If you’re a fan of the classic fluffernutter sandwich, you’re going to love peanut butter and marshmallow cookies! These soft, chewy, and gooey treats combine the rich nuttiness of peanut butter with the light, fluffy sweetness of marshmallow, creating an irresistible balance of flavors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bake the perfect peanut butter and marshmallow cookies. From the best ingredients to expert baking tips and variations, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about baking these cookies and how to store them for maximum freshness.
Introduction to Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
What Are Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies?
Peanut butter and marshmallow cookies are a fun, flavorful twist on classic peanut butter cookies. Inspired by the famous fluffernutter sandwich, these cookies feature a rich peanut butter base with swirls of gooey marshmallow fluff throughout.
Unlike traditional peanut butter cookies, which are dense and crumbly, these have a chewy texture with pockets of sweet marshmallow. The contrast between salty peanut butter and light, sugary marshmallow makes every bite unforgettable!
Why This Cookie Recipe is So Popular
There’s a reason peanut butter and marshmallow cookies are trending! Here’s why bakers and dessert lovers can’t get enough of them:
- Easy to make – With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Perfect texture – Crispy edges, a soft center, and gooey marshmallow swirls.
- Kid-approved – If you love peanut butter treats, this one’s a winner!
- Customizable – Add chocolate chips, caramel, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
What makes peanut butter and marshmallow cookies truly irresistible is the contrast of flavors. The saltiness of peanut butter enhances the sweetness of the marshmallow, creating a perfectly balanced bite. And when baked just right, the chewy, slightly crisp edges make them even more addicting!
Now that you know why these cookies are a must-try, let’s dive into the key ingredients that make them so delicious.
Key Ingredients for the Best Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
Choosing the Right Peanut Butter for Baking
The type of peanut butter you use can make or break your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies. For the best texture and flavor, go for:
- Creamy peanut butter – Provides a smooth, rich consistency that blends well into the dough.
- Natural peanut butter – A great option, but make sure to stir it well before using to avoid too much oil separation.
- Crunchy peanut butter – Adds a delightful crunch, but may make the cookies slightly drier.
Avoid peanut butter with added oils or sugars, as these can affect the final texture.
The Role of Marshmallow in Cookie Texture
Marshmallow is the star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature gooeyness. Instead of regular marshmallows, this recipe calls for marshmallow fluff, which swirls better into the dough. Here’s why:
- Marshmallow fluff stays soft and gooey even after baking.
- Regular mini marshmallows may melt too much, creating hollow gaps in the cookies.
- Homemade marshmallow cream can be used, but the texture may vary.
Other Essential Ingredients (Flour, Sugar, Butter, etc.)
- All-purpose flour – The base of the dough, giving it structure.
- Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly while keeping them chewy.
- Brown sugar & granulated sugar – A mix of both gives the cookies moisture and a balanced sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and keeps the cookies tender.
Optional Add-Ins: Chocolate Chips, Nuts, or Caramel?
Want to level up your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies? Try these fun add-ins:
- Chocolate chips – Because peanut butter + chocolate = perfection!
- Chopped peanuts – For extra crunch and texture.
- Sea salt – Enhances the sweet-salty contrast.
- Caramel drizzle – For a decadent, gooey finish.
For another fun twist on fluffernutter-style cookies, check out this Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe.
Now that we’ve covered ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step baking process!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparing the Cookie Dough for the Perfect Texture
The secret to soft, chewy peanut butter and marshmallow cookies lies in how you mix the dough. Follow these steps:
- Cream the butter and sugars – Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the peanut butter – Mix until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract – These ingredients help bind everything together.
- Whisk dry ingredients separately – Combine flour, baking soda, and salt before slowly folding them into the wet mixture.
- Don’t overmix! – Stir just until the dough comes together to keep the cookies soft.
How to Properly Swirl Marshmallow into the Dough
To get that perfect marshmallow swirl without over-mixing:
- Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow fluff on top of the cookie dough.
- Use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl the fluff into the dough.
- Avoid over-mixing, or the marshmallow will disappear into the dough completely.
Baking Tips: Temperature, Time, and Techniques for Soft Cookies
For perfectly baked peanut butter and marshmallow cookies:
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure consistent baking.
- Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet, ensuring easy release and preventing sticking.
- Scoop cookie dough evenly using a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookies.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes – The edges should be golden, but the centers should look slightly underdone.
The cookies continue baking on the tray even after they’re removed from the oven, so don’t worry if they seem soft at first!
Cooling & Storing for Maximum Freshness
To keep your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies fresh and delicious:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for later – You can store baked cookies in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Expert Baking Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
How to Keep Cookies Soft and Chewy
There’s nothing worse than baking cookies only to have them turn out too hard or dry. Follow these tips to keep your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies perfectly soft and chewy:
- Use brown sugar instead of all white sugar – Brown sugar retains moisture, making cookies chewier.
- Slightly underbake the cookies – Take them out when the edges are golden, but the centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.
- Don’t overmix the dough – Overworking it can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined!
- Store with a slice of bread – Place a slice of white bread in the container with your cookies. The cookies absorb the moisture, keeping them soft for days.
Preventing Cookies from Spreading Too Much
Nobody wants paper-thin cookies! If your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies keep spreading too much, try these solutions:
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Cold dough spreads less.
- Use room temperature butter – Butter that’s too soft can cause excessive spreading.
- Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately—gently spoon it into a measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Too little flour makes cookies spread too thin.
The Best Way to Get Gooey Marshmallow Swirls
The marshmallow swirl is what makes these cookies stand out! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Drop small dollops of marshmallow fluff onto the dough instead of mixing it in completely.
- Use a toothpick or butter knife to lightly swirl—don’t overmix!
- Bake on parchment paper to prevent sticky marshmallow from burning onto the baking sheet.
Troubleshooting Common Cookie Baking Mistakes
- Cookies too dry? Add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
- Cookies too puffy? Flatten the dough slightly before baking.
- Marshmallow disappearing? Swirl it in more gently and don’t overbake.
For a slightly different take on this recipe, check out this Fluffernutter Cookies Recipe!
Creative Variations of Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
Love peanut butter and chocolate together? Try dipping your cookies in melted dark or milk chocolate!
- Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil for a smooth consistency.
- Coat half of each cooled cookie in the melted chocolate.
- Place on parchment paper and let them set before serving.
Adding Caramel, Sea Salt, or Nutella for a Gourmet Touch
Want to elevate your cookies? Here are some delicious add-ins:
- Caramel drizzle – Swirl in soft caramel sauce before baking.
- Sea salt flakes – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavors.
- Nutella swirl – Add a spoonful of Nutella along with the marshmallow fluff for extra richness.
Turning the Recipe into Cookie Bars or Blondies
Short on time? Instead of making individual cookies, turn the recipe into cookie bars:
- Press the dough into a lined 8×8 baking pan instead of scooping individual cookies.
- Swirl in marshmallow fluff using a butter knife.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Let them cool completely before slicing into squares.
These variations add an extra gourmet twist to peanut butter and marshmallow cookies, making them even more irresistible!
How to Serve and Pair Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
Best Drinks to Pair with Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies
Pairing peanut butter and marshmallow cookies with the right drink can enhance their flavors and make them even more enjoyable. Here are some great choices:
- Cold milk – The creamy richness of milk balances the sweet and salty flavors of the cookies.
- Hot chocolate – A warm cup of hot cocoa complements the gooey marshmallow perfectly.
- Coffee or espresso – The slight bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Peanut butter milkshake – A thick peanut butter milkshake doubles up on the nutty flavor for a truly indulgent treat.
How to Make Ice Cream Sandwiches with These Cookies
Turn peanut butter and marshmallow cookies into ice cream sandwiches for a fun and delicious dessert:
- Scoop vanilla, chocolate, or peanut butter ice cream onto the bottom of one cookie.
- Press another cookie on top, gently squeezing to spread the ice cream evenly.
- Roll the edges in crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles for extra texture.
- Freeze for 30 minutes before serving to firm up.
These homemade ice cream sandwiches are perfect for summer or anytime you crave a cool, sweet treat!
Storing and Freezing: Can You Save Them for Later?
To keep your peanut butter and marshmallow cookies fresh:
- Keep in a sealed container at room temperature for up to five days.
- Freeze for later – Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat for a fresh taste – Warm cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to bring back the gooey marshmallow texture.
Now that we’ve covered serving suggestions, let’s answer some common baking questions!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I keep marshmallow from melting too much in cookies?
Marshmallow fluff can be tricky to bake with. To keep it from melting too much:
- Use chilled dough – Cold dough slows the melting process.
- Swirl marshmallow gently – Overmixing will make it disappear into the dough.
- Bake at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/163°C) – This gives the cookies time to set before the marshmallow spreads too much.
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, but with some adjustments! Natural peanut butter has more oil separation, which can make the dough too runny. To fix this:
- Stir the peanut butter thoroughly before adding it to the dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
- Consider adding 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour if the dough feels too soft.
What other desserts can I make with peanut butter and marshmallow?
If you love peanut butter and marshmallow cookies, here are some other delicious treats to try:
- Fluffernutter sandwiches – The classic peanut butter and marshmallow fluff sandwich.
- Peanut butter and marshmallow brownies – Swirl marshmallow fluff into brownie batter before baking.
- Marshmallow peanut butter rice krispies – A fun, no-bake treat!
- Peanut butter marshmallow fudge – A rich and creamy dessert.
Are peanut butter and marshmallow cookies gluten-free?
The classic recipe is not gluten-free, but you can make adjustments:
- Use gluten-free flour – A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour works best.
- Check marshmallow fluff labels – Some brands may have gluten-containing additives.
- Ensure baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free – Some may contain traces of gluten.
With these easy swaps, you can enjoy peanut butter and marshmallow cookies without the gluten!
Conclusion – Why Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cookies Are a Must-Try!
Peanut butter and marshmallow cookies bring together rich, nutty peanut butter and sweet, gooey marshmallow fluff in a way that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy family treat, a party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies always deliver on flavor and texture.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the cookies based on dietary preferences. Need a gluten-free version? Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Want a vegan option? Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg. Looking to cut back on sugar? Lower the sugar content and opt for unsweetened peanut butter. No matter how you tweak the recipe, these cookies remain soft, chewy, and delicious.
Beyond baking them the traditional way, you can get creative! Turn them into ice cream sandwiches, blend them into milkshakes, or crumble them over yogurt or brownies for a fun twist. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), they store well and can even be frozen for later enjoyment.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and bake a batch of these gooey, mouthwatering peanut butter and marshmallow cookies today! Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Happy baking!