Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters Recipe

If you have a soft spot for peanut butter treats that hit every nostalgic note, then get ready to fall in love with these Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters. These delightful sandwich cookies steal the show with their perfectly soft, peanut buttery texture paired with a creamy, dreamy filling. They’re just like the classic Nutter Butters you remember from childhood, but made from scratch in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and heaps of love. Whether you’re baking for a snack, party, or just because, these cookies bring that familiar peanut butter magic with a homemade touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create that unmistakable peanut butter cookie goodness. Each component plays its part, whether it’s in crafting the tender dough, adding that rich, nutty flavor, or creating the smooth filling that makes these cookies so special.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides a rich base and keeps the cookies tender.
• Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup for filling): The star ingredient delivering that signature peanut flavor and creamy texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus extra for topping): Adds balanced sweetness and creates a slight crunch on top.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Introduces a hint of molasses for depth and chewiness.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough together and contributes to the cookie’s softness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon for filling): Enhances flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Forms the structure of the cookies for just the right bite.
• Baking soda (3/4 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly and maintain their delicate texture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and amplifies the peanut butter flavor.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup for filling): Makes the filling smooth and sweet without graininess.
• Milk (1–2 tablespoons for filling): Adjusts the filling’s creaminess for perfect spreading consistency.

How to Make Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly without sticking. This simple step sets the foundation for perfectly baked Nutter Butters.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture in the finished cookies.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture, mixing well until everything is seamlessly combined. This adds moisture and flavor, enriching the dough with every stir.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate this into the wet ingredients, stirring just until a smooth dough forms. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so be gentle here.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Press each ball into an oval shape, then gently press a fork across the top in a classic crisscross pattern. Lightly sprinkle some granulated sugar on each cookie for a sweet, sparkling finish once baked.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until they turn a lovely light golden color around the edges. After removing them from the oven, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet so they firm up just right before adding the filling.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling

While the cookies cool, whip together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk a tablespoon at a time, beating until you reach the perfect spreadable consistency that’s rich and silky.

Step 8: Assemble Your Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters

Once the cookies are cool, spread or pipe a generous dollop of the creamy peanut butter filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, gently pressing together to create the iconic sandwich shape that makes these cookies irresistible.

How to Serve Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling a dusting of extra granulated sugar or even a few chopped peanuts on top of the filling for a little added crunch and eye-catching detail. These tiny touches make your homemade cookies feel fancy and fun without any extra fuss.

Side Dishes

Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters pair delightfully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Their rich peanut butter flavor complements creamy and cool beverages and desserts perfectly, making snack time or dessert feel like a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming treat, stack these sandwich cookies in a clear jar or wrap them in parchment tied with a ribbon for gifting. You can also sandwich them with flavored cream fillings like chocolate or honey for a fun twist that will wow friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps the cookies tender and the filling creamy without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the sandwich cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters, simply let them come to room temperature or warm gently in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This revives their soft texture without melting the filling.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

You certainly can! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to both the dough and filling, giving your Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters a nutty crunch that’s totally delicious.

What can I substitute for unsalted butter?

If you don’t have unsalted butter on hand, salted butter can work—but reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.

How do I get the classic crosshatch pattern on top?

The pattern comes from pressing a fork gently over the shaped dough in two crossing directions before baking. It’s key to shaping your cookies into ovals so the design stays crisp and iconic.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just keep in mind this might change the texture slightly, but the peanut butter flavor will still shine.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

To prevent spreading, make sure your butter and peanut butter aren’t too melted. Chilling the dough before baking also helps the cookies hold their shape and keeps that perfect ovoid form.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Homemade Copycat Nutter Butters, you’ll understand why they have such a devoted following. They combine the warm nostalgia of a well-loved cookie with the satisfaction of baking from scratch with simple ingredients. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking a few for yourself, these peanut butter sandwich cookies will quickly become a household favorite. So grab your mixing bowl and peanut butter jar—delicious memories await!

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