Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe is the best option If you’ve ever found yourself savoring the sweet crunch and wishing you could recreate that magic at home—you’re in for a treat. In this guide, I’ll walk you through an easy, healthier homemade version of the iconic cookie, packed with real peanut butter flavor, a soft crumble, and that nostalgic creamy filling. Whether you’re baking for kids, gifting, or just indulging yourself, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and satisfying.
Let’s kick things off with the story that brought this cookie into my kitchen.
My Story & Love for Homemade Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe
A nostalgic flavor from my Italian-American kitchen to yours
Growing up in Italy, I was surrounded by rustic cookies—biscotti, amaretti, and delicate frollini—but nothing quite like the American peanut butter treats I would later discover. When I moved to the U.S., I tasted my first Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe—that iconic peanut shape, crisp edges, and smooth, sweet filling—and I was hooked. It was love at first crunch.
But as someone who values simple, whole ingredients, I knew I wanted to recreate this cookie my way: homemade, gluten-free optional, and deeply peanutty without additives or preservatives. That’s how this cookie Nutter Butter Recipe was born—something playful and nostalgic, yet grounded in real food values.
One of my proudest baking moments was when I brought a batch to a friend’s picnic, and someone asked, “Are these…Nutter Butters?” That’s when I knew I had nailed the flavor and feel of the original.
To shape the cookies, I use the back of a fork to make that crisscross texture, just like my grandma used to do for her Italian peanut cookies. And for the filling? Just pure, creamy peanut butter with a touch of flaky sea salt. If you’re a fan of creamy nostalgia like I am, you’re going to love this.
Try pairing these cookies with homemade ice cream like this 3-ingredient ice cream recipe or tuck them inside lunchboxes alongside chickpea cookie dough for a protein-packed treat.
You don’t need special equipment—just a baking sheet, fork, and the willpower not to eat half the dough before baking (no judgment if you do).
Whether you’re gluten-free or just craving comfort food, this cookie Nutter Butter recipe is a must-add to your rotation. Let’s dive into how to make them from scratch with tips inspired by Pamela Salzman’s copycat version and a few of my own family secrets.
Coming up in Part 2: Ingredients, measurements, and swaps (including vegan options) with expert tips from King Arthur Baking and Healthline.
Ingredients, Substitutions & Pro Tips for Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe
Simple pantry ingredients that make magic
What makes this cookie Nutter Butter Recipe so special is how it transforms just a handful of clean, pantry ingredients into a nostalgic, crave-worthy cookie. Unlike the store-bought version, we’re skipping the preservatives, corn syrup, and oils—and using whole ingredients like almond flour and maple syrup for natural sweetness and structure.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient | Purpose & Notes |
---|---|
Almond Flour | Adds a chewy texture and makes these naturally gluten-free. |
Peanut Butter | Choose creamy, natural PB with no added sugar or palm oil. |
Maple Syrup or Honey | Naturally sweetens the dough while keeping it moist. |
Salt | Balances sweetness and enhances peanut flavor. |
Flaky Sea Salt (garnish) | Adds a classic Nutter Butter salt finish on top. |
Extra Nut Butter | For the creamy, dreamy sandwich filling. |
Looking to experiment? Try almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even pistachio butter like in this pesto twist. For a dessert pairing idea, enjoy them with Fresas con Crema or crush them into this chocolate pumpkin cookie base.
Substitutions & Dietary Tips for Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe
- Vegan Option: Use maple syrup and a plant-based nut butter.
- Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and check flour blends for allergen info.
- Crunchy Fan? Add chopped roasted peanuts or oat bits like in chewy oatmeal bars.
- Thicker Filling? Add 1 tsp powdered sugar or use King Arthur’s peanut butter frosting base for a fluffier finish.
For those interested in the science of texture, Serious Eats explains how natural oils and baking time influence crunch vs. chewiness.
How long do they last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the cookies individually and sandwich after thawing to preserve crispness, a trick I learned from Sally’s Baking Addiction on freezing cookie dough.
Want to keep your cookies fresh and branded? Check out these cookie storage guides from Bon Appétit for gear tips.
How to Make Cookie Nutter Butter Recipe at Home
Step-by-step directions for picture-perfect results
Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to bake. This cookie Nutter Butter recipe is simple enough for a weekday treat but special enough for holidays and gifting. Let’s turn that dough into golden, peanut-shaped cookies filled with creamy magic.
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. - Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine:- 1 cup blanched almond flour
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
Mix with a spoon or hand mixer until a soft dough forms. If it’s too crumbly, add 1 teaspoon of warm water or a bit more peanut butter.
