Berger Cookies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature preferred)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon imitation vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cups cake flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup salted butter (softened)
• 6 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 2/3 cup natural cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons imitation vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

3. 3

   Add the large egg, milk, and imitation vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Set aside.

4. 4

   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.

6. 6

   Scoop the dough by level tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

7. 7

   Dampen your fingertips and gently flatten each cookie.

8. 8

   Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown. Let the cookies cool while preparing the frosting.

9. 9

   For the frosting, combine salted butter and corn syrup in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer until creamy.

10. 10

    Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until fully combined.

11. 11

    Stir in both cocoa powders until well mixed.

12. 12

    While mixing on low speed, drizzle in heavy cream and imitation vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and combined.

13. 13

    Prepare a double boiler and melt the frosting gently until darkened in color and smooth, stirring frequently.

14. 14

    Flip the cooled cookies upside down and scoop 1½ tablespoons of frosting onto each cookie. Spread the frosting with the back of a spoon or offset spatula, letting it spill over the edges.

15. 15

    Allow the frosting to firm up before enjoying.