Half Moon Cookies
Half Moon cookies, also known as Black and Whites or simply “Half Moons,” are a classic treat with a distinct design. These round, cake-like cookies have one flat side that’s frosted with both chocolate and vanilla frosting, creating a two-tone “half moon” appearance.
Servings 4 people
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Electric Mixer
- 1 Sifter optional
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Parchment Paper optional
- 1 Wire Rack
Ingredients
Refrigerated
- 7 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cup milk
Grocery
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tbsp baking powder
- 3/4 tbsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Measure 1 1/4 cups of flour, 3/4 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp baking powder.
- Sift the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl to break down lumps and aerate the mixture.
- Whisk together to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- Place 5 tablespoons of softened butter in a mixing bowl
- Beat the butter on medium speed until creamy. Add 3/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup sifted cocoa powder.
- Mix until well combined, scraping the bowl as needed.
Incorporate Egg
- Add 1 egg to the butter and sugar mixture and blend until smooth.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with 1/2 cup of milk, alternating between dry ingredients and milk.
- Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.
Scoop and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop batter onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.
Make Vanilla Frosting
- Beat 1/2 cup softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add 2 cups confectioners’ sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix well. Adjust consistency with milk if needed, beating for 3-5 minutes until fluffy.
Make Chocolate Frosting
- Melt 2 oz bittersweet and 2 oz semisweet chocolate together. Stir in 1 tbsp melted butter for smoothness.
- Combine 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, 2 tbsp corn syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the chocolate mixture. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
Frost Cookies
- Frost the flat bottom side of each cookie with vanilla frosting on one half and chocolate frosting on the other.
Enjoy Your Half Moon Cookies
- Enjoy the cookies’ soft, cake-like texture with the contrasting vanilla and chocolate frostings. Perfect with a cup of coffee or milk, these cookies are a delightful treat for any time.