If you’re craving a soft and chewy cookie that bursts with rich, bold peanut butter flavor, you’re not alone. These homemade Nutter Butter cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich cookie and are perfect for dessert trays, lunchboxes, or everyday snacking. Unlike the store-bought version, this homemade recipe delivers a pillowy texture with a luscious, creamy peanut butter filling sandwiched between two soft cookies.

The original Nutter Butter, created by Nabisco, is a crunchy, peanut-shaped cookie that’s loved across generations. But what if you could make a soft and chewy version at home — one that’s just as nostalgic but even more satisfying? These cookies achieve just that with a combination of pantry staples and a simple technique that transforms the ordinary into something truly indulgent. You can learn more about the origins of the Nutter Butter and how it became a cookie aisle staple.

In this recipe, we use ingredients like creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and unsalted butter to achieve the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and saltiness. For anyone looking to take their baking game to the next level, understanding the creaming method — used in this recipe — is essential. This method ensures your cookie dough incorporates just the right amount of air, resulting in a soft, tender cookie texture. For more inspiration, check out these homemade cookie ideas that are both easy and delicious.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, these soft and chewy nutter butter cookies are easy to master and hard to resist. Once you taste the final result, you may never go back to store-bought again.

What Are Nutter Butter Cookies?

Nutter Butter cookies are an iconic treat made famous by Nabisco, known for their distinct peanut shape and creamy peanut butter filling. The traditional version features a crisp texture, but this homemade soft and chewy version offers something entirely different — a tender bite and melt-in-your-mouth flavor that truly satisfies any peanut butter craving.

These cookies combine two elements: a soft, buttery peanut butter cookie and a rich, whipped filling that’s both sweet and salty. Each bite offers layers of flavor that make them a perfect snack for both kids and adults. The appeal of homemade cookies lies in their freshness — no preservatives, no additives, just pure, nutty goodness crafted in your own kitchen.

To understand where this cookie gained its fame, you can explore the history of the sandwich cookie, a type of dessert that pairs two cookies around a sweet filling. The concept dates back decades, but it’s the Nutter Butter that perfected the peanut butter version. If you want to make your own soft-baked creations, these easy baking recipes offer inspiration for mastering cookies with different fillings, shapes, and textures.

This soft and chewy nutter butter cookie recipe captures everything you love about the original, but with an irresistibly tender texture and homemade taste. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a lunchbox treat, or a cozy afternoon snack, they’re bound to become a favorite for anyone who loves peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients Breakdown & Why They Matter

Every great cookie starts with the right ingredients, and this soft and chewy Nutter Butter cookie recipe is no exception. Each component plays a critical role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential for homemade baking success.

Cookie Base Ingredients

Creamy peanut butter: This is the heart of the cookie. It delivers bold peanut flavor and a moist, chewy texture. For best results, avoid natural peanut butter, which can cause separation and dryness. Learn more about the characteristics of peanut butter and why consistency matters in baking.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter blends smoothly into the dough, creating a tender crumb and a rich flavor. Using unsalted butter allows for better control of the overall saltiness.
Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and deepens the flavor with subtle molasses notes. It’s key to getting that chewy texture these cookies are known for.

Granulated sugar: Helps with spreading and provides structure, balancing out the softness added by the brown sugar.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth to the peanut butter.
Large eggs: Bind the dough and add richness. They also contribute to a slightly puffier cookie that holds the filling well.

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, flour gives cookies their shape. Check out the science behind all-purpose flour and how it affects baked goods.
Baking soda & baking powder: These leavening agents work together to help the cookies rise slightly and stay soft in the center. If you’re curious, explore how baking soda differs from baking powder in cookie recipes.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the peanut butter flavor and balances sweetness.

Peanut Butter Filling Ingredients

Creamy peanut butter: Used again in the filling for consistency of flavor and texture.
Unsalted butter: When whipped with peanut butter, it creates a silky, creamy texture.
Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and stability to the filling. Its fine texture ensures a smooth, spreadable mixture.

Milk: Used to adjust consistency. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve a spreadable (or pipeable) filling.

Looking for more creative combinations? Try experimenting with cookie doughs from these lunchbox dessert ideas for inspiration.

The balance of these ingredients — softening agents, structure builders, and flavor enhancers — is what sets this recipe apart. With this solid foundation, you’re ready to move on to making the dough and creating the perfect homemade cookie.

How to Make the Cookie Dough Step-by-Step

Making the dough for these soft and chewy Nutter Butter cookies is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure you get that perfect soft texture and peanut butter richness in every bite.

Cream the fats and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed until light, fluffy, and fully combined. This step introduces air into the dough, which contributes to the cookie’s soft texture. Mastering the creaming method in baking is key to achieving consistency in homemade cookies.
Add the wet ingredients
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth. The eggs help bind the ingredients together and create structure without making the cookies dense.

Mix the dry ingredients separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leaveners and prevents clumping when added to the wet mixture.
Combine wet and dry
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix — this can make your cookies tough instead of chewy.
Shape the dough
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball, then shape into an oval to mimic the look of traditional Nutter Butters. For uniform results, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.

