Introduction to Homemade Nutter Butters
When you're craving a delicious cookie that balances the sweet and salty flavors of peanut butter, look no further than homemade Nutter Butters. While you might associate these delightful treats with a quick trip to the store, making them at home not only satisfies your taste buds, but also offers a few crucial perks.
Why Choose Homemade Nutter Butters?
Crafting your own Nutter Butters allows you to control the ingredients. You can opt for high-quality peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, you can customize the cookie's texture—bake them softer or crunchier based on your preference. It’s an opportunity to make them your own!
Moreover, homemade Nutter Butters are perfect for sharing with friends or family, making them ideal for gatherings or special occasions. Remember, there’s something irresistibly satisfying about creating a treat from scratch. As you bake, the tantalizing aroma of warm peanut butter cookies fills your kitchen, making it a comforting experience.
So, why wait? Dive into this homemade recipe and discover the joy of treating yourself to freshly baked Nutter Butters! For more inspiration on customizing your baking creations, check out this guide from the American Baking Guild.
Ingredients for Homemade Nutter Butters
When you're ready to whip up a batch of delicious homemade Nutter Butters, gathering your ingredients is the first step. Here's what you'll need!
What you'll need for the cookies
For the cookies, we'll combine a mix of familiar ingredients that will create that perfect peanut butter flavor. Here’s the list:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (brands like Jif or Skippy work wonderfully)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg, also at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
What you'll need for the peanut butter filling
The star of the show is the creamy filling that will glue your cookies together. Gather these ingredients:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (to adjust the sweetness and texture)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering treat that will remind you of the beloved classic! For tips on baking tools, check out this baking essentials guide.
Preparing Homemade Nutter Butters
Making homemade Nutter Butters is a delightful process that not only fills your kitchen with inviting, nutty aromas but also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Let's dive into the steps to create these delicious treats!
Gather and measure the ingredients
Before we start mixing and baking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready and precisely measured. For these cookies, you’ll need:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the peanut butter filling:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Having everything in one place makes the process smoother, trust me!
Make the cookie dough
Once your ingredients are measured, it’s time to make the cookie dough. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the peanut butter, unsalted butter, and brown sugar on low speed. Gradually increase to medium-high and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about a minute.
Next, scrape down the sides of the bowl and add in the egg and vanilla. Mix until combined. Finally, gently add your flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt, and mix on low speed until there are no streaks of flour left. This dough should feel soft and inviting!
Shape and bake the cookies
Using a 1-ounce cookie scoop, portion out equal amounts of dough and shape them into flat oval discs, pinching the middle to create the beloved peanut shape. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have room to breathe—about 2 inches apart. Use a fork to create the iconic crosshatches on either end.
Bake the cookies for about 9-10 minutes or until puffed up and slightly firm around the edges. As they cool, you’ll notice they’ll still be a bit soft in the center—this is perfect for a delightful bite!
Prepare the peanut butter filling
While the cookies cool, take a moment to whip up the filling. Using the same stand mixer, blend the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream until it’s silky smooth. If it feels thick, just add another tablespoon of cream. Once ready, transfer the filling into a piping bag for easy assembly.
Assemble the Nutter Butters
Now for the fun part! Match up your cooled cookies into pairs and pipe about two teaspoons of filling onto the bottom of one cookie. Sandwich it with the other half and press gently to hold it in place. Repeat with all your cookies, and relish in the satisfaction of your homemade Nutter Butters!
These treats are perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet gift. Enjoy every bite!
Variations on Homemade Nutter Butters
Adding chocolate to the filling
For a rich twist on your homemade Nutter Butters, consider incorporating chocolate into the filling. Simply melt some dark or milk chocolate and mix it with the peanut butter filling for a decadent, chocolaty flavor. You can even sprinkle mini chocolate chips for added texture. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the cookies more visually appealing!
Experimenting with different nut butters
Feel free to explore other nut butters to shake things up! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can give your homemade Nutter Butters a unique spin. Each nut butter carries its own flavor profile – for instance, almond butter provides a subtle sweetness, while cashew butter offers creaminess that's hard to resist.
Making them gluten-free
If you're catering to a gluten-free crowd, swapping out traditional flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend works wonders. Just ensure it’s a brand that mimics the properties of wheat flour closely (like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour). With this small change, everyone can enjoy a delicious batch of homemade Nutter Butters!
