If you are a fan of classic peanut butter cookies with a nostalgic twist, then this Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These cookies capture the irresistible flavor combination of rich peanut butter and sweet, creamy filling sandwiched between perfectly soft yet slightly crisp cookies. The balance of textures and the depth of peanut flavor make this treat an all-time comfort food, perfect for sharing or sneaking a few bites when no one is watching.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward cookie nirvana, and this recipe keeps it wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays an essential role: from the creamy peanut butter that delivers that unmistakable taste, to the sugars that provide sweetness and a tender crumb, and the baking essentials that guarantee a flawless texture.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup: Creamy and rich, butter adds moisture and flavor, helping to keep cookies soft yet flaky.
- Creamy peanut butter, 1 cup: The star of the show, it infuses the dough with a smooth, nutty richness.
- Granulated sugar, 1 cup: Balances texture and sweetness with a slight crunch as it bakes.
- Brown sugar, 1 cup: Adds moisture and caramel undertones for depth of flavor and chewiness.
- Large eggs, 2: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the flavors with a sweet, fragrant note.
- All-purpose flour, 2 1/2 cups: Provides the structure to the cookies making them sturdy but tender.
- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise just right, creating a tender crumb.
- Baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon: Works alongside baking soda for balanced leavening.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Elevates all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Creamy peanut butter for filling, 1/2 cup: Adds luscious, smooth texture to the sandwich center.
- Powdered sugar, 2 cups: Sweetens and thickens the filling without graininess.
- Unsalted butter for filling, 1/4 cup: Brings richness and soft texture to the creamy filling.
- Heavy cream, 3-4 tablespoons: Makes the filling silky and spreadable.
- Vanilla extract for filling, 1 teaspoon: Adds a touch of warmth to the sweet filling.
How to Make Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prep allows for even cooking and ensures the cookies won’t stick or burn on the bottom, giving you that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which helps your cookies have that lovely texture — a mix between tender and slightly crisp. Once that’s smooth, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet bowl while mixing on low speed, just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix here as it can lead to tough cookies — gentle folding is the way to go.
Step 4: Shape and Bake Your Cookies
Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and roll each into smooth balls. Place them on your lined baking sheets and gently flatten each ball with a fork, creating that classic Nutter Butter crisscross pattern. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cookie edges turn a lovely golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
While your cookies are cooling, whip together the filling by beating the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what truly elevates the Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe to pure delight, creating the perfect creamy texture to sandwich your cookies together with.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cool, spread a generous dollop of peanut butter filling on the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it with another. Press gently so the filling spreads evenly to the edges. You’re now ready to indulge in these irresistible sandwiches!
How to Serve Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of flair, consider rolling the edges of your filled cookies in finely chopped peanuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate. These garnishes add a bit of visual appeal and an extra layer of taste and texture that makes each bite even more special.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a creamy latte, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent dessert experience. The richness of the cookies contrasts wonderfully with these refreshing companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a small tower of the sandwich cookies tied together with a rustic twine ribbon for festive occasions or gifts. You can also arrange them on a platter with fresh berries or salted caramel sauce drizzled around for a sophisticated touch. Presentation can make your Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe feel like a showstopper at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they should stay fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cookies separately or sandwich them with filling and freeze them as well. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
If you want that freshly baked warm cookie experience, reheat frozen or stored cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This warms the filling and softens the cookie without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter if you like a little extra texture in your cookies, but it may change the smoothness of the filling slightly. It’s a delicious variation if you enjoy some peanut chunks!
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Using salted butter is fine, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Make sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking if you find your cookies are spreading too much. Also, avoid using too much butter or peanut butter as excessive fat can cause spreading.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Results might vary slightly in texture, but the flavor should remain wonderful.
How long does the filling keep if made in advance?
The peanut butter filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and stir before spreading to regain its perfect creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Diving into this Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe is like wrapping your hands around a warm, nostalgic hug of peanut buttery goodness and sweet, creamy filling. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfied sighs with every bite. Give this recipe a try – I promise it will quickly become one of your cherished favorites!
Print
Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies recreate the classic peanut butter sandwich cookie with a soft, chewy texture and a creamy peanut butter filling. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and a light crunch from the fork-pressed top, these cookies are ideal for peanut butter lovers seeking a delicious homemade treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Scoop the dough by tablespoons, roll into balls and flatten each with a fork to create the classic peanut butter cookie pattern. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Filling and Assemble: For the filling, beat together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once cookies have cooled, spread the filling on one cookie and sandwich it with another to complete your homemade Nutter Butter cookie.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and peanut butter are softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- You can adjust the heavy cream in the filling to achieve your desired consistency.
- Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a crunchier texture, baking time can be extended by 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