Press and pattern
Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern onto each cookie or lightly flatten them with your palm. This helps the cookies bake evenly.

Check out these homemade cookies on Pinterest for shaping ideas that make your cookies look bakery-quality.

Now that your dough is ready and shaped, it’s time to bake.

Baking Instructions & Texture Tips

The baking process is where the magic happens — this is where your soft Nutter Butter cookies take shape and set up with that irresistible chewy bite.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Use an oven thermometer if possible for accuracy.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with even baking.

Bake cookies for 8–10 minutes
Watch the edges closely. They should be just lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Don’t overbake — cookies continue to bake from residual heat once removed from the oven.
Cool completely on a wire rack
Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps set the structure without losing that soft interior.

For tips on cookie storage and longevity, these cookie storage hacks will help keep them fresh longer.

Proper baking ensures your cookies are golden on the outside and tender in the center — the perfect canvas for your creamy filling.

Making the Peanut Butter Filling

This dreamy filling is what takes these cookies from good to unforgettable. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and intensely peanut buttery — everything you want in a sandwich cookie filling.

Beat the base
In a clean bowl, beat together creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter until fully blended and smooth. Use a hand or stand mixer for the fluffiest texture.

Add powdered sugar gradually
Slowly mix in powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time. This prevents clumping and allows you to control the texture.
Adjust consistency with milk
Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk, starting with less and increasing as needed. The goal is to reach a consistency that is easily spreadable but not runny.
Optional flavor twist
Want to enhance the flavor? Try a pinch of cinnamon, a drop of maple extract, or a tiny splash of vanilla for a creative spin.

For more ways to customize fillings and frostings, explore easy baking recipes that offer alternative ideas for cookie pairings.

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to bring your cookies together.

Assembling the Cookie Sandwiches

Turning your individual cookies into Nutter Butter sandwiches is the most satisfying step — and the most fun.

Cool cookies completely before assembling. If they’re even slightly warm, the filling will melt and slide out.
Spread or pipe the filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per cookie, or as desired.
Top with a matching cookie and press gently until the filling spreads to the edges.

Chill for clean edges
For a neater look, refrigerate the assembled cookies for 10–15 minutes. This firms up the filling and makes them easier to stack or package.

Use cookie sets from these lunchbox dessert ideas for inspiration on presentation and portion size.

These cookies are now fully assembled, irresistible, and ready to enjoy or gift.

Storage Tips & Shelf Life

To keep your soft Nutter Butter cookies as fresh and chewy as the day you made them, follow these smart storage strategies:

Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Refrigerator: For a firmer texture and longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 10 days.

Freezing:
- Freeze unassembled cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze assembled cookies for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Looking for tips to preserve baked goods longer? These cookie storage tips are a great resource for maximizing freshness.

Proper storage means you’ll always have a chewy, peanut buttery treat on hand whenever cravings hit.

Flavor Variations & Fun Add-ins

This base recipe is versatile — try these fun ways to personalize your cookies and surprise your taste buds.

Chocolate-dipped: Dip one side of the finished cookie sandwich in melted chocolate and let it harden.
Chunky peanut butter: Swap in chunky peanut butter for extra texture and crunch.

Rolled edges: After assembling, roll the cookie edges in mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or crushed pretzels.
Nutella filling: Swap half the peanut butter in the filling for Nutella for a chocolatey twist.
Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. See how different types of flour affect texture.

Need more ways to get creative with cookies? These Pinterest cookie ideas are perfect for unique combinations.

Experimenting with add-ins makes each batch unique and tailored to your favorite flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These soft Nutter Butter cookies aren’t just for snacking — they shine in all kinds of settings.

Dessert platters at parties or gatherings
Lunchbox treats for school or work
Holiday cookie exchanges
Gift boxes with personalized packaging
After-dinner dessert with milk or coffee

For more creative uses, explore lunchbox dessert ideas that feature sweet treats just like this.

Serve them stacked, wrapped, or plated — they’re always a hit.

Tips for the Best Homemade Nutter Butters

Mastering the little details can make a big difference in your final results. Keep these tips in mind:

Do not overbake — cookies will firm up as they cool
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and over-browning

Chill dough if too soft before shaping
Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and consistent baking
Let cookies cool fully before assembling to avoid melting the filling

These small steps ensure a professional-quality result every time you bake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for cookie success:

Using natural peanut butter — oil separation affects texture

Overmixing the dough — leads to tough cookies
Adding too much milk to the filling — makes it runny and unworkable

Baking too long — results in dry, crumbly cookies instead of soft and chewy ones

Follow the method closely and you’ll avoid these common issues easily.

FAQs

Can you freeze Nutter Butter cookies?
Yes, both assembled and unassembled cookies can be frozen. For best results, wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What peanut butter is best for baking cookies?
Use shelf-stable creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. Avoid natural types as they separate and can make the dough greasy.

Why are my peanut butter cookies dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Also, using too much flour or natural peanut butter can dry out the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for 1:1 swaps.

What’s the best way to make the filling pipeable?
Use slightly less milk and beat the filling until fluffy. Test consistency before filling — it should hold shape when piped.

Soft & Chewy Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Everyone Will Love