Baking tips for Homemade Nutter Butters
Tips for perfect cookie texture
To achieve irresistibly chewy cookies, ensure you don't overmix the dough after adding the flour. This prevents gluten development, which can lead to tough cookies. Keep an eye on your baking time; they should be set yet soft in the center. If you prefer a crisper texture, simply bake them a few minutes longer until the edges are golden brown!
Smoothing out the filling
For a creamy filling, start with softened ingredients. Blend the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and heavy cream on low speed; this keeps the mixture from turning gritty. If the filling feels too thick, just add a bit more cream until you reach your desired consistency. Using a piping bag makes it easy to achieve a smooth, even layer, resulting in beautifully sandwiched homemade Nutter Butters.
Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Nutter Butters
Perfect Pairings for Snacks
Serving homemade Nutter Butters can be a delightful experience! Consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk for that classic combo. For a twist, try them alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea; the flavors blend beautifully. Craving something savory? Serve these cookies with slices of Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a unique balance of flavors. They also shine as toppings for ice cream sundaes—add some chocolate syrup for extra indulgence!
Storing and Sharing Tips
To keep your homemade Nutter Butters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the fridge, where they can last for two weeks. Perfect for sharing! They make great gifts—just package them in a cute box with a ribbon, or even share them at your next weekend gathering. For more tips on baking and sharing, check out this guide on cookie storage. Enjoy your delightful creations!
Time Breakdown for Homemade Nutter Butters
Preparation Time
The preparation time for these delicious homemade Nutter Butters is about 45 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing, and shaping the cookie dough—a perfect opportunity to get your kitchen smelling like peanut butter!
Baking Time
Once you've shaped your cookies, pop them in the oven for around 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the middle. A quick tip: If you like a crunchier texture, consider baking for a few more minutes.
Total Time
All in all, you’ll need about 1 hour to create these dreamy homemade treats. In little time, you’ll have a batch of delightful cookies ready to enjoy with friends or a cozy night in!
Nutritional Information for Homemade Nutter Butters
When indulging in these delightful homemade Nutter Butters, it's good to know what you're putting into your body!
Calories
Each cookie contains approximately 120 calories. Perfect for a sweet treat without overindulging.
Protein
Packed with delicious peanut butter, you get about 3 grams of protein per cookie, making them not only tasty but somewhat satisfying too!
Sugar Content
Each homemade Nutter Butter has around 6 grams of sugar, allowing for that perfect balance of sweetness without being overwhelming.
Understanding the nutritional breakdown helps you enjoy these cookies guilt-free and celebrate the joy of homemade snacks. For more insights on healthy baking, check out this guide on mindful eating from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics!
FAQs about Homemade Nutter Butters
How can I ensure my cookies stay soft?
To maintain the delightful softness of your homemade Nutter Butters, make sure you don’t overbake them! (9-10 minutes should be perfect). Also, consider adding a bit of extra cornstarch, as it helps retain moisture. Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack can also help keep that chewy texture intact.
Can I freeze my Nutter Butters?
Absolutely! Homemade Nutter Butters freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag. They can last up to two months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What’s the best way to store them?
Store your homemade Nutter Butters in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and fresh for about a week. If you prefer your cookies chilled, the fridge works too! For more tips on cookie storage, check out resources from The Spruce Eats.
Conclusion on Homemade Nutter Butters
In just an hour, you can savor homemade Nutter Butters that perfectly blend salty and sweet. These delicious treats not only bring nostalgia but also elevate your snack time. With simple ingredients and a bit of love, you’re set for a delightful treat that friends and family will cherish. Happy baking!
Homemade Nutter Butters
Equipment
- stand mixer
- cookie sheet
- parchment paper
- piping bag
Ingredients
for the cookies
- 0.75 cup creamy peanut butter we recommend Jiff or Skippy!
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
for the peanut butter filling
- 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter
- 0.67 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Making Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the peanut butter, butter and brown sugar on low speed until combined. Gradually increase to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the bowl, then add in the egg and vanilla. Beat to combine.
- Add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt and beat on low speed until just combined.
- Use a 1 ounce cookie scoop to portion out equal amounts of dough. Shape the dough balls into flat oval discs and place on the baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Use a fork to make crosshatches on each circular end of the dough.
- Bake for 9 to 10 minutes or until puffed up and set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely.
Making Filling
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until smooth.
- If filling is too thick, add the last tablespoon of cream. Transfer to a piping bag.
- Match up cooled cookies into pairs. Pipe filling onto the bottom of one half and sandwich together with the other half.
Leave a Reply