cream horns. These delightful treats feature a tender cookie shell wrapped around a sweet, creamy filling, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1/2 cup cold water
Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling

Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup shortening
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk, as needed

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cookies: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, shortening, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and mix well. Gradually add flour mixture, alternating with cold water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease metal clothespins or dowels (or wrap them in foil if needed). Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 1½-inch by 4-inch strips. Wrap each strip around a greased clothespin, overlapping slightly and pressing ends to seal. Place seam side down on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before carefully removing from clothespins. Cool completely before filling.
Filling: Beat butter and shortening until creamy. Add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Beat in marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pipeable consistency. Pipe filling into cooled shells using a pastry bag.