Delicate, buttery sandwich cookies filled with silky vanilla cream
Parisian Cream Wafers are the kind of old-world cookie that tastes like it came straight from a French pâtisserie. Crisp, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth wafers hug a sweet cloud of vanilla frosting—creating a cookie that feels light, elegant, and absolutely irresistible. These dainty sandwich cookies look fancy, but they come together with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for holidays, special gatherings, or just treating yourself to something refined, this recipe will make you feel like you’re baking in a tiny Paris bakery.
Why You’ll Love Parisian Cream Wafers
These cookies are known for their soft crunch and airy texture. The dough is enriched with butter and cream, giving each wafer a tender, pastry-like bite. Then there’s the filling—sweet vanilla frosting that’s creamy, dreamy, and perfect for piping or spreading. You can tint the frosting any color you like for baby showers, weddings, birthdays, or holiday cookie boxes.
They’re beautiful, delicious, and surprisingly easy. A perfect treat for anyone who loves classic, elegant desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Wafers
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for dipping)
For the Vanilla Cream Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
- Food coloring, optional
How to Make Parisian Cream Wafers
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the sides until it becomes pale, light, and fluffy. With the mixer on low, slowly add the flour, then pour in the heavy cream. Mix just until the dough forms.
Gather the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This makes the dough easier to roll and helps the cookies keep their shape.
2. Shape the Wafers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Place granulated sugar in a small bowl. On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to a 1/8-inch thickness. Use a small round cookie cutter—or even the rim of a small cup—to cut out the wafers.
Press the tops of each dough circle into the sugar and transfer them to the baking sheets. Use a fork to gently prick the surface of each cookie to help them bake evenly.
3. Bake and Cool
Bake the wafers for 7–9 minutes, removing them before they begin to brown. They should stay pale and delicate. Place them on a cooling rack and let them cool completely.
Make the Cream Filling
In a clean bowl, beat the butter and salt for 3 to 5 minutes, until smooth, fluffy, and completely lump-free. Slowly add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Add the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting becomes thick yet spreadable. If you want colorful wafers, divide the frosting and tint each portion with your chosen food coloring.
Assemble the Wafers
Spread or pipe frosting onto the bottom side of one cookie. Gently sandwich a second cookie on top, creating a delicate little cream-filled treat. Repeat until all wafers are assembled.
These cookies taste even better after a few hours as the cream softens the inside of the wafer, giving them that signature Parisian texture.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Refrigerate for longer freshness (up to a week).
- Freeze the assembled cookies for up to 2 months—thaw before serving.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! The dough can stay in the fridge for up to 48 hours, or be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I make flavored fillings?
Absolutely. Try almond extract, strawberry flavoring, raspberry jam, or citrus zest for a fun twist.
How do I make them extra fancy?
Pipe the frosting instead of spreading, and tint each batch a different pastel color for a French-bakery look.
Final Thoughts
Parisian Cream Wafers are a charming cookie that bring elegance to any dessert table. With their buttery bite and silky cream filling, they’re perfect for tea parties, holidays, or simply treating yourself to something beautiful. They look impressive, taste incredible, and make every moment feel a little more Parisian.
