Fluffernutter Cookies: 9 Irresistible Reasons to Bake This Sweet Classic Today
If you grew up with the sticky-sweet joy of a classic sandwich made from peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, then you’re in for a nostalgic treat. These Fluffernutter Cookies are everything you love about that childhood favorite—soft, gooey, sweet, and salty—only better. Imagine a chewy peanut butter cookie base swirled with creamy marshmallow pockets and a buttery finish that melts in your mouth. It’s the comfort food dessert you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this peanut butter cookie recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent results. From after-school snacks to indulgent treats for yourself, Fluffernutter Cookies bring joy with every bite. Even better, they’re highly customizable—from brownie vegan twists to healthier swaps for those who’ve lost 100 pounds and still want something sweet without overindulging.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible cookie, the secrets to its texture, and all the delicious ways you can make it your own.
What Are Fluffernutter Cookies? A Twist on a Classic Sandwich
The Fluffernutter Cookie is inspired by the iconic American classic sandwich that combines peanut butter with marshmallow fluff on white bread. In cookie form, the flavors are even more intensified. You get the nutty richness of a butter cookie, the sticky sweetness of marshmallow, and a soft-baked texture that feels like a warm hug.
This dessert version transforms those two sandwich ingredients—peanut butter and fluff—into a chewy, golden-brown cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s one of those fluff recipe creations that manages to be nostalgic and gourmet at the same time.
If you’re a fan of creative comfort desserts, check out our banana cream hand pies or churro cracker candy for more crowd-pleasing treats.
Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookie
To make about 20–24 Fluffernutter Cookies, gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff (not mini marshmallows)
These ingredients balance perfectly to deliver a peanut butter marshmallow cookie that is soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. You can use natural peanut butter, but stir it thoroughly so the oil doesn’t affect the dough texture.
How to Make Fluffernutter Cookies Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cream the fats and sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add egg and vanilla
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Step 4: Swirl in the fluff
Using a spatula, gently fold in dollops of marshmallow fluff. Don’t overmix—you want visible swirls of fluff throughout the dough.
Step 5: Chill the dough
Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for keeping the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon portions and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
These cookies are soft in the center and slightly crisp on the edges—the ultimate texture combo for Fluffernutter Cookies.
Essential Baking Tools for This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
To get perfect results, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop (for even portions)
- Cooling rack
These tools are the backbone of any reliable peanut butter cookie recipe and will help you create picture-perfect cookies every time.
Tips for Soft, Chewy Fluffernutter Cookies Every Time
Here are the top techniques for success:
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes—it helps prevent excessive spreading.
- Don’t overmix after adding the fluff; leave those beautiful marshmallow ribbons visible.
- Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and even texture.
- If the cookies spread too much, use a spoon to gently push the edges back into shape while still warm.
Following these steps ensures your Fluffernutter Cookies come out soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey marshmallow in every bite.
Creative Variations: From Brownie Vegan Swaps to Chunky Butter Cookie Twists
Love the base recipe but want to mix it up? Try these variations:
- Brownie Vegan Fluffernutter Cookies: Use a vegan butter substitute, egg replacer, and dairy-free marshmallow fluff. Add cocoa powder to the dough for a brownie-like texture.
- Chunky Butter Cookie Style: Fold in peanut butter chips or chocolate chunks for extra richness.
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter (note: taste and texture will change slightly).
- Double Fluff: Add a swirl of fluff on top of the cookies halfway through baking for a gooey finish.
These tweaks let you enjoy Fluffernutter Cookies whether you’re baking for kids, guests, or dietary needs.
How to Store and Freeze Fluffernutter Cookies
Fluffernutter Cookies store well at room temperature for 4–5 days in an airtight container. Want to keep them longer?
- Refrigerate for up to 7 days.
- Freeze dough balls or baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat briefly in the microwave for fresh-baked texture.
This makes them ideal for weekly meal prep or freezing ahead for holidays and parties.
Serving Ideas: Pairing Suggestions for Peanut Butter Cookies
Here are delicious ways to enjoy or serve your Fluffernutter Cookies:
- With a glass of cold milk or almond milk
- Crushed and layered into a peanut butter parfait
- Sandwiched around vanilla ice cream
- Served warm with a drizzle of melted chocolate
They also pair wonderfully with our coconut cooler drink or lemon truffle for sweet variety.
Fluff Recipe Insights: How Marshmallow Fluff Works in Cookies
Wondering how marshmallow fluff behaves in baking? It doesn’t caramelize like sugar or hold shape like mini marshmallows. Instead, it melts into gooey ribbons that harden slightly upon cooling—giving your peanut butter marshmallow cookies a chewy bite and a toasty edge.
Fluff also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the salty peanut butter. That’s why it’s a staple in any authentic fluff recipe.
The Classic Sandwich Turned Cookie: A Brief History of Fluffernutter
The Fluffernutter sandwich has New England roots dating back to the early 20th century. Originally called a “Liberty Sandwich,” it became a childhood lunch staple across the U.S., especially in Massachusetts.
Turning this classic sandwich into a cookie has given it new life. The comforting flavor combo of peanut butter and fluff remains timeless—only now, it’s bakeable and sharable.
Healthier Swaps: Can You Still Love Cookies After You’ve Lost 100 Pounds?
Yes, you can absolutely enjoy Fluffernutter Cookies as part of a balanced lifestyle—even if you’ve lost 100 pounds or are focused on health goals.
Here’s how to lighten things up:
- Use monk fruit or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar.
- Try almond flour for a lower-carb version.
- Make smaller cookies for portion control.
- Choose sugar-free marshmallow fluff alternatives.
Balance and moderation are key. Enjoying treats like these doesn’t have to derail your progress—it can be a celebration of it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies
- Using natural peanut butter without stirring—this leads to oily, uneven dough.
- Skipping the chill time, which results in overly flat cookies.
- Overmixing the fluff, which causes it to disappear into the dough.
- Overbaking—they’ll look underdone at 10 minutes but firm up as they cool.
Avoid these and you’ll have bakery-style Fluffernutter Cookies every time.
FAQs About Fluffernutter Cookies and Marshmallow Fluff
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of fluff?
You can, but they tend to melt and disappear. Fluff gives better texture and pockets of gooeyness.
Is marshmallow fluff the same as marshmallow cream?
Yes. They can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Scoop into balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a similar result.
Conclusion
These Fluffernutter Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with peanut butter and marshmallow flavor. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with nostalgic charm. Whether you’re revisiting your childhood love for the classic sandwich or simply looking for a fresh peanut butter cookie recipe, this one deserves a spot in your baking rotation.
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PrintFluffernutter Cookies: 9 Irresistible Reasons to Bake This Sweet Classic Today
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fluffernutter Cookies are a nostalgic twist on the classic peanut butter and marshmallow sandwich. With a soft, chewy texture, gooey marshmallow swirls, and a buttery finish, they’re the perfect treat for dessert lovers of all ages. Easy to bake and even easier to love!
Ingredients
-
1 cup creamy peanut butter
-
½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
-
1 large egg
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
1 cup marshmallow fluff (not mini marshmallows)
Instructions
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Cream Fats and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
-
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add to the wet mixture until just combined.
-
Swirl in Fluff: Gently fold in marshmallow fluff with a spatula, creating visible ribbons. Don’t overmix.
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Chill Dough: Cover and refrigerate dough for at least 30 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop 1.5 tbsp of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until lightly golden.
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Cool: Let cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Do not skip chilling—this helps keep the cookies from spreading. For gooier centers, slightly underbake and let finish setting while cooling. Fluff adds that signature chew and melt-in-your-mouth texture.