There’s nothing quite like biting into a cookie that perfectly marries nostalgia and indulgence. As I pulled these Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies from the oven, the rich aroma of melting chocolate and nutty peanut butter instantly took me back to childhood campfires—those sweet moments filled with laughter and gooey marshmallows. Imagine a soft, chewy peanut butter cookie, sandwiching a warm, marshmallow fluff center, finished off with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
The best part? These cookies are as customizable as your cravings. Whether you choose to mix in some dark chocolate or sprinkle in crushed graham crackers, each bite is an opportunity to create your perfect treat. From lunchboxes to dinner parties, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth in the house. So, let’s dive into this simple yet delectable recipe that guarantees a touch of comfort in every bite!
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite transports you back to summer campfires with its gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate.
Endlessly Customizable: Whether you prefer dark chocolate or crushed graham crackers, tailor these cookies to suit your taste.
Easy to Make: The straightforward process keeps it fun, even for beginner bakers.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as lunchbox treats or a standout dessert for gatherings, you’ll always impress.
Alluring Texture: Enjoy the soft, chewy cookies paired with a luscious, sticky center that leaves you wanting more.
These cookies are a delightful way to indulge your sweet cravings while adding a personal twist!
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Provides the essential nutty flavor and moist texture; you can swap it for almond or cashew butter if desired.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the dough and ensures the cookies are tender; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps achieve the chewy texture; consider using coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and enhances the caramel notes; dark brown sugar will deepen the flavor.
- Large Egg – Binds the mixture and helps the cookies rise; a flax egg can work for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; no direct substitutes, but vanilla paste can make it even more aromatic.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for these delightful cookies; replace it with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter cookie; avoid substitutions here.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; table salt is fine if that’s what you have on hand.
For the Filling
- Marshmallow Fluff – Delivers that gooey sweetness in the middle; you can substitute with homemade marshmallow if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (for filling) – Additional deliciousness and warmth to the filling; same substitutions apply as above.
- Milk Chocolate Chips – Offers a rich chocolatey flavor; feel free to replace them with dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a twist.
These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are the perfect blend of flavors, allowing you to reminisce about childhood treats while also customizing them to suit your taste!
How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
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Cream together the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This will add air for a delightful texture.
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Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is combined and smooth. The egg helps the cookies rise, creating a lovely chewy base.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, helping your cookies to rise perfectly.
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Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms—I find folding my spatula gently helps to maintain the fluffiness.
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Scoop tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound slightly with a fork to encourage even baking.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking; you want them soft and chewy!
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Cool the cookies for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack to complete cooling. This helps keep their softness intact.
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Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals until smooth. Stir well after each interval to ensure it doesn’t burn.
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Assemble your cookies by spreading 1 tablespoon of marshmallow fluff and 1 teaspoon of warmed peanut butter on one cookie. Drizzle the melted chocolate over this before topping with another cookie. Press gently to let the filling ooze out a bit.
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Allow the cookies to set for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or chill them in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help everything meld together beautifully.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on the filling for an extra s’mores touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
- Room Temperature: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, you can store cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re properly wrapped to avoid drying out.
- Freezer: Assembled cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and gooey.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies?
To create a memorable meal, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness and nostalgia of your cookies.
- Cold Milk: A classic companion, the richness of cold milk contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey centers of the cookies.
- Hot Cocoa: Perfectly cozy for chilly evenings, this creamy beverage echoes the chocolatey goodness, creating a comforting pairing.
- Crushed Graham Crackers: Sprinkle these over the top of the cookies for added texture and a true s’mores feel, bringing childhood memories to life.
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert—melty ice cream complements the warm cookies perfectly.
- Coffee: A bold brew contrasts with the sweetness, balancing flavors and providing an adult twist to your nostalgic treat.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like strawberries and bananas add a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cookies and enhancing their flavors.
- Dessert Charcuterie Board: Incorporate these cookies on a dessert platter with assorted chocolates, nuts, and fruits, making for a fun and beautiful spread.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over warm cookies for an indulgent finishing touch that elevates every bite to extraordinary bliss.
- Chocolate Dip: Serve with melted chocolate for dipping that extends the deliciousness of the cookies, perfect for those who crave extra sweetness.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft and chewy, not hard, for that perfect texture.
- Chill for Firmness: If you prefer a firmer cookie, pop the assembled cookies in the fridge for a bit before serving—they’ll hold together better.
- Choose Your Chocolate: Experiment with dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a richer chocolatey taste; it balances beautifully with the peanut butter.
- Add a Twist: For an even more nostalgic s’mores flavor, mix crushed graham cracker crumbs into the cookie dough before baking.
- Freezing Tips: Assemble cookies can be frozen for up to a month—just thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying!
Variations & Substitutions for Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this beloved recipe to your taste preferences with exciting twists and substitutions!
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Nut-Free: Swap creamy peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that still packs a punch.
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Vegan Delight: Use vegan butter and a flax egg to make these cookies entirely plant-based—still delicious!
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Graham Cracker Crunch: Add crushed graham cracker crumbs directly into the cookie dough for an extra layer of s’mores flavor.
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Chocolate Mix: Experiment with a blend of dark chocolate and white chocolate chips for a delightful flavor fusion that surprises the palate.
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Marshmallow Swirl: Instead of marshmallow fluff, try using chocolate-covered marshmallows for a fun and unique twist—who doesn’t love a chocolate surprise?
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dough for a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Dried Fruit Addition: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped dates into the filling for a chewy texture and a touch of fruity sweetness.
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Coconut Bliss: Fold in toasted shredded coconut for an added layer of flavor and a delightful chewy texture that contrasts with the cookies.
These variations are sure to elevate your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies, making each batch a delicious expression of your creativity!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet nostalgia without the hassle on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Also, you can mix the marshmallow fluff with peanut butter and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and bake the chilled dough as directed. For ultimate freshness, assemble the cookies just before serving, but they can also be frozen for up to 1 month—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying for freshly made flavors.
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for creamy peanut butter that has no added sugars or oils. If you’re using butter, make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy creaming. When it comes to eggs, fresh is best, and always check for any cracks before use!
What’s the best way to store Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies?
I recommend storing your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but be sure to wrap them well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze my Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze assembled cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough seems too sticky, it might just need a little extra flour. Start by adding one tablespoon at a time, mixing well until you achieve a dough that holds its shape. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes in the fridge can help with stickiness too!
Are there any dietary considerations for Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies?
Very! If there are nut allergies in your household, consider swapping out the peanut butter for sunbutter or a similar nut-free alternative. Additionally, you can use a flax egg instead of a large egg for a vegan option, and vegan butter can easily replace the regular butter.
How long do the cookies stay fresh after baking?
Once baked, your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can stay delicious for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge. Just be gentle while handling them, as the gooey marshmallow filling could get messy!
Irresistible Peanut Butter S'mores Sandwich Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cream together the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined and smooth.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool cookies for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals until smooth.
- Assemble cookies by spreading 1 tablespoon of marshmallow fluff and 1 teaspoon of peanut butter on one cookie and drizzle melted chocolate over it before topping with another cookie.
- Allow cookies to set for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.