Homemade Nutter Butters Recipe

If you have a soft spot for peanut butter and crave that perfect blend of crunchy and creamy in your cookies, you are going to love these Homemade Nutter Butters. This classic treat is recreated at home with simple ingredients that come together to produce a golden, peanut-shaped cookie with a luscious peanut butter filling sandwiched right inside. The result is irresistibly tender with just the right touch of sweetness and a nostalgic twist that brings back memories of childhood snack time. Once you try making Homemade Nutter Butters yourself, baking these delightful cookies will become a joyful kitchen ritual you’ll want to return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first joyful step toward making these delightful cookies. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing to the perfect texture, rich flavor, and that iconic peanut butter goodness.

• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides the structure that holds your cookies together with a soft, tender crumb.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Ensures your cookies rise just enough for a delightful lightness without becoming cakey.
• Kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut buttery flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup softened + 1/4 cup softened): Adds richness and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Light brown sugar (1 cup): Brings moisture and a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the cookie’s taste.
• Creamy peanut butter (1 cup + 1/2 cup): The star ingredient that infuses both the cookie dough and the filling with classic peanut butter goodness.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients and adds to the cookie’s softness.
• Pure vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Adds aromatic warmth that rounds out the flavor.
• Sugar for rolling (1/2 cup): Adds a delightful sweet crunch on the cookie exterior.
• Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the filling for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Milk (2 tablespoons): Lightens the filling’s texture, making it easier to spread or pipe.

How to Make Homemade Nutter Butters

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. Then, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl, so your dry ingredients are ready for quick mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Using a standing mixer or hand mixer, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step brings air into your dough, which helps keep the cookies tender. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your dry ingredient blend to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the dough tender and not tough.

Step 4: Shape and Sugar the Dough

Divide the dough into small balls, roughly 1 1/2 tablespoons each, then roll each ball gently into a log shape. Roll the logs into the bowl of sugar you set aside earlier, coating them completely. The sugar adds a subtle crunch and a pretty sparkle to the cookies once baked.

Step 5: Form the Peanut Shape

Place the sugared dough logs about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Using the tines of a fork, create a classic crisscross pattern on top. Then, gently pinch the middle of the log to form that distinct peanut shape which makes these cookies so charming.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake your Homemade Nutter Butters for 10–12 minutes until the edges are slightly browned but the centers remain soft. This balance is what makes them so wonderfully tender. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely, which will prevent breaking when you add the filling.

Step 7: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

With your standing mixer, beat together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of peanut butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture forms a smooth, spreadable filling perfect for sandwiching.

Step 8: Assemble the Cookies

Group your cooled cookies into pairs. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of your creamy filling onto the bottom cookie of each pair and gently press the second cookie on top to create that perfect homemade Nutter Butter sandwich.

How to Serve Homemade Nutter Butters

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a few chopped roasted peanuts on top of the filling before sandwiching the cookies. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the outside adds a lovely finish and a touch of whimsy. You could even drizzle a little melted chocolate on top for a decadent twist.

Side Dishes

Homemade Nutter Butters are fantastic served alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. Their richness pairs wonderfully with creamy or robust beverages, making snack time feel like a cozy indulgence. For parties, pair these cookies with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking homemade Nutter Butters on a pretty plate with parchment paper for a charming display. If you want to gift these treats, consider wrapping them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon or packing them in decorative tins. For a fun twist, sandwich some filling with different flavor variations like chocolate peanut butter or honey peanut butter to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your Homemade Nutter Butters fresh for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate texture. This makes them perfect for baking ahead for parties or snack prep.

Freezing

Both the cookies and the filling freeze beautifully. Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. You can also freeze the filling separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reassemble the sandwiches for fresh-from-the-oven taste any time you like.

Reheating

If you like your Homemade Nutter Butters a little warm, pop a sandwich cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the filling and revives that freshly baked feel. Just be careful not to heat too long or the cookies might get too soft or the filling melt completely.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to both the cookies and filling, giving your Homemade Nutter Butters a delightful crunch that some people really enjoy.

What is the best way to get the peanut shape on the cookies?

Using the tines of a fork to make the crisscross pattern followed by gently pinching the center of the dough log works perfectly. It’s a simple step that gives your cookies their iconic shape and charm.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute your all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture. Baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.

How long will the filling stay fresh?

The peanut butter filling stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using for easier spreading.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! These Homemade Nutter Butters are perfect for making in larger batches when you want to share or have plenty on hand for snack time. Just scale all ingredients accordingly, and bake in batches for best results.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about biting into a warm, tender, peanut-shaped cookie filled with creamy peanut butter filling. These Homemade Nutter Butters are a celebration of simple ingredients and nostalgic flavors that come together to create a timeless treat. Whether you’re baking them to share, gift, or simply enjoy yourself, I promise these cookies will bring a smile to your face and a happy memory to your heart. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with Homemade Nutter Butters made right in your own kitchen!

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