Homemade Mint Milano Cookies

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Cookie Dough**
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This will create a smooth base for your cookies.

#### 2. **Incorporate the Wet Ingredients**
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and continue to beat until well combined. The egg helps bind the dough together, while the vanilla enhances the flavor.

#### 3. **Combine the Dry Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; a slightly crumbly dough is perfect for these cookies.

#### 4. **Shape the Cookies**
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small dough balls (about 1 teaspoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Gently flatten each dough ball into an oval shape using your fingers or a fork. The shape of the cookie should be slender and elongated to resemble the classic Milano look.

#### 5. **Bake the Cookies**
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

#### 6. **Prepare the Mint Chocolate Filling**
While the cookies are cooling, it’s time to prepare the mint chocolate filling. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Once the chocolate is melted, add the peppermint extract, adjusting the amount based on how strong you want the mint flavor. Stir until the mint is evenly incorporated.

#### 7. **Assemble the Cookies**
Once the cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to sandwich them together with the mint chocolate filling. Spread a generous amount of the mint chocolate mixture onto the flat side of one cookie, then press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat this process for the remaining cookies.

#### 8. **Let the Filling Set**
Allow the assembled cookies to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to let the chocolate filling set and firm up slightly. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the cookies in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to speed up the process.

#### 9. **Enjoy!**
Once the mint chocolate filling has set, your **Homemade Mint Milano Cookies** are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—though they likely won’t last that long.

### Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
**Homemade Mint Milano Cookies** combine two of the most delightful things in the world: a buttery, crisp cookie and a rich, minty chocolate filling. The mint adds a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the smooth, semi-sweet chocolate. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a smooth, indulgent chocolate center that melts in your mouth. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet snack, sharing with friends, or serving them at a gathering.

### Healthier Twist:
While these cookies are a delicious indulgence, you can make them slightly healthier by swapping out the butter for coconut oil or using a lower-sugar chocolate filling. Additionally, if you want a more plant-based version, substitute the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

### Variations:
– **Chocolate Mint Filling**: If you’re a fan of extra chocolate, you can make the filling with a layer of dark chocolate ganache. Use dark chocolate chips and a bit of coconut milk for a rich, intense flavor.
– **Crunchy Texture**: Add finely chopped mint-flavored chocolate or mint chips to the dough for an added minty crunch in every bite.
– **Nutty Twist**: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, into the cookie dough for a textured contrast with the smooth chocolate mint filling.

### Final Thoughts:
Making **Homemade Mint Milano Cookies** is a fun and rewarding baking project that results in a decadent treat you’ll love. These cookies offer the perfect balance of buttery crunch and rich, mint-infused chocolate, and they’re sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re a mint chocolate lover or simply want to try something new, this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a homemade version of a beloved classic. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful cookies—they’ll be gone before you know it!