Crisp, buttery pastry wrapped around a delicate mold and filled with a rich, creamy custard—this is the magic of clothespin cookies. These classic treats, often enjoyed during holidays and celebrations, are a staple in many European and American households. Their light, flaky texture combined with a sweet filling makes them an irresistible dessert that melts in your mouth.

Dating back to traditional European baking, clothespin cookies have been passed down through generations. Originally, bakers wrapped dough around wooden clothespins to create the hollow shape, which was later filled with luscious cream. Today, metal dowels or pastry molds are commonly used, but the result remains just as delicious.

For those who love pastry-based desserts, these cookies are reminiscent of other delicacies like cream horns and cannoli, offering a satisfying crunch with a smooth, velvety center. If you’re fascinated by different pastry techniques, you might also enjoy learning about various styles of pastry and their influence on baked goods like these cookies.

Beyond their irresistible flavor, these cookies are also highly customizable. You can tweak the filling, experiment with flavored dough, or even add a touch of chocolate. If you’re looking for more creative holiday baking ideas, Pinterest has an extensive collection of holiday cookies to inspire your next batch!

Ingredients Breakdown

A perfectly balanced clothespin cookie depends on the right combination of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in achieving the cookie’s light, flaky texture and creamy filling. Let’s break down the essential components.

Pastry Dough: The Foundation of Flakiness

The pastry shell is the backbone of the cookie. Achieving the right consistency is crucial for shaping and baking. Here’s what each ingredient contributes:

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and ensures the cookies hold their shape.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flakiness to the dough. Softened butter makes it easier to mix evenly. Learn more about how butter affects baking in this guide on butter.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and contributes to a delicate crisp texture.
Egg Yolk – Helps bind the dough while adding richness. Egg yolks are essential in many pastries; check out their role in baking here.
Sour Cream – A surprising but essential ingredient that adds moisture, ensuring a tender, flaky pastry.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making the pastry more aromatic.
Salt – A tiny pinch balances out the sweetness and enriches the dough’s flavor.

Filling: The Heart of the Cookie

The creamy filling is what makes clothespin cookies stand out. It should be smooth, thick, and rich. Each ingredient plays an important role:

Whole Milk – Forms the base of the custard-like filling, providing a creamy consistency.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling while helping to thicken the mixture.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickener, ensuring the filling holds its shape inside the pastry shell.
Egg Yolk – Adds creaminess and helps stabilize the filling.
Vanilla Extract – Brings a warm, aromatic depth of flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Gives the filling a silky texture when blended in after cooking.

To perfect your custard-based fillings, check out this informative guide on custard and its variations.

Dusting: The Finishing Touch

No clothespin cookie is complete without a dusting of powdered sugar. This light, airy sweetness adds an elegant touch while complementing the pastry’s texture. Powdered sugar is a common finishing ingredient in many desserts; if you’d like to explore its uses, check out powdered sugar.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some fun variations:

For a more indulgent filling – Swap vanilla extract for almond or rum extract.
Healthier alternative – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dough.
Dairy-free option – Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond milk instead of whole milk.
Flavor twist – Add citrus zest or cinnamon to the dough for extra depth.

If you love experimenting with desserts, Pinterest has plenty of ideas for tea party desserts that pair beautifully

Making the Perfect Dough

A great clothespin cookie starts with a tender, flaky pastry that’s easy to roll, shape, and bake to perfection. Achieving the right texture requires attention to detail, from mixing the ingredients properly to chilling the dough at the right temperature.

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

The key to a light and delicate pastry is handling the dough with care. Here’s how to do it:

Combine Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar.
Incorporate the Butter – Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures a tender texture by evenly distributing fat throughout the dough.
Add the Wet Ingredients – Mix in the egg yolk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the dough starts to come together. If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water.
Knead Lightly – Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead just until smooth. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to toughness.

For a deeper understanding of how butter and egg yolks contribute to pastry textures, check out this helpful resource on pastry.

Step 2: Chilling for the Right Texture

Once the dough is mixed, chilling is essential for:

Allowing the gluten to relax, preventing shrinkage during baking.
Making the dough easier to roll and shape.
Enhancing the final texture for a crisp but tender bite.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. If you’re short on time, placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes can speed up the process.

Step 3: Rolling and Cutting the Dough

After chilling, the dough is ready to be shaped into its signature clothespin cookie form:

Lightly Flour the Surface – Prevents sticking and makes rolling easier.
Roll to the Right Thickness – Aim for about ⅛ inch thickness. If the dough is too thick, the cookies will be too dense.
Cut into Strips – Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to create ½-inch wide and 4-inch long strips. Keeping the strips uniform ensures even baking.

At this stage, your dough is ready to be wrapped around clothespin molds or wooden dowels for baking. If you love trying different pastry techniques, you might also enjoy browsing creative ideas for baking tips & tricks to enhance your skills.

Shaping & Baking the Cookies

Once the dough is prepared and cut into uniform strips, the next step is to carefully shape and bake the cookies to achieve their signature hollow structure. Proper shaping ensures a crisp, delicate shell that holds the creamy filling perfectly.

