Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines two soft, peanut-buttery cookies with a rich, creamy filling in between. These sweet, nutty delights are perfect for any occasion, offering the satisfying crunch and flavor of peanut butter in every bite. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or serve them at parties, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The contrast between the chewy cookies and smooth filling creates a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of peanut butter. Peanut butter lovers, in particular, will appreciate the bold and savory taste that shines through in each cookie sandwich, making it a comforting and timeless dessert. The recipe is easy to prepare, requiring only a few common ingredients, and the result is a cookie sandwich that’s both simple to make and absolutely delicious.
The History of Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches
Peanut butter has been a staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century. The origins of the modern peanut butter cookie date back to the early 1900s, when recipes for peanut butter cookies started appearing in cookbooks and newspapers. The cookie’s popularity grew as peanut butter became more widely available, especially after the creation of J.M. Smucker’s peanut butter in the 1920s. Peanut butter cookie sandwiches, however, are a more recent invention. Combining two peanut butter cookies with a sweet filling is thought to be a 20th-century adaptation of traditional peanut butter cookies, inspired by the rising popularity of cookie sandwiches in general. Today, peanut butter cookie sandwiches are enjoyed by all ages and have become a beloved variation of the classic peanut butter cookie. Whether filled with buttercream, chocolate, or marshmallow fluff, they are a versatile dessert that appeals to many different tastes.
Ingredients Breakdown
The ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches are simple, but each one contributes significantly to the final flavor and texture. All-purpose flour serves as the base for the cookies, providing structure. Baking soda ensures the cookies rise slightly and become light and chewy. Salt balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the peanut butter and sugar. Unsalted butter helps create a rich, soft cookie texture and pairs beautifully with the peanut butter. Peanut butter is, of course, the star of the show, giving the cookies their characteristic flavor and creaminess. Granulated sugar and brown sugar are used to add sweetness and moisture, with brown sugar offering a bit of extra depth and richness. The egg binds the ingredients together, while vanilla extract adds an aromatic flavor that complements the peanut butter. For the filling, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract come together to create a sweet, smooth buttercream that contrasts perfectly with the cookies.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature) and ½ cup of peanut butter until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and mix until combined.
- Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together.
- Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to form dough into small balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, make the filling. In a medium bowl, beat together ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1½ cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of filling on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches
For perfectly chewy peanut butter cookies, be sure to measure the ingredients accurately. If you prefer a softer cookie, take care not to overbake the cookies, as they will continue to firm up as they cool. If you’re looking for a stronger peanut butter flavor, consider using chunky peanut butter for added texture. Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from melting or becoming too soft. You can also chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want to prevent the cookies from spreading too much. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the dough for extra flavor. When making the filling, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve your desired sweetness and consistency.
Variations and Customizations
Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the finished sandwiches for extra indulgence. For a healthier version, you can substitute the granulated sugar and brown sugar with honey or maple syrup and use natural peanut butter. If you prefer a lighter filling, you can opt for whipped cream cheese or marshmallow fluff instead of buttercream. For those following a gluten-free diet, a gluten-free flour blend can easily replace the all-purpose flour. You can also add other ingredients to the cookie dough, like oats or raisins, to give the cookies more texture and flavor. Alternatively, if you’re looking to switch up the filling, try using Nutella, chocolate ganache, or even caramel for a different spin on the classic peanut butter cookie sandwich.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches are a rich and indulgent dessert, so they should be enjoyed in moderation, particularly if you are watching your calorie or sugar intake. A typical sandwich contains around 200-250 calories, with most of the calories coming from fat and sugar. While peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, the sugar in the filling adds significant sweetness to the cookies. If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar content in both the cookie dough and the filling, or substitute natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Additionally, using a lower-fat peanut butter or swapping the butter for a healthier fat like coconut oil can help lower the fat content. Keep in mind that while these cookies can be a delicious treat, they are high in calories and sugar, so it’s important to balance them with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
FAQ
- Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cookie sandwiches. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving. - Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used in place of regular peanut butter. However, it may produce a slightly different texture in the cookies, as natural peanut butter tends to be more runny and less creamy. - Can I make these cookies without the filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer simple peanut butter cookies, you can skip the filling and just bake the cookies as is. They will still have that rich peanut butter flavor and be just as delicious. - How can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?
If you prefer a less sweet filling, simply reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the buttercream. You can also substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener to make the filling lighter. - Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter in place of peanut butter. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the cookies, but the overall recipe will remain similar.
Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ▢ ½ cup granulated sugar plus extra for flattening
- ▢ ½ cup brown sugar
- ▢ ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ▢ ½ cup 1 stick butter, softened
- ▢ 1 egg
- ▢ 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ▢ ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ▢ ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ▢ ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling Options
- ▢ 1 cup melted chocolate chocolate-hazelnut spread, peanut butter, or jelly
Instructions
- Mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, and egg in an electric mixer until well combined. Add the remaining ingredients and stir until fully incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Roll the dough into 1¼ inch balls and place them about 3 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten the dough balls in a crisscross pattern using a fork dipped in sugar.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown, rotating the cookie sheet halfway through. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, about 15 minutes.
- Once the cookies are cool, flip them over and spread about a tablespoon of your preferred filling on the bottom of half of the cookies. Top with a similar-sized cookie to form sandwiches.