- Shape the Cookies
Scoop out dough with a teaspoon or small cookie scoop. Roll into balls, then press two together and gently pinch the middle to form a peanut shape.
For a simpler approach, just flatten individual balls and bake them as round cookies. Either way, they’ll taste amazing. - Fork Marks for Texture
Press down gently with a fork to create a criss-cross or wavy pattern on top. This nods to the traditional look and helps the cookies bake evenly. - Sprinkle Salt & Bake
Lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over the tops. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden at the edges.
Do not remove from the pan immediately—let them cool fully on the sheet to avoid crumbling. - Sandwich with Peanut Butter
Once cooled, flip half the cookies upside-down. Spread a dollop of peanut butter or almond butter on the flat side, then press a second cookie on top to sandwich.
Want to add flair? Dip half in melted chocolate or roll the edges in chopped peanuts.
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Presentation Tip
Arrange cookies on a wooden tray lined with parchment, and serve them beside a bowl of 3-ingredient ice cream or a fresh fruit platter like this Mexican fruit salad.
Quick Reference Table: Cookie Tips
Step | Key Tip |
---|---|
Shaping | Use your fingers to pinch the center like a peanut shape |
Filling | Add filling only after cookies are completely cool |
Storage | Freeze unfilled cookies; sandwich after thawing |
Use this step-by-step method for guaranteed success. For more nostalgic bakes, try banana bread with cake mix or explore peanut butter truffle cookies for a chocolatey twist.
Serving, Storing & Making the Most of Cookie Nutter Butter
Perfect for parties, picnics, or pantry cravings
Once you’ve made your homemade cookie Nutter Butter, it’s time to enjoy them—and maybe show them off a little too. These cookies are delightfully nostalgic, beautifully simple, and incredibly shareable.
Serving Suggestions
These are sandwich cookies made for fun. Serve them:
- With a glass of cold milk or almond milk
- Alongside homemade ice cream for a cookie sundae bar
- As edible party favors wrapped in parchment and tied with string
- Crushed into rice krispies ice cream sandwiches for a gourmet twist
If you’re looking for a snacky brunch option, place these cookies next to omelette with burrata for a sweet-savory contrast.
Storage Tips
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage:
- Freeze unfilled cookies on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Defrost before sandwiching to preserve crisp edges.
Filled cookies can be refrigerated, but the centers will firm up—some people actually prefer them that way!
If you’re curious about food safety with peanut-based treats, USDA’s shelf-stable guide is worth checking out.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Just use maple syrup and make sure your nut butter is dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Too much oil in the peanut butter can cause this. Use thick, stirred natural PB and chill your dough 15 minutes before baking.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour?
You can, but the texture will be drier and more biscuit-like. You may need to add 1–2 tsp milk or a splash of water to loosen the dough.
How do I get that classic Nutter Butter flavor?
Use slightly salted creamy peanut butter (no sugar added), and don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top! For nostalgic flair, serve with classic cinnamon rolls.
Conclusion
Creating these cookie Nutter Butter treats at home isn’t just about baking—it’s about reliving memories, creating joy, and bringing people together. Whether you grew up with the iconic store-bought version or are discovering this peanut butter sandwich cookie for the first time, this recipe offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and wholesome simplicity.
By using real ingredients like almond flour and natural peanut butter, you get a delicious cookie that feels indulgent but grounded in quality. And thanks to its easy steps and flexible swaps, it’s a recipe anyone can master and love.
Now it’s your turn—bake, share, and most of all, enjoy every bite.
PrintCookie Nutter Butter Recipe: Easy Homemade Version Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 12 sandwich cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade cookie Nutter Butter made with creamy peanut butter, almond flour, and maple syrup—no preservatives, just real flavor.
Ingredients
1 cup blanched almond flour
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
Pinch of salt (if using unsalted PB)
Flaky sea salt for topping
Extra peanut butter for filling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet.
2. Mix almond flour, maple syrup, and peanut butter until dough forms.
3. Roll dough into balls and form peanut shapes.
4. Press fork for pattern and sprinkle flaky salt.
5. Bake for 12 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
6. Spread peanut butter on one cookie and sandwich with another.
Notes
If dough is dry, add 1 tsp warm water.
Cookies spread less with thicker PB.
Store in an airtight container or freeze unfilled.
Substitute with almond or sunflower butter for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cookie nutter butter, peanut butter sandwich cookie, homemade nutter butter