Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Set this bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
3️⃣ Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, beat together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4️⃣ Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Use a fork to flatten each cookie slightly and create a criss-cross pattern on top.
5️⃣ Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges.
Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6️⃣ Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
While the cookies cool, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and butter until smooth and creamy.
7️⃣ Assemble the Cookies:
Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of the peanut butter filling on the flat side of one cookie.
Place another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are filled.
8️⃣ Store & Enjoy:
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Enjoy these sweet, creamy treats with a glass of milk or as an after-dinner delight!
Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies:
- Use room temperature butter for smooth mixing and to achieve the best texture.
- Don’t overbake the cookies! They should be slightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.
- Double the filling if you like your cookies extra creamy!
- Experiment with flavors: You can add chocolate chips, drizzle melted chocolate on top, or sprinkle a little sea salt for an extra touch.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies:
- Irresistibly Creamy: The peanut butter filling makes these cookies even more decadent and indulgent.
- Classic Flavor with a Twist: You get the beloved peanut butter cookie with a rich, sweet center.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, or just treating yourself!
Nutritional Info (per cookie, approx.):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbs: ~30g
- Fat: ~14g
- Fiber: ~2g
FAQ About Peanut Butter Cookies:
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the cookies, but the filling should be creamy for smooth spreading.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Once you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and then add the filling.
How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Combo: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cookies.
- Salted Caramel Peanut Butter: Add a touch of caramel sauce to the filling or sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped peanuts or other nuts to the cookie dough for extra crunch.
Perfect For:
- Baking with kids
- Peanut butter lovers
- Gift giving (they make a great homemade gift!)
- Snacktime or dessert
- Cookie swaps
Sweet, Creamy, and Perfectly Peanut Buttery:
These Peanut Butter Cookies with Creamy Filling are the kind of treat that turns a regular day into something special. Soft, chewy, and packed with that perfect peanut butter flavor, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Made it? Snap a pic and tag us—we can’t wait to see your peanut butter perfection!
