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These homemade Nutter Butter cookies transform the classic peanut butter sandwich cookie into a next level treat, perfect for anyone searching for nostalgic flavor with a homemade twist in just 30 minutes. This easy recipe delivers supremely soft, peanut butter cookies sandwiched around a creamy filling, offering pure comfort and impressive results for weeknight baking or special occasions. Simple pantry ingredients and quick assembly make these cookies ideal for satisfying peanut butter cravings without fuss or special equipment.
I first made these homemade Nutter Butter cookies when my son requested something extra special for his birthday, and they immediately became our family's most requested peanut butter dessert. The combination of a soft cookie texture with decadent yet not too sweet filling has everyone—kids and adults alike—coming back for seconds. Tweaking the filling with a bit more peanut butter than the classic creates an even richer flavor, and seeing everyone's faces light up after their first bite is always a highlight in our home baking tradition.
Gather Your Ingredients
- All-purpose flour (1½ cups Nutter Butter cookie flour): Essential for structure, use regular flour for a soft yet sturdy cookie; gluten free blends can be swapped for dietary needs
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon leavening): Creates the signature rise and a light, soft texture; double check freshness for best results
- Kosher salt (1¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies peanut butter flavor; use flaky sea salt if desired but reduce amount
- Unsalted butter (1½ cup, room temp): Properly softened butter ensures creamy dough and smooth filling; salted butter can be used, but reduce additional salt slightly
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, moisture booster): Adds depth and softness; can use dark brown for a stronger molasses note, or half white sugar if preferred
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup classic peanut butter): Use commercial brands like Jif or Skippy for optimal consistency; natural peanut butter may alter texture
- Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds the dough, ensures tender texture; an extra egg yolk can be added for chewier cookies
- Pure vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances overall peanut flavor and aroma; use real vanilla for best results
- Granulated sugar (½ cup, for rolling): Creates a sweet, crisp edge on each cookie; raw sugar can be substituted for a crunchier crust
- Peanut Butter Filling:
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, soft): Provides a rich, smooth base; can use vegan butter for dairy-free option
- Creamy peanut butter (½ cup, spreadable): Must be smooth for easy spreading; crunchy is possible for added texture
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups, sweetness + structure): Thickens the filling; sift for lump-free texture
- Milk (2 Tablespoons, for texture): Adjusts the filling to perfect spreading consistency; dairy free milk works as a substitute
- Vanilla extract (¼ teaspoon, for flavor depth): Adds balanced aroma to the frosting; optional but recommended
How to Make Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
- Prepare the Oven and Sheets:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Pour ½ cup granulated sugar in a small bowl for rolling, setting up for both easy baking and that signature sweet crust each cookie needs.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl, ensuring leavening agents are evenly distributed for lift and consistent texture. Set aside while prepping the wet mixture.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- Using a stand mixer with paddle (or electric hand mixer), beat softened butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter at medium speed for two to three minutes until light and fluffy. Proper creaming introduces air, making cookies soft and tender.
- Add Egg and Vanilla:
- Mix in the egg and vanilla, beating another minute until fully incorporated. Scrape down bowl sides for even mixing, yielding a pale, cohesive batter as the base for classic Nutter Butter flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add flour mixture on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix to prevent tough cookies; dough should feel thick yet manageable.
- Shape the Cookie Dough:
- Scoop rounded tablespoons and roll into balls, then form logs about two inches long. Roll logs in reserved sugar for a crunchy edge, then transfer to lined baking sheets, spacing about two inches apart for proper spreading.
- Create Crosshatch Pattern:
- Flatten each log gently with a fork, making a crosshatch pattern that mimics classic Nutter Butter style and presses dough to desired thickness for even baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for eight to ten minutes; edges should be set, centers slightly underdone. Cookies will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking for authentic softness.
- Cool Cookies:
- Let cookies cool five minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to a rack to cool fully without breaking; key for easy sandwich assembly later.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Beat soft butter and peanut butter together until creamy, about two minutes, using an electric mixer. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, mixing first on low to prevent sugar clouds, then high for a light, fluffy consistency (about three minutes total).
