If you are craving a truly irresistible treat that combines the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter with a soft, perfectly baked cookie, you have to try this Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe. This delightful dessert brings together two classic peanut butter cookies with a luscious, creamy filling that melts in your mouth. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying familiar flavors in a fun, sandwich-style presentation that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s giving the cookies their tender texture, that unmistakable peanut butter flavor, or a perfect hint of sweetness that keeps you reaching for more.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup plus 1/4 cup, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookies and creaminess to the filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely crisp edge on the cookies.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Introduces a bit of moisture and a subtle caramel note, deepening the overall flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough ingredients and adds structure to each cookie.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup total): The star ingredient delivering signature peanut flavor in both the cookie and the filling.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A small but essential boost of warmth and aromatic depth.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The foundation that holds everything together with just the right firmness.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the cookies a light lift and softness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances and balances the sweet flavors.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): Creates a silky smooth filling with just the perfect amount of sweetness.
- Milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts the filling consistency to that perfect creamy spreadability.
How to Make Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is light, fluffy, and inviting. This step is key for developing that irresistible texture in your cookies. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form the Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together easily, and it’s normal for it to feel a bit sticky—that means your cookies will be tender and moist!
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with a fork, creating that classic crisscross pattern that screams peanut butter cookie love. Bake them in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and let the cookies cool completely; this step ensures the filling does not melt when assembled.
Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
While the cookies cool, it’s time to make the luscious filling. Beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, blending well. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the filling reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency—thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to easily spread between cookies.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Take one cookie and spread a generous dollop of the peanut butter filling on its flat side. Top it with a second cookie, flat side down, gently pressing so the filling spreads evenly but doesn’t squish out the edges. Repeat until all cookies are paired up, creating delightful sandwiches that are sure to disappear quickly!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe by dusting a little powdered sugar on top or sprinkling some finely chopped peanuts around the edges of the filling for a crunchy texture contrast. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of colorful mini chocolate chips can also add a fun, festive touch that’s perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
Side Dishes
These sandwich cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, coffee, or even a cup of hot tea, making them an excellent choice for an afternoon snack or after-dinner dessert. For a more decadent experience, consider serving alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of peanut butter gelato for a dreamy peanut butter extravaganza.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, arrange your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe in a decorative stack tied with a bright ribbon for a charming gift. You can also place them on a platter interspersed with fresh berries or edible flowers for a vibrant presentation. Another fun approach is to partially dip each sandwich in melted chocolate and let them set—creating an irresistible treat that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your peanut butter sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This storage method preserves their soft texture and creamy filling without drying them out. For longer storage, layering the cookies with parchment paper will prevent sticking and maintain their perfect shape.
Freezing
You can freeze your cookies assembled or unassembled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to keep the filling smooth and the cookies tender without any sogginess.
Reheating
If you want a warm experience, briefly microwave a sandwich cookie for about 10-15 seconds to soften the center—this creates a gooey, delightful peanut butter melt-in-your-mouth moment. Just be careful not to overheat, as the filling can become too runny and warm.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds a lovely texture to both the cookies and the filling, giving the sandwich cookies a delightful crunchy surprise that’s perfect if you love extra nutty bites.
What is the best way to prevent these cookies from sticking together in storage?
Layering the cookies with sheets of parchment or wax paper in between helps keep them separate and prevents the peanut butter filling from sticking, ensuring each cookie stays intact and easy to enjoy later.
Can I make this Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture in the cookies.
Is there a way to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can slightly reduce the granulated and brown sugar amounts, but keep in mind the powdered sugar in the filling contributes a lot to the sweetness and texture. Adjust carefully to maintain the perfect balance of flavor and consistency.
How long do these cookies last if frozen?
Frozen peanut butter sandwich cookies maintain their best quality for up to 2 months. Beyond that, they may start to lose flavor and texture, so try to consume within this time frame for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe is an absolute joy to bake and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, gifting to a friend, or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy those peanut butter cravings. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into baking a batch of these sweet, creamy, and utterly delicious peanut butter sandwich treats!
Print
Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies (9 sandwiches)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat combining soft, chewy peanut butter cookies with a creamy peanut butter filling. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies offer a rich, nutty flavor balanced by the sweetness of the filling. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, they make a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate moisture and flavor into the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning before adding to the wet mixture.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to form a cookie dough without overmixing for optimal texture.
- Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, flatten each with a fork to create the classic peanut butter cookie pattern, and bake on prepared sheets for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling.
- Make the Filling: Beat together 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup softened butter until smooth and creamy, forming the base of the filling.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Milk: Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency for easy assembly.
- Assemble Cookies: Spread a generous amount of the peanut butter filling on the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie to form a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are assembled.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, avoid overbaking; take them out when edges are just golden.
- Milk amount in the filling can be adjusted for thicker or thinner frosting to preference.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture in both dough and filling.
- Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of filling for a sweet-salty contrast.
