These peanut butter shortbread cookies offer the perfect balance of crispiness and creaminess. Each cookie is packed with peanut flavor, thanks to the smooth peanut butter mixed into the dough, and hides a gooey peanut butter filling inside. The buttery shortbread dough gives them a delicate texture, while a touch of sea salt on top enhances the nutty flavor. These cookies are ideal for peanut butter lovers and make an excellent treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These peanut butter shortbread cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of soft, buttery dough and a rich, creamy peanut butter center makes them a standout dessert. The muscovado or brown sugar gives them a slight caramel flavor, which perfectly complements the nutty richness of the peanut butter. You’ll love the texture contrast between the crisp edges and the gooey center. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day, from a quick snack to an indulgent dessert.
The Perfect Occasion
These cookies are perfect for any weekend baking project, afternoon tea, or even as a homemade gift. They are a hit at family gatherings, bake sales, or parties, where their unique filling is always a delightful surprise. With their rich flavor and appealing appearance, these peanut butter shortbread cookies are an ideal treat for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Their gooey center also makes them a great choice for a cozy, comforting dessert during colder months.
Decoration Tips
For an elegant finish, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies just before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives them a rustic, bakery-style look. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after they’ve cooled for a bit of extra indulgence. If you want to add more texture, consider topping them with crushed peanuts. To make them even more festive, you could dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients (Makes 9 Cookies)
- 140g semi-salted butter, partially melted
- 130g muscovado sugar, brown sugar, or blonde vergeoise
- 1 egg
- 70g peanut butter (smooth)
- 230g all-purpose flour
- 2g baking soda
- 1 jar of crunchy or creamy peanut butter (for filling)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
Before you start making the dough, drop teaspoon-sized dollops of peanut butter onto a parchment-lined tray and place in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to wrap the dough around the peanut butter filling later.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the semi-salted butter and sugar, mixing until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and whisk until fully combined. Stir in the smooth peanut butter. Once everything is mixed, add the flour and baking soda, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
When your dough is ready and the peanut butter filling is frozen, take about 65g of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a frozen peanut butter dollop in the center, then wrap the dough around it, making sure the filling is completely enclosed. Repeat this with the remaining dough and peanut butter.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) with a fan setting. Arrange the dough balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie for added flavor. Bake for 12-13 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey peanut butter center, or store them in an airtight container for later.
Enjoy!
These peanut butter shortbread cookies are a perfect balance of crispy and gooey, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Perfect for any peanut butter lover, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