- Assemble Cookie Sandwiches:
- Spread or pipe about one tablespoon of filling on the underside of half the cooled cookies, then top with remaining cookies and press gently. Filling should reach near the edges; let set 30 minutes for tidy sandwiches that hold together well.
I found that increasing the peanut butter in the filling by one extra tablespoon makes the flavor pop even more, turning a nostalgic copycat into a bakery worthy treat. My family likes these slightly less sweet than the packaged version, letting the roasted peanut notes shine while still pleasing even the pickiest eaters. Each batch disappears fast, especially when we serve them as an after school treat or bring them to parties.
Smart Swaps and Variations
The base recipe for these homemade Nutter Butter cookies is highly adaptable for different tastes and needs. For crunch, stir in chopped peanuts or use crunchy peanut butter in both dough and filling. Swap ¼ cup flour for cocoa powder and add mini chocolate chips for a chocolate peanut butter version perfect for dessert platters. Those with gluten sensitivities can use a 1 to 1 gluten free baking mix for cookies with a slightly lighter, but still satisfying texture. Peanut allergies are easily worked around with creamy almond or sunflower seed butter—the flavor changes but the signature sandwich cookie format stays just as fun. Dress them up for holidays with colored sugar, sprinkles, or by dipping in melted chocolate.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
Store cooled, filled Nutter Butter cookies in an airtight container with parchment between layers at room temperature for up to five days, preserving softness and flavor. For longer term storage, individually wrap cookies and freeze for up to three months in a freezer safe container, thawing at room temp for about an hour before serving. The dough itself can be made ahead and chilled for up to three days, or frozen as shaped logs and baked right from the freezer with one to two minutes added to the bake time for ultimate convenience. Room temperature storage is preferable, as refrigeration can dry the cookies out.
What to Serve with Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
Nothing beats the classic pairing of these homemade Nutter Butters with a cold glass of milk, balancing their rich peanut butter flavor. For adults, serve alongside coffee or espresso for a sophisticated contrast. Use cookies as the centerpiece of ice cream sandwiches with vanilla or chocolate ice cream, or crumble over sundaes for a fun take on a deconstructed dessert. These cookies also complement other treats on dessert platters or can even be included on cheese boards, where their sweetness pairs well with mild, creamy cheeses and fresh fruit slices for gatherings and holidays.
Nutritional Benefits
Homemade Nutter Butter cookies offer advantages over boxed brands, as they use real butter and peanut butter, providing quality fats and protein for a more satisfying snack. Peanut butter contributes vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium as well as some fiber, especially when made with natural styles. Each serving averages about 427 calories, with 23 grams of fat, 53 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein, making them more substantial than many desserts. Reducing the sugar or opting for natural or lower sugar options can enhance the health profile while still delivering delicious peanutty flavor.
Recipe Success Tips
If cookies spread too flat, dough may be too warm—chill before baking for improved shape. For cookies that stay too thick, flatten dough logs more before pressing, and use room temperature baking sheets, as cold ones can keep dough from spreading. If filling is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until the right consistency is reached; if too stiff, blend in milk by a half teaspoon at a time. Test one or two cookies before baking the full sheet to fine tune texture, and cool sheets between batches for the most consistent appearance and softness.
These homemade Nutter Butter cookies have become a signature treat for our family, showing up everywhere from lunchbox surprises to holiday cookie exchanges. With authentic flavor and simple steps, you’ll love sharing these decadent, peanutty sandwiches with your loved ones any time you crave a homemade classic.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do you achieve a soft, chewy cookie texture?
Cream butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter together thoroughly, and be careful not to overbake. The cookies will continue to set as they cool on the pan.
- → What is the key to making a creamy peanut butter filling?
Beat softened butter and creamy peanut butter until fluffy, then mix in powdered sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla for smoothness and flavor.
- → Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture, but the filling will be less smooth compared to using creamy peanut butter.
- → How should I shape the cookies for an authentic look?
Roll the dough into logs, then shape gently to resemble classic nutter butter sandwich cookies before baking.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer freshness.