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I created these Chewy Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies for my son's bake sale and they've become our family's favorite treat. The combination of soft peanut butter cookies filled with creamy peanut butter cream creates pure magic in every bite. They're perfect for satisfying those intense peanut butter cravings that nothing else will fix.
What Makes These Cookies Special
These cookies are a peanut butter lover's dream come true. That perfect chewy texture combined with the smooth creamy filling makes them absolutely irresistible. I love that they come together in about 30 minutes which means we can enjoy them even on busy days. They're simple enough for beginning bakers but so good even experienced bakers keep coming back for more.
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
Here's everything you need for these amazing cookies:
- 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup each granulated and brown sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For that heavenly filling:
- 1/2 cup each butter and peanut butter
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
The quality of your peanut butter really makes a difference here.
Creating The Magic
Start by creaming your butter sugars and peanut butter until they're light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla then gradually mix in your dry ingredients. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Roll into little one inch balls then make that classic crisscross pattern with a fork it's my favorite part. Bake them at 350°F just until the edges start to turn golden about 8 to 10 minutes. While they're cooling whip up that amazing filling then sandwich it between two cookies. Pure heaven.
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Making Them Your Own
Sometimes I'll add chocolate chips to the filling or crush up some pretzels for extra crunch. You can even make them a bit healthier by using honey in the filling instead of milk. My gluten free friends love them made with their favorite flour blend they turn out just as delicious.
Keeping Them Fresh
These cookies stay perfect in an airtight container for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If you want to make them ahead you can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 3 months then just make fresh filling when you're ready to serve.
Perfect For Sharing
These sandwich cookies make the sweetest gifts. I love packaging them in pretty tins or clear bags tied with ribbon. They're always a hit at bake sales and parties everyone asks for the recipe.
Tips For Success
After making countless batches I've learned some helpful tricks. If your dough feels too soft pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Using room temperature butter instead of melted keeps them from spreading too much. And always measure carefully for the most consistent results.
Sweet Variations
Sometimes I'll switch things up using almond or cashew butter for something different. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the filling creates such interesting flavors. My kids love helping come up with new combinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why flatten cookies with a fork?
Creating the classic crisscross pattern helps the cookies bake evenly and gives them their signature look. It also ensures they're the right thickness for sandwiching.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
While creamy peanut butter works best for the filling, you can use crunchy in the cookies for added texture if desired.
- → Why sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting removes any lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy filling. This makes the cookies easier to sandwich together.
- → How do I store these cookies?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Let chilled cookies come to room temperature before serving.
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, they can be frozen assembled or separately. Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before serving.