Beyond the Biscuit: Creative Recipes After the Great Value Twist & Shout Recall
The recent recall of Great Value Twist & Shout cookies due to undeclared allergens has understandably left many pantries lighter and consumers searching for alternatives. While the immediate concern is the recall itself, it also presents a unique opportunity to explore new baking adventures and create delicious treats using alternative ingredients and techniques. This article provides a collection of creative recipes inspired by the classic chocolate sandwich cookie, offering inventive ways to satisfy your sweet tooth even without your go-to brand. We’ll cover everything from scratch-made versions to repurposing similar cookies and even completely different desserts that capture the essence of that chocolatey, creamy flavor combination.
**Understanding the Recall: A Quick Recap**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s briefly revisit the Great Value Twist & Shout cookie recall. The primary reason for the recall was the undeclared presence of milk, a potential allergen that could pose a health risk to individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities. It’s crucial to check your pantry and discard or return any recalled products to ensure your safety. For the most up-to-date information and specific lot codes affected, refer to the official recall announcement from Walmart or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This will give you peace of mind before moving forward with alternate options for your baking needs. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to potential allergens.
**Recipe Alternatives: From Scratch-Made to Clever Repurposing**
Now, let’s get to the fun part: exploring delicious alternatives to satisfy your chocolate sandwich cookie cravings. We’ll cover three main approaches:
* **Scratch-Made Chocolate Sandwich Cookies:** The ultimate solution: crafting your own cookies from scratch!
* **Repurposing Similar Cookies:** If you have other chocolate sandwich cookies (ensure they are *not* part of the recall and safe for your family’s dietary needs), we’ll explore ways to elevate them.
* **Chocolate Sandwich Cookie-Inspired Desserts:** Think outside the cookie box! We’ll create entirely new desserts inspired by the classic flavor profile.
**I. Scratch-Made Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: The From-Scratch Delight**
Making your own chocolate sandwich cookies from scratch gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs. Here’s a detailed recipe:
**A. Homemade Chocolate Wafer Cookies (Yields approximately 24 sandwich cookies)**
**Ingredients:**
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend, see notes below)
* ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
* ¾ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of ingredients, particularly the baking soda, for proper leavening.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes 3-5 minutes. Creaming incorporates air, which contributes to the cookies’ texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. Mix until the flour streaks disappear.
6. **Shape the Cookies:** Use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon) or a spoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into a log, chill it for at least 30 minutes, and then slice it into thin rounds.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep a close eye on them, as bake times can vary depending on your oven.
8. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking while they are still warm and soft.
**B. Vanilla Cream Filling**
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter:** In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy. This ensures a light and airy filling.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Start with a low speed to prevent a powdered sugar cloud.
3. **Add Liquid and Vanilla:** Add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
4. **Assemble the Cookies:** Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of vanilla cream filling on the bottom of one cookie and top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Gently press the cookies together to help the filling adhere.
**Notes and Variations for Scratch Made Cookies:**
* **Gluten-Free:** To make these cookies gluten-free, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten-Free Flour are good choices.
* **Vegan:** For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly (some brands process it with bone char). You can use plant-based milk or cream in the filling.
* **Chocolate Filling:** For a chocolate filling, add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the vanilla cream filling recipe. You can also melt some chocolate and swirl it into the filling for a richer flavor.
* **Mint Filling:** Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the vanilla cream filling for a refreshing mint chocolate combination. You can also add some green food coloring for a festive touch (optional).
* **Espresso Filling:** Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the vanilla cream filling for a coffee-flavored twist. This complements the chocolate cookies beautifully.
* **Storage:** Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies (assembled or unassembled) for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving.
* **Thin Crispy Cookies:** For thinner, crispier cookies, use slightly less flour and roll the dough out very thinly before baking. Keep a close eye on them in the oven as they will bake faster.
* **Soft Chewy Cookies:** For softer, chewier cookies, use slightly more flour and don’t overbake them. They should still be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
**II. Repurposing Similar Cookies: Elevating Store-Bought Goodies**
If you happen to have other brands of chocolate sandwich cookies on hand (that are *not* part of the recall!), you can transform them into something even more special. This is a great way to use up cookies and create a unique dessert without starting completely from scratch. Ensure that any cookies used are safe for consumption and meet any dietary requirements for your family.
**A. Chocolate Sandwich Cookie Truffles**
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (approximately 10-12 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white, depending on your preference)
* 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
* Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other toppings (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush the Cookies:** Place the chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until they are finely crushed. Alternatively, you can place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
2. **Combine with Cream Cheese:** In a large bowl, combine the crushed cookies and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined and the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
3. **Shape into Balls:** Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate the cookie balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This will make them easier to dip in chocolate.
