Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies: A Sweet Nostalgia

Introduction

If you’re anything like me, peanut butter is a pantry staple that holds a special place in your heart. There’s just something magical about the creamy, nutty goodness that makes everything better! Enter Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies—an indulgent twist on the classic peanut butter cookie that will have you reminiscing about childhood treats. With a delightful combination of peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, and chocolate, these cookies are pure joy in every bite.

What makes these cookies truly special is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The soft, chewy cookie envelops a luscious center of marshmallow fluff, creating an ooey-gooey surprise that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are bound to impress!

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy afternoon spent rummaging through my grandmother’s old recipe box. I remembered her making peanut butter and marshmallow fluff sandwiches for us as kids, and I couldn’t resist the urge to recreate that nostalgic flavor in cookie form. The first bite transported me back to those sunny afternoons, and now I can’t imagine a cookie platter without these delightful treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Soft and Chewy: The combination of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff creates a wonderfully soft cookie that melts in your mouth.
• Nostalgic Flavors: This recipe combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, reminding you of classic childhood treats.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor!

Imagine serving these delightful cookies at your next gathering, watching everyone’s faces light up as they discover the gooey surprise inside!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 10 minutes bake, 10 minutes cooling)
• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 160, Protein: 4g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing that rich, nutty flavor we all adore.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed: For a hint of caramel sweetness and a chewy texture.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances the flavors and adds sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, giving the cookies structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing the right texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup marshmallow fluff: The gooey center that takes these cookies to the next level!
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional): For added sweetness and flavor—who can resist chocolate?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive into baking these delightful cookies? Let’s get started!

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
2. Prepare Your Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Add the Egg and Vanilla:

• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; this keeps the cookies tender!

1. Scoop the Dough:

• Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

1. Create the Marshmallow Center:

• Press your thumb gently into the center of each dough ball to create a small well. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of marshmallow fluff into each well.

1. Cover with Dough:

• Take a small amount of dough and flatten it out, then carefully place it over the marshmallow fluff to cover it completely. You want to ensure that the fluff is sealed within the cookie!

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a bit soft, but they’ll set as they cool.

1. Cool:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!

How to Serve

These Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for any occasion! Here are some fun serving suggestions:

• Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter for parties or gatherings. They’re sure to steal the show!
• Milk and Cookies: Serve alongside a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat that everyone will love.
• Cookie Sandwiches: Get creative by making cookie sandwiches with a scoop of ice cream in the middle—yum!
• Gift Packaging: Package these cookies in cute bags or boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out—this will keep them soft and chewy!
3. Storing Cookies: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay deliciously soft!
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
5. Customize: Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins, like chopped nuts or different flavored chips!

Recipe Variations

Feel like trying something different? Here are some fun variations you can explore:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies: Substitute ½ cup of flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy for added texture in every bite.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative that’s still delicious!
• Fluffernutter Bars: Press the dough into a baking dish instead of making cookies for a chewy cookie bar version. Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies with delightful options:

• Coffee or Tea: The rich flavors of these cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the peanut butter flavor perfectly.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to properly store and freeze your cookies:

• Storing Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll remain soft and tasty!
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Freezing Cookie Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Special Equipment

Here are a few tools that can help make your baking experience easier:

• Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer is great for creaming the butter and sugars effortlessly.
• Cookie Scoop: This ensures your cookies are evenly sized, which helps them bake uniformly.
• Parchment Paper: This keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy—every baker’s best friend!

FAQ Section

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit oilier, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly.

How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

What if my marshmallow fluff leaks out during baking?
Don’t worry if it happens! Just make sure to seal the fluff well with the dough before baking. If it leaks a bit, it’s still delicious!

Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Mixing in chocolate chips will enhance the flavor and make these cookies even more delightful.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try making these Fluffernutter Peanut Butter Cookies! They’re a nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will be a hit with everyone. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your delicious creations and share them with me on social media—I love seeing your baking adventures! Happy baking!

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