If you have a soft spot for nostalgic flavors with a fun twist, you are going to adore this Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe. These cookies pack the beloved classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich into a delightful handheld treat with no flour in sight. The rich, creamy peanut butter cookie hugs a luscious homemade raspberry jam and dreamy peanut butter buttercream, making each bite a delicious celebration of sweet, salty, and fruity goodness. Perfect for gluten-free diets and any time you want a cozy, comforting snack that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these cookies right starts with some simple but fantastic ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to contribute wonderful taste, texture, and that perfect balance between sweet and nutty.
- Fresh Raspberries: For the vibrant, fresh fruity flavor that makes the jam sing.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the jam and cookies, helping to create a delightful texture.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the raspberry jam to just the right consistency.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, zesty note that balances the sweetness in the jam.
- Unsweetened Creamy Peanut Butter: The star ingredient in the cookies and buttercream; opt for a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Egg and Egg Yolk: Provide moisture and bind the cookies together perfectly without flour.
- Baking Soda: Gives a subtle lift and makes the cookies tender.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the richness and depth of the peanut butter flavor.
- Salted Butter: Used in the buttercream to create a smooth, creamy texture with a hint of saltiness.
- Powdered Sugar: Makes the buttercream silky and perfectly sweetened.
- Heavy Cream: Adjusts the buttercream’s texture, keeping it light and spreadable.
- Optional Peanuts: For garnish, adding extra crunch and a nutty finish.
How to Make Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Make the Raspberry Jam
Start by combining fresh raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Using a potato masher, crush the berries until you get a mostly smooth mixture with a few small chunks left for texture. Stir continuously while the jam thickens and bubbles for about two minutes. Once it reaches a nice jammy consistency, take the pan off the heat and let it cool completely, either at room temperature or chilled in the fridge.
Step 2: Prepare the Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. In a bowl, mix creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and baking soda until fully blended. Add the egg and egg yolk, then beat quickly until everything comes together smoothly. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form dough balls and roll them in extra sugar, then place them spaced on a nonstick baking sheet. Gently press down on each ball with a fork or masher to flatten them about half to three-quarters of an inch thick. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, then let the cookies cool on the sheet briefly before transferring to a rack.
Step 3: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Buttercream
In a clean bowl, combine softened salted butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and a splash of heavy cream. Beat with an electric mixer until you have a smooth, creamy frosting. If it feels too thick, add a little more cream; too soft means add more powdered sugar. This luscious buttercream is the perfect glue to sandwich the cookies with jam.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies have fully cooled, spread or pipe a generous dollop of peanut butter buttercream on one cookie. Top with a spoonful or a small ring of raspberry jam before placing another cookie on top to form a sandwich. For a neat look, pipe the jam inside the circle of frosting so it stays beautifully in place. Repeat until all cookies are paired up.
How to Serve Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top adds irresistible crunch and highlights the peanut butter flavor. Dusting a little powdered sugar over the cookies before serving gives a pretty, bakery-fresh look. You can even drizzle a little melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot tea to balance their rich sweetness. For brunch or afternoon snack parties, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait for a complete and colorful spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these sandwich cookies on a tiered dessert stand for a charming display. Wrap individual cookies in parchment paper and tie with twine for gifts or a party favor. You can also serve them alongside mini sandwiches or muffins to create a nostalgic-themed tea party menu everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover sandwich cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep their flavor and texture for up to four days, perfect for making ahead for a gathering or storing treats for later.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. When frozen, they stay fresh for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
Since these are sandwich cookies, reheating is usually not necessary. If you prefer a warm cookie experience, remove the top cookie and microwave just the peanut butter cookie and filling for about 10-15 seconds, then reassemble to avoid melting the jam.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nut butter in this Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter can be delicious alternatives that bring their own unique flavors. Just choose creamy varieties for the best texture in both cookies and buttercream.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free because it contains no flour. It’s a perfect treat for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing taste or texture.
How can I make the raspberry jam less sweet?
Try reducing the sugar slightly or adding a bit more fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Cooking time also helps concentrate flavors, so you can adjust to your preferred tartness.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the butter in the buttercream with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use dairy-free heavy cream alternatives like oat or almond milk for a similar creamy effect.
What’s the best way to keep the jam from spilling out when assembling?
Pipe or spread the peanut butter buttercream in a neat ring shape before adding the jam in the center. This creates a tasty barrier that holds the jam in place and prevents spills.
Final Thoughts
This Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe is such a joy to make and share. It captures the essence of a childhood favorite while offering a gluten-free, deliciously rich, and playful dessert or snack option. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself and experience the perfect blend of peanut butter, jam, and buttery goodness all in one bite!
Print
Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies (8 sandwich cookies)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Cookies are a delightful gluten-free treat featuring a homemade raspberry jam, rich peanut butter cookies, and a creamy peanut butter buttercream frostings sandwiched between. Perfectly soft and bursting with fruity and nutty flavors, these cookies are easy to prepare and ideal for a wholesome dessert or snack.
Ingredients
For the Raspberry Jam:
- 6 ounces fresh raspberries (about 1 ½ cups)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
The Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1 ¼ cups creamy unsweetened peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
The Peanut Butter Buttercream:
- ½ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted if lumpy)
- 2 tablespoons creamy unsweetened peanut butter
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Peanut for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Make the Raspberry Jam: Place all raspberry jam ingredients into a medium saucepan. Over medium heat on the stove, mash the berries with a potato masher until mostly smooth with small chunks remaining. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature or chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prepare the Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and baking soda, mixing until evenly combined. Add the egg and egg yolk and mix thoroughly for about 20 seconds. Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out dough balls. Roll each ball in additional granulated sugar and place them on a nonstick baking sheet. Flatten each cookie with a fork or potato masher to about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-9 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.
- Make the Peanut Butter Buttercream: In a medium bowl, combine softened salted butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture for about 30 seconds until smooth and creamy. Add an additional tablespoon of heavy cream if a thinner consistency is needed.
- Assemble the Sandwich Cookies: Spread or pipe peanut butter buttercream onto one cooled cookie. Spoon or pipe the raspberry jam over the buttercream, making sure it is centered to prevent spilling. Top with another cookie to form a sandwich. Repeat this with the remaining cookies and filling.
- Storage: Place the assembled sandwich cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, though the frosting contains butter and heavy cream. For dairy-free alternatives, consider plant-based butter and non-dairy cream substitutes.
- If allergic or avoiding peanuts, alternative nut butters such as almond or sunflower seed butter can be used, though they may alter the flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies; they should remain soft and chewy.
- Allow the jam to cool completely before assembling the cookies to avoid melting the buttercream.
- Chilling the butter before mixing can help create a fluffier frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