Step 1: Wrapping the Dough Around Molds

The hollow shape of clothespin cookies is achieved by wrapping thin strips of dough around a cylindrical mold. Follow these steps for the best results:

Prepare the Molds – Lightly grease metal clothespin molds or wooden dowels with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Wrap the Dough – Take a strip of dough and gently wrap it around the mold, slightly overlapping each layer. Avoid stretching the dough too much, as this can cause cracking during baking.
Seal the Ends – Lightly press the end of the dough to ensure it stays in place while baking.

If you don’t have clothespin molds, you can use alternatives like aluminum foil tubes or cannoli molds. For more creative kitchen hacks, check out DIY baking ideas on Pinterest.

Step 2: Baking to Golden Perfection

Achieving the perfect crisp texture requires precise baking. Follow these tips:

Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet – Place the wrapped molds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
Bake Until Lightly Golden – Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Watch closely to prevent overbaking.
Cool Before Removing – Allow cookies to cool for about 5 minutes before carefully sliding them off the molds. Use a gentle twisting motion to avoid breakage.

For more insights on how baking temperature affects pastry textures, explore the science behind baking techniques

Preparing the Creamy Filling

The filling is what makes clothespin cookies truly irresistible. It should be smooth, rich, and thick enough to hold its shape inside the hollow shells. This section will guide you through creating the perfect custard-based filling with a velvety texture.

Step 1: Cooking the Custard Base

A properly thickened custard ensures a creamy and stable filling. Follow these steps for the best results:

Heat the Milk – In a small saucepan, warm 1 cup of whole milk over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Temper the Egg Yolk – In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg yolk. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the warm milk while whisking constantly. This prevents the yolk from scrambling.
Combine & Thicken – Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture and dry ingredients into the saucepan with the milk, stirring constantly. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency. This should take 3-5 minutes.

If your custard becomes lumpy, whisk it vigorously or strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. For a deeper understanding of how custards work in desserts, check out this guide on custard.

Step 2: Cooling & Incorporating Butter

Remove from Heat – Once thickened, take the custard off the stove and stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor.
Cool Completely – Let the custard sit at room temperature until fully cooled. Placing it in the refrigerator speeds up the process.
Beat in Butter – Once cooled, beat ½ cup of softened butter into the custard using a hand mixer. This step creates a silky, smooth texture that pipes easily into the cookies.

For more creative filling ideas, check out dessert plating inspiration to elevate your presentation.

Assembling & Finishing Touches

With the pastry shells baked to perfection and the creamy filling prepared, it’s time to assemble your clothespin cookies. Proper filling techniques ensure a smooth, even texture, while the final dusting of powdered sugar gives them an elegant look.

Step 1: Filling the Cookie Shells

To achieve a professional presentation, follow these steps:

Prepare a Piping Bag – Transfer the cooled custard filling into a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top bag with a small hole cut in the corner works just as well.
Pipe the Filling – Insert the piping tip into one end of the cookie shell and gently squeeze until the filling reaches the opposite end. Avoid overfilling, as it may spill out.
Even Distribution – For a consistent look, rotate the cookie slightly while piping to ensure the filling spreads evenly inside.

If you prefer an alternative method, you can use a small spoon to fill the cookies, but piping ensures a cleaner finish. For more expert baking techniques, check out baking tips & tricks to refine your skills.

Step 2: Adding the Final Touch

Dust with Powdered Sugar – Using a fine sieve, lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar. This enhances both the presentation and flavor. Learn more about why powdered sugar is used in desserts here.
Serve Fresh – Clothespin cookies taste best when served fresh, as the pastry retains its crispness while the filling remains creamy.
Store Properly – To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, store the shells and filling separately for the best texture.

For elegant plating ideas, browse dessert plating inspiration to make your cookies look as good as they taste!

Variations & Flavor Twists

One of the best things about clothespin cookies is their versatility. While the classic version features a vanilla custard filling, you can easily experiment with different flavors, fillings, and dough variations to create a unique twist on this beloved treat.

Alternative Fillings

If you want to customize your cookies, try these delicious filling variations:

Chocolate Cream – Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a rich chocolate version.
Fruit Preserves – Instead of custard, fill the cookies with raspberry, apricot, or strawberry jam for a fruity burst.
Mascarpone or Cream Cheese Filling – Blend ½ cup of mascarpone or cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla for a tangy, creamy alternative.
Nutella or Hazelnut Spread – A quick and easy way to add a chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

For more filling inspiration, check out holiday cookies to see how others experiment with different flavors.

Dough Variations

Want to take your clothespin cookies to the next level? Try these exciting dough modifications:

Citrus Zest – Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Almond Extract – Substitute ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty, aromatic flavor.
Cinnamon Spice – Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced variation.

Decorating Ideas

Beyond the traditional powdered sugar dusting, here are some creative ways to decorate your cookies:

Drizzle with Chocolate – Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for an elegant touch.
Add Sprinkles – Festive sprinkles make these cookies perfect for special occasions.
Roll in Crushed Nuts – Coat the ends in crushed pistachios, almonds, or pecans for extra crunch.

