If you are searching for a delightful treat to impress friends, family, or just satisfy your snack cravings, this Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe has got you covered. These cookies marry the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with a delightfully soft texture, all wrapped up in a charming sandwich cookie shape that’s perfect for any occasion. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty taste, making this recipe an absolute crowd-pleaser. You will love how easy it is to prepare, yet incredibly satisfying to eat!

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, familiar ingredients come together to create the magic of these Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies. Each item plays an essential role, from the creamy peanut butter that adds decadence to the sugars that create that perfect sweet crunch and soft texture.

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create that tender crumb in the cookies.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in crisping the edges during baking.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note for depth of flavor.
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that delivers distinct peanut flavor and creamy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together, ensuring soft but sturdy cookies.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for the perfect soft bite.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the peanut flavor.
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (for filling): Provides that luscious filling between the cookies.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Makes the filling smooth and creamy.
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens and thickens the sandwich cookie filling.
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency): Adjusts the filling texture so it’s just right for spreading.

How to Make Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookies

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup easier and your cookies look picture-perfect.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars with Peanut Butter

Using a mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, offering that lovely tender texture in the finished cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and enhance the flavor, creating a balanced dough that bakes up beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mixing carefully ensures your cookies are soft without becoming dense or tough.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball gently with a fork to create those classic crisscross marks. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are just set and the centers are soft. Let them cool completely before the next step.

Step 6: Make the Filling

Beat together the peanut butter and softened unsalted butter until creamy. This creates the luscious base of your sandwich filling. Slowly add in the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. If the filling is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk as needed to reach the perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Spread generous amounts of the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Then gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. The final presentation should reveal the creamy filling peeking out and promise a delicious bite.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add a little extra flair, dust the top of your cookies lightly with powdered sugar or sprinkle mini chocolate chips around the edge of the filling before sandwiching. These little touches make your peanut butter sandwich cookies look as delightful as they taste.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a more decadent snack, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to complement the rich peanut butter flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a beautiful platter or stack them in a jar tied with a rustic ribbon for gifting. You can even sandwich a small slice of banana inside along with the filling for a fun twist. These simple presentation ideas make your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe feel like a special treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps the cookies soft and the filling creamy, allowing you to enjoy their fresh-baked taste throughout the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cookies either assembled or separately. If freezing separately, wrap the cookies and filling tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and assemble fresh. This way, you can enjoy these treats anytime you want.

Reheating

If your cookies feel a bit firm from refrigeration or freezing, warm them briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes. This reawakens the softness and makes the peanut butter filling deliciously melty again.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to both the cookies and filling, giving each bite a bit of extra crunch. Just be sure to adjust the filling consistency with milk as needed.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. This allows you to enjoy these peanut butter sandwich cookies without compromising on taste or texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough briefly before baking if it’s very soft. Flattening with a fork creates those signature marks and controls spreading for perfectly shaped cookies.

Can I make these Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, use a flax egg or other egg substitute, and choose powdered sugar that is vegan-friendly. The peanut butter flavor will still shine beautifully.

What’s the best way to get a fluffy filling without it being too sweet?

The key is to beat the peanut butter and butter thoroughly before gradually adding powdered sugar. Adding milk a little at a time allows you to control the sweetness and texture, making the filling both creamy and balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe is one of those comforting, irresistible treats that you will want to make again and again. Its simplicity combined with the rich peanut butter flavor never fails to bring smiles and sweet memories. Whether baking for a special occasion or a casual snack, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your collection. Go ahead, give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!