Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

1. Cream the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
   • Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Create the Classic Peanut Butter Cookie Pattern:
   • Use a fork to flatten each ball, pressing lightly in a crisscross pattern.
6. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly underdone.
   • Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:
   • Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the filling is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
3. Chill (Optional):
   • Refrigerate the filling for 10–15 minutes if it feels too soft to handle.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Match the Cookies:
   • Pair up cookies of similar size and shape to create uniform sandwiches.
2. Add the Filling:
   • Spread or pipe about 1–2 teaspoons of the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
3. Sandwich Together:
   • Top with a second cookie, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly to the edges.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Presentation:
   • Arrange the sandwich cookies on a platter, or wrap them individually for gifting.
2. Storage:
   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

1. Soft Cookies:
   • Do not overbake the cookies; they should remain soft and chewy to complement the creamy filling.
2. Customizing Flavors:
   • Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie dough or filling for a warm twist.
3. Decorative Options:
   • Drizzle the finished sandwich cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle with chopped peanuts for added flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies combine everything we love about peanut butter into one delightful dessert. The contrast of soft cookies and creamy filling creates an indulgent experience in every bite. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).