Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful cookies combine rich, creamy peanut butter with a sweet filling, making them ideal for lunchboxes, parties, or a cozy dessert at home. The combination of textures and flavors creates a memorable experience that both kids and adults will love. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of peanut butter and sweet fillings create a rich taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and clear steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these cookies with confidence.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed as is or dressed up with chocolate drizzles or chopped nuts for added flair.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 servings, they’re great for gatherings or as homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or using alternative nut butters for unique variations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start baking. Having everything ready will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients, which is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture.
• Mixing bowls: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheets: Allows even baking; using multiple sheets can help speed up the process if you’re making several batches.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 113 g unsalted butter, soft but cool (1/2 c)
• 113 g shortening (1/2 c)
• 226 g creamy peanut butter (1 c)
• 200 g brown sugar (1 c)
• 200 g granulated sugar (1 c)
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 405 g all-purpose flour (3 cups + 6 Tbs)

For the Filling

• 113 g creamy peanut butter (1/2 c)
• 240 g powdered sugar (2 c)
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 5-7 tablespoons milk

Servings: 24
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT8M
Total Time: PT38M
Categories: Cookies

How to Make Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Unsalted butter, shortening, and both sugars. Beat until smooth.
2. Add in the creamy peanut butter, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla, salt, and baking soda.
4. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Scoop and Bake

1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 8 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While cookies cool, in another bowl:
1. Combine the second portion of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
2. Gradually add milk until you reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies are completely cool:
1. Spread filling on half of the cookies.
2. Top with remaining cookies to create sandwiches.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies! Perfect for sharing or savoring at home!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to elevate your dessert table or create a cozy snack time, these cookies are versatile and fun to serve.

Classic Milk Pairing

• A tall glass of cold milk perfectly complements the rich flavors of peanut butter. This pairing is timeless and loved by all.

Ice Cream Sandwich

• Take it up a notch by adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This creates a deliciously creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm days.

Party Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter alongside fresh fruit and other bite-sized desserts. This adds variety and appeals to different tastes.

Gift-Worthy Treats

• Package these cookies in a decorative box with a ribbon for an excellent homemade gift. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family.

Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee during your afternoon break. The combination is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, which results in a smoother dough.

• Don’t overmix: Mix the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring thicker cookies.

• Measure flour accurately: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid using too much, which can make cookies dry and crumbly.

• Watch baking time closely: Bake the cookies until they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies enhances their enjoyment. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the cookie’s texture.

3. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake pairs beautifully with peanut butter flavors, creating an indulgent treat.

4. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
   Crunchy veggies like carrots and celery dipped in hummus provide a healthy contrast to sweet treats.

5. Nut Mix
   A bowl of assorted nuts offers protein-packed crunchiness that works well alongside sweet cookies.

6. Herbal Tea
   A soothing cup of herbal tea rounds out the flavor experience without overshadowing the cookie’s taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies is fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the chill time: If you don’t let the dough chill, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not cooling before filling: Filling warm cookies can cause them to become mushy. Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding any filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container.
• They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, but be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies.

How do I make Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor, making your cookies even more delightful.

What is the best way to customize Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits into the dough for added flavor and texture.

How long do Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! They freeze well. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly or placed in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various fillings or mix-ins based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re making them for special occasions or just because, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.