5. **Melt Chocolate:** In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening (if using). If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. The shortening helps to thin the chocolate and give it a smoother consistency.
6. **Dip the Truffles:** Dip each chilled cookie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tools to remove the truffle from the chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
7. **Decorate (Optional):** Immediately sprinkle the truffles with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other desired toppings while the chocolate is still wet.
8. **Set:** Place the dipped truffles back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
9. **Serve:** Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**B. Chocolate Sandwich Cookie Bark**
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (approximately 10-12 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies, coarsely chopped
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white, depending on your preference)
* 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
* Pretzels, chopped nuts, sprinkles, or other toppings (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Chocolate:** In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening (if using). If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
2. **Spread Chocolate:** Spread the melted chocolate evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. **Add Cookies and Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped chocolate sandwich cookies and other desired toppings (pretzels, nuts, sprinkles) evenly over the melted chocolate.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Once the chocolate is set, break the bark into irregular pieces.
6. **Serve:** Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
**C. Chocolate Sandwich Cookie Milkshake**
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 chocolate sandwich cookies
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* ½ cup milk (or more, to adjust consistency)
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Chocolate syrup (optional)
* Extra cookies for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the chocolate sandwich cookies, vanilla ice cream, and milk.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. **Pour and Garnish:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and a cookie for garnish, if desired.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**III. Chocolate Sandwich Cookie-Inspired Desserts: Thinking Outside the Cookie Box**
Let’s move beyond the cookies themselves and explore entirely new desserts that capture the essence of the chocolate sandwich cookie flavor profile. These recipes use the combination of chocolate and creamy vanilla to create delicious and unexpected treats.
**A. Chocolate Vanilla Parfaits**
**Ingredients:**
* Chocolate cake cubes (store-bought or homemade)
* Vanilla pudding or mousse
* Whipped cream
* Crushed chocolate cookies (optional, for added texture)
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer Ingredients:** In a glass or parfait dish, layer the chocolate cake cubes, vanilla pudding or mousse, and whipped cream.
2. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
3. **Top with Cookies (Optional):** Top with crushed chocolate cookies for added flavor and texture.
4. **Chill:** Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**B. Chocolate Vanilla Swirl Brownies**
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite brownie recipe (or box mix)
* Vanilla frosting or a simple vanilla glaze
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Brownie Batter:** Prepare your brownie batter according to the recipe instructions.
2. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the brownie batter into a greased and lined baking pan.
3. **Add Vanilla Swirl:** Drop spoonfuls of vanilla frosting or glaze over the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the vanilla into the chocolate batter.
4. **Bake:** Bake the brownies according to the recipe instructions.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
**C. No-Bake Chocolate Lasagna**
**Ingredients:**
* Chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed)
* Melted butter
* Cream cheese, softened
* Powdered sugar
* Whipped topping
* Chocolate pudding
* Milk
* Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cookie Crust:** Combine crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
2. **Cream Cheese Layer:** In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread over the cookie crust.
3. **Pudding Layer:** Prepare chocolate pudding according to package directions, using slightly less milk for a thicker consistency. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
4. **Whipped Topping Layer:** Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
5. **Garnish and Chill:** Sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
**Important Considerations and Safety Tips**
* **Always Check Recall Notices:** Stay informed about recalls from the FDA and other relevant authorities. These notices provide crucial information about affected products and potential health risks.
* **Read Labels Carefully:** Whether you’re using alternative cookies or making your own ingredients, meticulously read the labels to identify any potential allergens or ingredients that may not be suitable for your dietary needs.
* **Cross-Contamination:** Be mindful of cross-contamination, especially when dealing with allergens. Use separate utensils and equipment when preparing food for individuals with allergies. Thoroughly clean surfaces and utensils after use.
* **Storage Safety:** Store homemade cookies and desserts properly to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate items as needed. Label and date your stored items for easy identification.
* **Consider Dietary Restrictions:** When adapting recipes, be considerate of various dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, veganism, and nut allergies. Make appropriate substitutions and adjustments to accommodate different needs.
**Final Thoughts: Embracing Culinary Creativity**
The recall of Great Value Twist & Shout cookies might have seemed like a setback, but it’s also an opportunity to explore the endless possibilities in the kitchen. Whether you choose to recreate your favorite cookies from scratch, transform similar cookies into new delights, or venture into entirely new desserts inspired by the classic flavor profile, the key is to embrace your culinary creativity and have fun in the process. These recipes provide a starting point, but feel free to experiment with different flavors, textures, and ingredients to create your own unique and delicious treats. Happy baking!
Remember to always prioritize food safety, stay informed about recalls, and read labels carefully. By taking these precautions, you can confidently enjoy your baking adventures and create delicious treats that are safe and satisfying for everyone.