If you’re a fan of peanut butter and classic cookies, you’ll love homemade Nutter Butter cookies. This recipe transforms the beloved store-bought treat into a homemade delight that’s not only more delicious but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just want a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
To make these irresistible cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: additional granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions for Perfect Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the two together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Sugars, Eggs, and Vanilla
Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Once the sugars are fully incorporated, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. If you prefer, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to flatten each cookie slightly and create the classic crisscross pattern.
6. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy these homemade Nutter Butter cookies with a glass of milk or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
- Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and the best texture.
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for the best consistency. Chunky peanut butter can be used if you prefer a bit more texture in your cookies.
- Storage: Store your homemade Nutter Butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Homemade Nutter Butter cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter in a fresh, homemade treat. Whether for a special occasion or just a fun baking project, these cookies are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and start baking—these cookies are bound to become a household favorite!
Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or cookie tin for an appealing presentation. Add a few decorative touches like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pairings: Serve your homemade Nutter Butter cookies with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or a warm mug of hot cocoa. They also pair well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Serving Size: For a casual gathering, offer cookies in a basket or bowl with tongs for easy grabbing. For more formal occasions, consider placing cookies on individual dessert plates or napkins.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store your homemade Nutter Butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. To maintain their crispness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.
- Avoiding Staleness: To prevent the cookies from becoming stale, ensure they are completely cooled before storing. For added freshness, you can include a slice of bread in the container, which will help absorb excess moisture.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their original texture and enhance the peanut butter flavor.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Nutter Butter cookies at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or after a few days of storage.
1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit more texture in your cookies. Just keep in mind that it may alter the smooth consistency of the cookies slightly. For a more traditional Nutter Butter texture, creamy peanut butter is recommended.
2. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
To make dairy-free Nutter Butter cookies, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil. Ensure that the peanut butter you use is also free from added dairy products. Check the labels of all ingredients to avoid hidden dairy.
3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Homemade Nutter Butter cookies will stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. After mixing, shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake the frozen dough balls directly, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.