Homemade Nutter Butters

These Homemade Nutter Butters bring the beloved peanut butter flavor of store-bought cookies into your kitchen, but with an even more delicious twist. Perfect for snack time, dessert, or any gathering, these treats are easy to make and offer a delightful balance of salty and sweet. With creamy peanut butter filling sandwiched between soft cookies, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: Experience the rich and creamy taste of peanut butter that outshines store-bought options.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a bake sale, party, or just a cozy night at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the filling ingredients to suit your personal taste.
• Fun to Share: These sandwich cookies make great gifts or treats for loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these Homemade Nutter Butters, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Silicone spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Piping bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the cookie dough quick and efficient, ensuring an even blend of ingredients.
• Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping down the bowl, it helps incorporate all ingredients without leaving any behind.
• Cookie scoop: Provides consistent portion sizes for uniform cookies that look great on the plate.

Ingredients

These homemade Nutter Butters have all the salty-sweet peanut butter flavor of the store bought treat but are way tastier.

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (we recommend Jiff or Skippy!)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Homemade Nutter Butters

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat together the peanut butter, butter, and brown sugar on low speed until combined.
2. Gradually increase to medium-high speed and beat until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
3. Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
4. Add in the egg and vanilla. Beat until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the following dry ingredients:
– 1 cup of flour
– 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1/2 tsp of salt

Beat on low speed until just combined; ensure no streaks of flour remain.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Use a 1-ounce cookie scoop to portion out equal amounts of dough:
1. Shape each portion into flat oval discs by pinching the middle so they resemble peanuts.
2. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Use a fork to create crosshatches on each circular end.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake for 9 to 10 minutes until puffed up, set around edges, but still soft in the middle. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

While cooling, prepare the filling:
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine remaining peanut butter, powdered sugar, three tablespoons of heavy cream, and another half teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Beat on low speed until smooth; avoid overmixing as this can split your cream.
3. If too thick, add remaining tablespoon of cream as needed. Transfer filling to a piping bag.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Match cooled cookies into pairs:
1. Pipe about two teaspoons worth of filling onto one half.
2. Sandwich it together with another half.
3. Repeat with remaining cookies.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Nutter Butters!

How to Serve Homemade Nutter Butters

These delicious homemade Nutter Butters are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Here are some fun and creative ways to serve them.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the peanut butter flavor. The creamy texture of milk complements the cookies perfectly.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Stack two cookies with your favorite ice cream in between for a delightful dessert sandwich that everyone will love.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced apples or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty cookies. The sweetness of the fruit balances the flavors beautifully.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these treats with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The comforting flavors make for a cozy afternoon snack.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Place them on a dessert platter at your next gathering. They are sure to be a hit among guests, adding a homemade touch to any event.

How to Perfect Homemade Nutter Butters

Making the perfect homemade Nutter Butters is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cookie game.

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps in achieving a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined for a tender bake.
• Chill the dough if necessary – If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps retain shape.
• Watch baking time closely – Remove cookies from the oven when they’re set around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect texture.
• Experiment with fillings – Try different fillings like chocolate ganache or flavored creams for unique variations on classic Nutter Butters.
• Store properly – Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Nutter Butters

Pairing side dishes with your homemade Nutter Butters can create a delightful snack spread. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in a glass for a nutritious complement to sweet treats.
3. Cheese Platter – Include some mild cheeses like brie or cheddar; their creamy textures pair well with the cookies.
4. Nut Mix – A blend of almonds, cashews, and peanuts provides crunch and enhances peanut butter flavor.
5. Veggie Sticks – Carrots and celery sticks offer a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These add elegance and decadence, making them an excellent pairing for dessert lovers.
7. Mini Pancakes – Serve small pancakes drizzled with syrup as an innovative side that echoes breakfast flavors.
8. Smoothies – A berry or banana smoothie can refresh and balance out the sweetness of your homemade goodies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Nutter Butters can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision. This ensures your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Always chill as directed in the recipe.
• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients mix better, helping create a fluffy dough. Let eggs and butter sit out before you start.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies. Baking too long can lead to dry cookies; they should be set but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Nutter Butters

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• For best results, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating Homemade Nutter Butters

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Homemade Nutter Butters.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies added texture and flavor!

How can I customize my Homemade Nutter Butters?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra sweetness.

What is the best way to store my cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long do these cookies last?

Homemade Nutter Butters will last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months frozen.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking!

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Nutter Butters are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various fillings or toppings to suit your taste. They make a fantastic treat for any occasion, so why not give this recipe a try?