Nutter Butter cookies are classic peanut butter sandwich cookies filled with a creamy peanut butter center and shaped like little peanuts. They’re beloved for their crunchy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and iconic design. Whether you’re baking for kids, holiday platters, or just peanut butter lovers, homemade Nutter Butter-style cookies are surprisingly easy to make and taste far better than store-bought versions.
This guide covers everything you need to know: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, common mistakes, variations, storage advice, and expert insights to make perfect Nutter Butter cookies at home.
What Are Nutter Butter Cookies
Nutter Butter cookies are peanut-shaped sandwich cookies filled with peanut butter cream. Their crunchy cookie exterior contrasts perfectly with a sweet, smooth peanut butter filling. The cookie pattern—resembling a peanut—is instantly recognizable.
They’re often considered the ultimate peanut butter cookie experience because of their combination of flavor, texture, and presentation.
Why Nutter Butter Cookies Are So Popular
People love Nutter Butter cookies because:
- They have a nostalgic flavor and fun design
- Crunchy cookie pairs perfectly with creamy filling
- Peanut butter flavor is strong but balanced
- They’re versatile—great as snacks, desserts, or party treats
Ingredients for Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Nutter Butter Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugars
Beat butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add egg and vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine dry ingredients
Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 5: Shape the cookies
Roll dough into small peanut-shaped logs or ovals. Flatten slightly and use a fork to make the classic peanut pattern lines.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes until cookies are lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Making the Peanut Butter Filling
Step 1: Cream butter and peanut butter
Beat softened butter and peanut butter together until smooth.
Step 2: Add powdered sugar and vanilla
Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy. Adjust consistency with a teaspoon of milk if needed.
Step 3: Assemble cookies
Spread or pipe filling onto the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with another.
Tips for Perfect Nutter Butter Cookies
- Use creamy peanut butter in dough for a smoother texture.
- Chill dough slightly if too soft for shaping.
- Don’t overbake; cookies should remain light golden for crunch and tenderness.
- For classic peanut pattern, use a fork or knife to lightly score lines before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much flour – results in dry cookies.
- Overmixing – creates dense cookies.
- Skipping chilling – dough may spread too much.
- Adding filling while cookies are warm – filling can melt.
Variations
Chocolate-dipped Nutter Butters
Dip cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Double Peanut Butter
Add chopped peanut butter cups to the filling.
Mini Nutter Butters
Make bite-sized versions for party platters or snacks.
Salted Peanut Butter
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of cookies before baking for a flavor boost.
Storage Tips
Room temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator
Keeps filling firmer and cookies fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer
Freeze baked cookies with filling for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with milk or hot chocolate for a classic treat.
- Add to holiday cookie trays for festive presentation.
- Sandwich with chocolate ganache instead of peanut butter for a dessert variation.
Expert Tips
- Measure flour accurately to keep cookies tender.
- For extra flavor, lightly toast peanut butter before mixing.
- Use a piping bag for neat, even filling.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Nutter Butter cookies capture the nostalgia of the original but with fresher, richer flavors. Crunchy peanut-shaped cookies paired with creamy filling are perfect for peanut butter lovers, parties, or gifting. With this recipe, you can make bakery-quality Nutter Butters right in your kitchen, customizing them to your taste while keeping them fun and classic.