A Gourmet Twist on a Classic Treat
Few desserts can rival the nostalgia and comfort of s’mores. The combination of gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crispy graham crackers is a childhood favorite. But what if we took that classic treat and gave it a gourmet upgrade? Enter Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies—a decadent dessert featuring soft peanut butter cookies, homemade marshmallow fluff, and silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, s’mores enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys an indulgent homemade treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game. Whether you’re baking for a party, making a special treat for your family, or simply indulging yourself, these sandwich cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Key Benefits:
- Irresistible Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The peanut butter cookies are tender and rich, complementing the gooey marshmallow and smooth ganache.
- Homemade Goodness: Making your own marshmallow fluff and ganache adds a gourmet touch.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or experiment with different fillings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1/4 cup unsalted sweet cream butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Marshmallow Fluff:
- 1/3 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 ounces heavy cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Standing mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Ice cream scoop
- Saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Piping bag
- Double boiler
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Peanut Butter Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a standing mixer, cream together butter and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add sugar, brown sugar, and shortening; mix until well combined.
- Beat in the egg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Scoop dough into balls using an ice cream scoop and roll in sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 6-8 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Making the Marshmallow Fluff
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and corn syrup. Stir and insert a candy thermometer.
- Heat mixture over medium-high until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
- Meanwhile, beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a standing mixer until soft peaks form.
- Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while mixing on medium speed.
- Continue whipping for 7-8 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Transfer some fluff to a piping bag.
Making the Chocolate Ganache
- In a double boiler, melt chocolate chips with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Assembling the Sandwich Cookies
- Preheat the oven to low broil.
- Pipe a generous amount of marshmallow fluff onto the bottom of a peanut butter cookie.
- Repeat with 12 cookies and place them on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes until marshmallow is golden brown.
- Spread a layer of chocolate ganache onto the remaining 12 cookies.
- Sandwich the cookies together, pressing gently.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them properly:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower butter instead of peanut butter.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip half of the cookie sandwich in melted chocolate.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed graham crackers to the cookie dough.
Perfect Pairings
- Drink Pairing: Serve with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee.
- Dessert Board: Add to a dessert platter with brownies and chocolate truffles.
- Ice Cream Addition: Crumble over vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought marshmallow fluff?
Yes! While homemade fluff is more flavorful and airy, store-bought marshmallow fluff works just fine.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
You can test the sugar syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
How do I prevent my ganache from getting too thick?
If it thickens too much, gently reheat it over a double boiler and stir in a teaspoon of warm cream.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cookies a day in advance and store in an airtight container. Assemble with marshmallow and ganache just before serving.
Try This Recipe Today!
If you love peanut butter and s’mores, you must try these Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies. Perfectly soft cookies, gooey marshmallow, and rich chocolate make them a crowd-pleaser! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious treats. Happy baking! 🍪🔥🍫