Vanilice are classic Serbian cookies known for their delicate texture and sweet vanilla flavor. These small, sandwich-style cookies are made from a buttery dough that is rolled thin and cut into rounds. After baking, the cookies are filled with a layer of jam, often apricot or raspberry, and then dusted with powdered sugar. The name “Vanilice” comes from the vanilla flavor used in the dough, which pairs beautifully with the sweet jam filling. They are a popular treat during holidays and special occasions, cherished for their melt-in-your-mouth quality and rich flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 250g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 100g granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 300g all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 200g apricot or raspberry jam

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

2. Roll and Cut:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
   • Use a round cookie cutter (about 2.5 cm in diameter) to cut out cookies.
   • Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Bake the Cookies:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Assemble the Cookies:

   • Once cooled, spread a small amount of jam on the flat side of one cookie.
   • Top with another cookie, pressing gently to sandwich the jam.
   • Dust the assembled cookies with powdered sugar.

5. Serve:

   • Vanilice are best enjoyed within a few days of baking. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx. 20g):

• Calories: ~90 kcal
• Proteins: ~1g
• Carbs: ~12g
• Fiber: ~0.5g

Nutritional Summary: Vanilice are a delightful treat with moderate calorie content per cookie. They offer a small amount of protein and fiber, largely from the flour and jam. The cookies are high in carbohydrates due to the sugar and flour, making them a sweet indulgence. For a healthier option, consider using less sugar in the filling or choosing a lower-sugar jam.