Indulge in the ultimate dessert mashup with these Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies. Combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter cookies with the gooey, melty goodness of s’mores, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet treats. Perfectly chewy cookies are filled with melted chocolate and marshmallow fluff, creating a delightful symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to a cozy campfire evening—minus the mosquitoes!
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making these irresistible sandwich cookies, offering detailed instructions, storage tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. With over 1,200 words of content optimized for SEO, you’ll have everything you need to create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of homemade cookie magic!
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
Before we begin, here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The nutty richness of peanut butter pairs beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate and marshmallow.
- Fun and Creative: This recipe puts a playful spin on classic s’mores, making it perfect for parties or special occasions.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these cookies with ease.
- Customizable: Add your own flair by experimenting with different types of chocolate or toppings.
Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let’s explore the ingredients and detailed instructions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Here’s what you’ll need to create these decadent sandwich cookies:
For the Cookies:
- Creamy peanut butter: Provides a rich, nutty base that complements the sweet filling.
- Granulated sugar and light brown sugar: Sweeten the cookies while adding moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the dough together.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Baking soda and salt: Help the cookies rise slightly and balance the sweetness.
For the Filling:
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted: Adds a smooth, indulgent layer that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
- Marshmallow fluff: Delivers the gooey, sticky goodness that makes s’mores so irresistible.
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to make the most decadent Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Proper preparation is key to achieving evenly baked cookies.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper or a silicone mat, lightly grease the baking sheet with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Use a hand mixer or wooden spoon to mix until the dough is smooth and fully incorporated. The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky but easy to handle.
Pro Tip: For best results, use room-temperature ingredients. This ensures the dough comes together smoothly without clumps.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential because assembling the sandwiches with warm cookies could cause the filling to melt excessively.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Spread a thin layer of melted chocolate on the bottom of one cookie using a small spatula or the back of a spoon. Add a dollop of marshmallow fluff on top of the chocolate, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edges to prevent oozing.
Place another cookie on top, gently pressing to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies until all sandwiches are assembled.
Pro Tip: If the chocolate starts to harden, microwave it briefly to keep it smooth and spreadable.
Step 5: Set and Serve
Let the assembled cookies sit for 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set slightly. For an extra touch, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallow fluff peeking out from the edges of the cookies. This step adds a smoky, caramelized flavor reminiscent of traditional s’mores.
Serve the cookies immediately or store them for later enjoyment. Each bite offers a delightful combination of chewy cookies, melty chocolate, and gooey marshmallow fluff.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
- As a Standalone Dessert: Serve them at parties, picnics, or family gatherings for a crowd-pleasing treat.
- With Beverages: Pair them with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for a comforting combination.
- For Entertaining: Arrange them on a platter with other desserts like brownies or cupcakes for a festive dessert spread.
- With Toppings: Sprinkle crushed peanuts, sea salt, or mini chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the unassembled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Assemble the sandwiches after thawing.
Reheating:
- To soften frozen cookies, let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them for 5–10 seconds to enhance the gooeyness of the marshmallow fluff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to the cookies, though it may slightly alter their appearance. Just ensure the rest of the ingredients remain the same.
Q: Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate. Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor, while milk chocolate provides extra sweetness.
Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour (if used) with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the peanut butter and chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff?
A: Definitely! Homemade marshmallow fluff can elevate the flavor of the cookies. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to store-bought fluff for easy assembly.
Q: What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for toasting the marshmallow fluff?
A: No problem! You can skip the toasting step entirely, or place the assembled cookies under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are a celebration of nostalgia, creativity, and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With its balance of nutty, chocolatey, and gooey flavors, it’s a dessert that everyone will love.
By following the detailed instructions, storage tips, and customization ideas provided here, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity of this recipe, and treat yourself to a taste of homemade bliss anytime you’d like. Enjoy every bite of these dreamy, peanut butter-packed cookies—you deserve it!
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for cookies)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for cookies)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (for cookies)
- 1 large egg (for cookies)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for cookies)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (for cookies)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for cookies)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (for filling)
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread a thin layer of melted chocolate on the bottom of one cookie. Add a dollop of marshmallow fluff on top of the chocolate. Place another cookie on top, gently pressing to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
- Let the assembled cookies sit for 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set slightly. For an extra touch, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallow fluff peeking out from the edges.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy!