Introduction to Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the nostalgic charm of campfire s’mores with the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter cookies, this recipe is for you. These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies blend everything you love about the classic fireside treat—graham crackers, melted chocolate, and gooey marshmallows—with soft, chewy peanut butter cookies.

This version skips the campfire but keeps all the flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings, cozy evenings, bake sales, or any dessert table, these cookies offer the ideal balance of crunchy, creamy, and gooey.

Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with friends, these sandwich cookies are bound to become a repeat favorite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

• Combines two all-time favorites: s’mores and peanut butter cookies
• Indoor-friendly and easy to prepare
• Delivers perfect textures—soft cookies, melty chocolate, gooey marshmallow
• Ideal for parties, gifting, or dessert platters
• Customizable with flavor swaps and add-ons

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

• Made with pantry-friendly ingredients
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
• A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike
• Can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions
• Visually appealing and easy to package as gifts

Preparation Phase and Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To achieve the best results for your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies, gather the following:

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Two mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop (medium size)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Wire cooling rack
• Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
• Small offset spatula or butter knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixer ensures smooth and well-combined dough
• Cookie scoop provides even portion sizes for consistent baking
• Parchment paper or silicone mat prevents sticking and promotes even browning
• Microwave-safe bowl makes melting chocolate fast and easy
• Offset spatula allows neat and easy spreading of chocolate

Preparation Tips

• Chill the cookie dough to prevent spreading and enhance texture
• Use room-temperature butter and eggs for even mixing
• Slightly toast marshmallows for a richer flavor and better stickiness
• Have all ingredients pre-measured and organized before starting

Ingredients List

For the Cookies

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 12 large marshmallows, halved (or 1 cup mini marshmallows)
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate bars
• Optional: ¼ cup crushed graham crackers for rolling the edges

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow this detailed process for foolproof Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies.

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and light in texture.
2. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough forms.
5. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
3. Using a medium cookie scoop, drop dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the sheets.
4. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft.
5. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Filling

1. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
2. Lightly toast the marshmallow halves under a broiler or with a kitchen torch until golden and gooey.

4. Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Spread a layer of melted chocolate on the flat side of one cooled cookie.
2. Place a toasted marshmallow on top.
3. Press a second cookie on top to create a sandwich.
4. Optional: Roll the marshmallow edges in crushed graham crackers for extra crunch and visual appeal.
5. Let the cookies sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Substitute marshmallow fluff for a cleaner, easier filling
• Use dark chocolate for a less sweet, richer flavor profile
• Add crushed graham crackers to the cookie dough for extra crunch
• Sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt before baking for a sweet-salty balance
• Make mini sandwiches for portion-controlled treats

Serving, Mistakes to Avoid, and Side Dishes

Serving Suggestions

Once your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are assembled and slightly cooled, it’s time to enjoy them. These cookies are best served warm when the marshmallow is gooey and the chocolate is still slightly melted. However, they’re equally satisfying at room temperature.

Ways to Serve

• Fresh from the oven – Serve the cookies within 10 minutes of assembling for the ultimate gooey experience.
• With a glass of cold milk – The classic complement to any rich cookie.
• Alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream – Add a chilled element to balance the warm filling.
• Topped with a drizzle of chocolate syrup – For a visually stunning and extra-rich presentation.
• Rolled in chopped nuts or sprinkles – Great for parties or decorating cookie platters.
• Dusted with powdered sugar – For a bakery-style finish.
• Stacked and wrapped for gifts – Use clear cellophane and ribbon for a homemade gift that looks professional.
• As mini dessert sandwiches – Cut cookies in half before assembling for smaller bites, perfect for events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies turn out perfect every time, avoid these frequent baking missteps:

Overbaking the Cookies

Mistake: Leaving cookies in the oven until they appear fully baked.
Fix: Remove when the edges are just set and the center looks slightly soft. They’ll continue baking from residual heat.

Skipping the Chill Time

Mistake: Skipping the dough chilling step to save time.
Fix: Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent flat cookies and improve texture.

Using Crunchy Peanut Butter

Mistake: Substituting creamy peanut butter with crunchy.
Fix: Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture that binds well.

Overloading with Filling

Mistake: Adding too much chocolate or marshmallow.
Fix: Use balanced amounts to prevent the cookies from sliding apart when assembled.

Using Cold Butter or Eggs

Mistake: Not bringing ingredients to room temperature.
Fix: Use softened butter and room-temperature eggs for a smoother dough consistency.

Assembling Too Soon

Mistake: Assembling while cookies are still warm.
Fix: Allow cookies to cool completely to avoid melting the chocolate too fast or having marshmallow leak out.

How to Perfect the Recipe

Even if you’re already a seasoned baker, these tips will take your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies to the next level.

Underdone Over Overdone

Soft and chewy is key. Slightly underbake the cookies if you’re unsure—they will set while cooling.

Toast Your Marshmallows

Use a broiler or kitchen torch to lightly brown marshmallows for an authentic s’mores flavor.

Use High-Quality Chocolate

Choose high-quality chocolate chips or a premium chocolate bar. The better the chocolate, the better the flavor.

Add Texture with Graham Crackers

Mix crushed graham crackers into the dough or roll the sandwich edges in crumbs for extra crunch and flavor.

Try Different Nut Butters

While creamy peanut butter is traditional, almond or cashew butter also works well for a twist.

Add a Hint of Salt

Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top of the baked cookies before assembly to enhance sweetness.

Experiment with Size

Make mini versions for party trays or large ones for dessert-style cookie sandwiches. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Make Them Ahead

Bake and freeze the cookies ahead of time. When ready to serve, toast marshmallows, melt the chocolate, and assemble fresh.

Best Side Dish Pairings

Pairing Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience. These pairings offer flavor contrast, texture variation, and balance.

1. Fresh Berry Salad

A simple mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing and tangy contrast to the richness of the cookies.

2. Vanilla Milkshake

This creamy classic drink pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey center of the cookie sandwiches.

3. Cold Brew Coffee or Espresso

A chilled or hot coffee drink cuts through the sweetness and complements the nutty flavor of the peanut butter.

4. Whipped Cream Fruit Dip

Light, airy whipped cream with fruit chunks or a flavored dip offers a creamy, less intense side option.

5. Salted Caramel Pretzels

Sweet and salty pretzels dipped in caramel provide crunchy contrast and echo the dessert’s flavor profile.

6. Frozen Yogurt Parfait

Layer frozen yogurt, granola, and fruit for a lighter, cold side dish that balances the cookie’s richness.

7. Cinnamon Apple Chips

Crisp apple chips bring in a spiced sweetness and healthy crunch to round out the dessert plate.

8. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Elegant and rich, these offer a romantic and fruity finish to your s’mores dessert plate.

Recipe Tips, Storage, FAQs, and Final Thoughts

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage ensures your Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies stay fresh, chewy, and delicious for days. Here’s how to store and reheat them correctly:

Room Temperature Storage

• Store fully assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Refrigeration

• Not recommended, as refrigeration may harden the cookies and alter their texture.
• If you must refrigerate, allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing Instructions

Freeze Unassembled Cookies:

• Bake cookies and cool completely.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• When ready to serve, reheat cookies slightly, then add freshly toasted marshmallows and chocolate.

Freeze Assembled Cookies:

• Assemble and freeze individually wrapped cookies.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.

Reheating Tips

• Use the microwave for 10 seconds to soften the marshmallow and melt the chocolate slightly.
• Avoid reheating too long, as marshmallow may over-expand or leak.

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Additional Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use Marshmallow Fluff

• A cleaner, more stable alternative to marshmallows
• Easier to spread and assemble

Adjust Sweetness

• Reduce the sugar slightly if using milk chocolate or sweet peanut butter

Make the Dough Ahead

• Cookie dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours
• Scoop dough balls and freeze individually for quick baking later

Customize the Center

• Add Nutella, caramel, or white chocolate for a different twist
• Mix crushed graham crackers or mini chocolate chips into the dough

Add Texture with Toppings

• Sprinkle the top of cookies with sea salt, cinnamon sugar, or toasted coconut

Make It Mini

• Use a teaspoon-sized scoop to make bite-sized cookies
• Ideal for party platters or children’s treats

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure your marshmallows and chocolate are certified gluten-free.

What type of peanut butter should I use?

Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture. Avoid natural peanut butter with separated oils, as it affects consistency.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

You can, but the final cookie will be denser and have an uneven texture. It may also cause the cookie to break when sandwiching.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, with adjustments:

• Use vegan butter
• Use a flax egg or egg replacer
• Choose vegan marshmallows and dairy-free chocolate

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows?

Yes. It’s easier to work with and less likely to ooze out. It also spreads evenly and creates a smooth filling.

Can I assemble the cookies in advance?

Yes. Assemble the cookies and store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze.

Can I make these nut-free?

You can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, but test the flavor first. Keep in mind it will alter the taste and structure.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

You likely skipped chilling the dough or used warm butter. Always chill dough and use room-temperature (not melted) ingredients.

How do I toast the marshmallows without a broiler?

Use a kitchen torch for precision or toast them briefly over a gas flame or in a nonstick skillet on low heat.

How do I keep the sandwiches from sliding apart?

Allow the chocolate to firm slightly before assembling, and don’t overfill with marshmallow.

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Conclusion

Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are the ultimate hybrid dessert—combining the best of both worlds into one unforgettable treat. With soft, chewy peanut butter cookies, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows, each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and indulgence.

This recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat, making it perfect for families, parties, or just treating yourself. With simple ingredients and endless variation possibilities, it’s easy to personalize and make your own.

Whether you serve them fresh, freeze for later, or gift them to someone special, these sandwich cookies are sure to impress.