Name: Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-487393H15M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the cookies:; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; For the filling:; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1–2 tbsp milk or cream; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are packed with peanut butter flavor and deliver the perfect balance of soft texture and creamy filling. They’re easy to make, fun to assemble, and store well for later. You’ll love how they look like a bakery-style treat while being simple enough to whip up at home. The filling adds an extra level of indulgence that sets these cookies apart.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:

Unsalted butter, softened
Creamy peanut butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

For the filling:

Creamy peanut butter
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat together butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Scoop dough by rounded teaspoons or tablespoons and roll into balls. Place on baking sheets, spacing evenly.
Flatten each ball slightly with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are just set.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
While cookies cool, make the filling: beat together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then mix in milk or cream a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Once cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe filling onto the flat side of half the cookies.
Top with remaining cookies to create sandwiches.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20 sandwich cookies.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
Assembly Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40–50 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Dipped: Dip half of each sandwich in melted chocolate and let it set for a fun twist.
Chunky Style: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in both cookies and filling.
Add a Jam Layer: Add a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam to make them taste like a PB&J.
Mini Sandwiches: Make smaller cookies for bite-sized treats.
Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for an allergy-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookies a day in advance and fill them when ready to serve or store them assembled in the fridge.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but the texture may be slightly looser and less stable. Stir it well before using.

What kind of filling can I use besides peanut butter?

You can use chocolate ganache, marshmallow fluff, Nutella, or cream cheese frosting for variety.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help control spread and maintain a nice shape.

Can I use this recipe for cut-out cookies?

No, this dough is too soft for cut-outs. Stick with drop-style cookies for best results.

What’s the best way to apply the filling?

A piping bag gives a neat and even layer, but spreading with a butter knife works just as well.

Can I make the cookies softer or crispier?

Bake a minute less for softer cookies or a minute longer for crispier edges.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Absolutely. They hold up well and look great packaged in boxes or jars.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, scoop the dough into balls and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Do I need a mixer for this recipe?

A hand or stand mixer is recommended for the best texture, especially when creaming the butter and sugar.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies are a classic treat taken to the next level with rich, creamy filling and soft, chewy cookies. They’re simple to prepare, fun to customize, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Whether you serve them as a lunchbox surprise or a party dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy every peanut butter craving.