If you have a soft spot for nostalgic flavors and crave a cookie that’s both fluffy and rich with peanut butter goodness, you are going to adore this Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a delightful marriage of creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallow fluff, and a hint of vanilla, all baked to golden perfection. The texture perfectly balances chewy and tender, with little pockets of marshmallow fluff that add a fun, gooey surprise. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that captures the playful spirit of the classic fluffernutter sandwich in cookie form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these cookies lies in a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Each one plays a crucial role: the butter and peanut butter create a rich base, sugars bring just the right amount of sweetness and softness, and marshmallow fluff adds that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. The flour, baking soda, and salt work their magic to give the cookies structure and just the right rise.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup: Softened for easy mixing and adds creamy richness without extra salt.
- Peanut butter, 1/2 cup: Choose your favorite creamy or chunky variety for flavor and texture.
- Brown sugar, 1/2 cup: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note for depth.
- Granulated sugar, 1/4 cup: Adds balance and helps create that lightly crisp edge.
- Egg, 1 large: Binds the ingredients together and lends tenderness.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Boosts all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups: The foundation of your cookie dough, providing structure.
- Baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise and develop a light, airy texture.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Enhances sweetness and balances the richness of peanut butter.
- Marshmallow fluff, 1/2 cup: The star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature gooey touch.
How to Make Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick and clean-up is a breeze. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in how your cookies turn out.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This step ensures a perfectly fluffy dough and that lovely blend of flavors — you’ll want to scrape down the sides to evenly combine everything.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated and the mixture becomes silky. These add both flavor depth and moisture that keeps your cookies tender.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, folding gently until the dough just comes together. Overmixing here can make your cookies tough, so be gentle.
Step 5: Scoop and Add Marshmallow Fluff
Scoop heaping tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Take a small spoonful of marshmallow fluff and dollop it on top of each dough ball — this little touch makes all the difference!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until you see the edges turn a lovely golden brown and the centers look set but still soft. The marshmallow fluff will puff up slightly and caramelize just a bit.
Step 7: Cool Before Enjoying
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without breaking apart, so you get that ideal chewy texture with gooey pockets of sweetness.
How to Serve Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling a few toasted chopped peanuts on top right after adding the marshmallow fluff for an extra crunch and nutty aroma. A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving can also add a delicate sweetness and make your cookies look extra inviting.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, hot chocolate, or even a creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures will elevate your cookie experience to a whole new level.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party treat, arrange these cookies on a platter with small jars of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff so guests can add extra dollops themselves. You can also sandwich two cookies together with marshmallow fluff or peanut butter for irresistible mini treats that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Fluffernutter cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for when you want a quick snack or to share with friends.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, these cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, pop your cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave them briefly for 10-15 seconds. This refreshes the marshmallow fluff and peanut butter flavors so each bite tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and nutty bits which can be a nice twist on the traditional soft cookie feel. Just keep in mind it might affect how smooth the dough is to mix.
Is there a substitute for marshmallow fluff?
While marshmallow fluff is key for the signature texture, you can try mini marshmallows pressed into the top of the cookies before baking. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously sticky and sweet.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter for a plant-based margarine, use a flax or chia egg instead of a regular egg, and check that your marshmallow fluff alternative is vegan-friendly, as many are egg white-based.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips is an indulgent yet brilliant twist on the classic Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe. Chocolate pairs wonderfully with peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, making each bite extra special.
How do I get the marshmallow fluff to stay on top and not melt away?
Scooping the marshmallow fluff on top just before baking helps it set nicely in place. Also, avoid mixing it into the dough or placing it too early. The slight caramelization during baking keeps it beautifully set on the cookie surface.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the lookout for a cookie recipe that’s fun, nostalgic, and utterly irresistible, you simply must try this Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe. With its perfect balance of peanut butter richness and gooey marshmallow sweetness, it’s a guaranteed hit in any kitchen. Whip up a batch and share the joy — I promise these cookies will become one of your newest favorites to bake and savor!
Print
Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Fluffernutter Cookies are soft and chewy treats that combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, creating a nostalgic and indulgent dessert perfect for peanut butter lovers. These easy-to-make cookies feature a delightful contrast between the creamy peanut buttery base and the gooey, sweet marshmallow topping or center.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and well combined, creating a smooth and fluffy base.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, which helps bind the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to distribute the leavening agent and seasoning uniformly.
- Create the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which could toughen the cookies.
- Portion Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Add Marshmallow Topping: Dollop a small amount of marshmallow fluff on top of each cookie dough ball for a sweet, gooey finish.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set, ensuring a chewy texture with a slight crisp at the edges.
- Cool on Baking Sheet: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet so they firm up slightly and are easier to transfer without breaking.
- Transfer and Cool Completely: Move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the marshmallow topping to set and the flavors to meld.
- Optional Add-ins – Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent twist, add chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
- Optional Add-ins – Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or other nuts to add texture and enhance the peanut flavor.
- Mini Cookies Variation: For bite-sized treats, reduce dough portions and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Marshmallow Fluff Center Option: Create an indentation in each dough ball and fill it with marshmallow fluff before baking for a gooey center surprise.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- Marshmallow fluff can melt and spread; add it just before baking or after half-baking for best results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- These cookies freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
- Adjust baking time slightly if using mini cookie portions to avoid overbaking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