For more beautiful cookie presentation ideas, explore dessert plating inspiration and elevate your baking game!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Clothespin cookies are a delightful treat that can be served on various occasions, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea parties. Their light, flaky texture and creamy filling pair well with a variety of beverages and other desserts.

Best Occasions to Serve Clothespin Cookies

These cookies are perfect for:

Holiday Celebrations – A staple at Christmas, Easter, and wedding receptions.
Tea Parties & Brunches – Their delicate texture makes them an excellent companion to light refreshments.
Dessert Tables – They add an elegant touch to buffet-style dessert spreads.

For more creative ideas on how to style desserts for events, check out tea party desserts to create a stunning presentation.

Beverages That Complement Clothespin Cookies

Pairing the right drink enhances the flavor of these cookies. Here are some excellent choices:

Tea – Delicate flavors like chamomile, earl grey, or green tea balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Coffee – A rich espresso or cappuccino pairs beautifully with the buttery pastry and creamy filling.
Dessert Wine – Sweet wines like Moscato or Port bring out the flavors of the vanilla custard.

If you’re interested in pairing other baked goods with tea or coffee, you might enjoy learning more about pastry and how it complements different beverages.

Plating & Presentation Tips

Make your clothespin cookies look as beautiful as they taste:

Arrange on a Tiered Dessert Stand – A great way to serve them for tea parties or special occasions.
Dust with Extra Powdered Sugar – Just before serving, add another light dusting for a snowy, elegant effect.
Serve with Fresh Berries or Mint Leaves – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate.

For more elegant plating inspiration, explore dessert plating ideas to elevate your presentation skills!

FAQs

When making clothespin cookies, a few common questions often arise. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these answers will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly flaky and delicious every time.

Can I Make Clothespin Cookies Ahead of Time?

Yes! Clothespin cookies can be made in advance, but proper storage is key:

Unfilled shells – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Filled cookies – Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. If stored too long, the filling may soften the pastry.
Freezing – Freeze the baked shells for up to 2 months and fill them when ready to serve.

What Can I Use Instead of Clothespin Molds?

If you don’t have traditional clothespin molds, here are some DIY alternatives:

Wooden dowels – Cut into 4-inch pieces and lightly greased.
Cannoli molds – Provide a similar hollow shape.
Aluminum foil tubes – Roll small cylinders of foil for a disposable option.

For more creative baking hacks, check out baking tips & tricks to find easy solutions for any kitchen challenge.

How Do I Prevent the Dough from Breaking While Shaping?

If your dough is cracking or breaking while wrapping around the molds, try these fixes:

Let the dough warm up slightly – If too cold, it may be less flexible.
Roll the dough evenly – A consistent thickness of ⅛ inch prevents weak spots.
Knead lightly before rolling – This makes the dough more elastic and easier to shape.

Why Is My Filling Too Runny or Too Thick?

A perfect custard should be smooth and creamy, but sometimes issues arise:

Too runny? – Cook a bit longer until it thickens, or refrigerate to firm it up.
Too thick? – Add a teaspoon of warm milk and whisk until smooth.

For a better understanding of custard textures, explore the science behind custard to improve your technique.

Can I Make a Gluten-Free Version?

Yes! To make gluten-free clothespin cookies:

Use a gluten-free flour blend – Choose one designed for baking and pastries.
Check your thickening agent – Some gluten-free flours absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the filling consistency.

Clothespin Cookies

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Clothespin cookies are delicate, flaky pastries wrapped around a cylindrical mold and filled with a rich, creamy custard. These elegant treats are a staple at holiday gatherings, weddings, and tea parties, offering a perfect balance of crisp pastry and smooth filling. Traditionally made using wooden clothespins or metal dowels, these cookies can be customized with various fillings, from classic vanilla custard to chocolate cream, fruit preserves, or mascarpone. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic family recipe or try a new baking challenge, clothespin cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
½ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 cup whole milk
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 egg yolk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, softened

For dusting:

Powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, mix the flour, softened butter, sugar, egg yolk, sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Lightly flour a surface and roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Cut into strips approximately ½ inch wide and 4 inches long.

Wrap each strip around a lightly greased metal clothespin mold or wooden dowel, overlapping slightly. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly before carefully sliding off the molds.

To make the filling, heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and egg yolk. Slowly pour the warm milk into the mixture while whisking. Return to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely.

Beat the softened butter into the cooled filling until smooth.

Pipe the filling into each hollow cookie shell using a piping bag or a small spoon.

Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Dough Tips: Ensure the dough is properly chilled before rolling to maintain its flaky texture and prevent sticking.
Shaping Tip: Don’t stretch the dough too tightly around the mold—it should be wrapped lightly to prevent cracking.
Filling Consistency: The custard should be completely cooled before adding butter to achieve a silky smooth texture.
Storage: Store unfilled shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for 2 months. Once filled, refrigerate and consume within 3 days for the best texture.
Customization Ideas: Experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate ganache, fruit curd, or Nutella. Add citrus zest or almond extract to the dough for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with coffee, tea, or dessert wine for an elevated treat.