Shelly's Recipe

CHOCOLATE STAR SANDWICH COOKIES

Category: Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
4 (1-ounce) squares bittersweet chocolate, elted and cooled slightly
3 (1-ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar, for garnish

Chocolate Ganache:
3 (1-ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

In large bowl, beat butter and sugars at medium speed with a mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add melted chocolates, beating until mixture is combined.

In medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture, beating until combined.

Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 3 days. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 2 1/2- or 3-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut 36 stars from dough. Using a 1-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut 36 stars from dough, rerolling scraps if necessary. Place on prepared baking sheets and bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Let cool on pans for 2 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon Chocolate Ganache on top of large stars. Top each with 1 small star. Let stand for 30 minutes or until ganache is firm. Garnish cookies with powdered sugar, if desired. Store in airtight containers.

Chocolate Ganache: In a small saucepan, combine chocolate and cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Use ganache immediately.

Makes about 3 dozen.