Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Double the Peanut Butter: Both the cookies and the filling are infused with peanut butter, offering a rich and satisfying flavor in every bite.

• Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies are baked to perfection, ensuring a soft and chewy consistency that complements the creamy filling.

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1 cup butter flavored shortening

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 eggs

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 3 cups confectioners' sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Cookie Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

   • Add vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.

   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamy mixture, mixing well.

3. Shape and Bake Cookies:

   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

   • Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.

   • Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are golden.

   • Allow cookies to cool on wire racks.

4. Prepare Filling:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble Sandwich Cookies:

   • Spread the filling on the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie to form a sandwich.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 30 sandwich cookies.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes.

• Cook Time: 7-8 minutes per batch.

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, including cooling and assembly.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the assembled cookies for an added layer of flavor.

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped peanuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.

• Flavor Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder into the cookie dough for a unique taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What type of peanut butter works best for this recipe?

Creamy, no-stir peanut butter is ideal as it provides a smooth texture and consistent flavor.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the texture and spread of the cookies due to its oil separation.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the dough is properly chilled before baking and avoid overmixing the ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Is it necessary to use a fork to flatten the cookies?

Using a fork creates the classic crisscross pattern and helps the cookies bake evenly, but it's not mandatory.

How can I make the filling fluffier?

Beat the filling ingredients longer and consider adding a bit more milk to achieve a lighter consistency.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and add texture.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?

No, due to the peanut butter content, these cookies are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies.

Can I use this recipe to make smaller or larger cookies?

Yes, adjust the size of the dough balls accordingly, but remember to modify the baking time as needed.

What's the best way to store leftover filling?

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are a timeless treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with a delightful creamy filling. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Enjoy the process of baking and, most importantly, savor every bite of these delicious homemade cookies.