Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream-Filled Sandwich Cookies

If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, this recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream-Filled Sandwich Cookies will hit the spot. With the perfect blend of rich chocolate cookies and a creamy peanut butter filling, they’re decadent, satisfying, and easy to make at home. These cookies have a soft, cake-like texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy, sweet peanut butter filling in between. Let’s dive into the details, including everything you need to know from ingredients to tips for perfect results, along with nutrition facts and storage tips.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookies:

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water

For the Peanut Butter Cream Filling:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a lighter filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Batter

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This helps the dry ingredients to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
  2. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.
  3. Add in the vanilla extract and water, and mix until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently after each addition to avoid overmixing. The batter should be smooth but not too thick.
  5. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, drop tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This will give them room to spread while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake each batch for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed.
  2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Cream Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add the heavy cream if you want a lighter, more spreadable consistency, and beat until well incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter cream filling onto the flat side of one chocolate cookie.
  2. Top with another cookie, pressing down gently to make a sandwich.
  3. Repeat until all cookies are paired up with their creamy peanut butter filling.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Your delicious chocolate peanut butter cream-filled sandwich cookies are ready to be enjoyed. They’re best served with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on one cookie sandwich)

Calories: 220
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 140mg

Please note these values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different nut butter?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the creamy peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even a seed butter if you prefer a different flavor or have an allergy.

Q: Can I make the cookies in advance?
A: Yes, you can bake the chocolate cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. However, it’s best to prepare the peanut butter filling fresh to keep it creamy.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and ensure that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
A: Yes, mini chocolate chips add a delightful texture and extra chocolate flavor to the peanut butter filling. Just fold them in at the end of mixing.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Measure Carefully: For baking success, ensure your measurements are accurate, especially with flour and cocoa powder. Scooping directly from the bag can result in compacted measurements; instead, spoon the ingredients into your measuring cup and level off.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and butter sit at room temperature before starting. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smooth, cohesive batter.
  • Sift the Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder can be lumpy, which may affect the texture of your cookies. Sifting it with the flour will help ensure a smooth batter.
  • Keep an Eye on the Bake Time: Chocolate cookies can be a bit tricky, as they don’t show clear signs of doneness. A slight puff and set edges are your indicators; remove them promptly to avoid overbaking.
  • Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the filling or add a drizzle of melted chocolate to the top for an extra-special presentation.

Storage Tips

  1. Room Temperature: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Because of the cream filling, they might become soft if stored too long at room temperature.
  2. Refrigeration: To keep them fresher longer, place the cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
  3. Freezing: You can freeze the unassembled chocolate cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Prepare the peanut butter filling fresh when ready to assemble.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream-Filled Sandwich Cookies are a treat that’s sure to impress and satisfy. They strike a beautiful balance of rich chocolate flavor with a creamy peanut butter filling that’s hard to resist. From making sure you get the measurements right to keeping a close eye on the bake time, each step contributes to the final flavor and texture that make these cookies a standout. Whether you make them for a holiday party, a bake sale, or just a cozy treat at home, these cookies are sure to please. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them a few days later or make them ahead of time for any occasion.