Name: Irresistible Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies You’ll Adore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Gluten-Free Flour (or all-purpose flour if gluten isn't an issue); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (leavening agent); 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (to enhance flavor); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (for sweetness); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (the key ingredient); 1 large Egg (or egg replacement for a vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for aromatic flavor); 2 cups Mini Marshmallows (frozen)

As I rummaged through my pantry, an unexpected treasure caught my eye—an open jar of creamy peanut butter. Instantly, memories of cozy holiday gatherings flooded my mind, along with a craving for my favorite gluten-free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies. These soft cookies, featuring fluffy marshmallows nestled within rich peanut butter, are a delightful twist that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Not only are they simple to whip up, but they also make an irresistible addition to any festive spread, ensuring you’re always ready for both sweet cravings and surprise guests. Plus, they can easily be adapted for a vegan-friendly version! Ready to bring the magic of the holidays into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this deliciously nostalgic recipe!

Why are these cookies so special?

Irresistible Texture: These cookies offer a soft, chewy experience that melts in your mouth, making each bite unforgettable.
Nutty Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and fluffy marshmallows creates a delectable taste that delights the senses.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, preparing these cookies is a breeze, perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by exchanging peanut butter for almond butter or adding festive sprinkles for a holiday touch.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at holiday parties or as a sweet treat for unexpected guests, these cookies are sure to impress, like our scrumptious Marshmallow Swirl Cookies or delightful Peanut Crunch Salad.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences, will love these gluten-free delights, making them a hit across the board!

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookie Ingredients

For the Dough

Gluten-Free Flour – Provides the necessary structure for these delightful cookies; can substitute with all-purpose flour if gluten isn’t an issue.
Baking Soda – Serves as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise and achieve the perfect texture.
Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor profile and balances out the sweetness wonderfully.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich creaminess; make sure it’s softened for easier blending.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough while providing a light, crispy texture.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; be sure to pack it for the right consistency.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star of the show, giving depth and a luscious texture to these peanut butter marshmallow cookies.
Large Egg – Binds everything together while enriching the texture; use an egg replacement for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly.

For the Marshmallow Filling

Mini Marshmallows (frozen) – Provides that irresistible gooeyness; freezing them helps prevent melting too much during the baking process.

Looking to make these cookies even more special? The peanut butter marshmallow cookies are perfect for all festive occasions, so gather your ingredients and spark some joy this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Marshmallows
A few hours before baking, place your mini marshmallows in the freezer. This crucial step helps to maintain their shape during baking, ensuring they add that perfect gooeyness to your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies. Aim for at least 2-3 hours of freezing to get them nice and firm.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for your cookie dough. This temperature is perfect for achieving that soft, chewy texture in your cookies. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices, which is key for the perfect rise and flavor balance in your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies. Set the bowl aside while preparing the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This process takes about 2-3 minutes and is essential for achieving a rich, moist cookie base.

Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Blend on medium speed until fully combined and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should be creamy and well-mixed, creating a rich, peanut buttery batter for your cookies.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows
Quickly remove the frozen marshmallows from the freezer and fold them into the batter using a spatula or spoon. Do this swiftly to prevent the marshmallows from thawing and melting into the dough. They should be evenly distributed, leaving delightful pockets of gooeyness in your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined and a soft dough forms, taking care not to overmix. This will ensure that your cookies remain tender and chewy, with the wonderful flavor of peanut butter shining through.

Step 8: Scoop Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a generous tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 1-2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Aim for uniform sizes, roughly 2-3 tablespoons each, so your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies bake evenly.

Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; the centers should still look soft and slightly underbaked as they will continue to cook on the sheet after being removed.

Step 10: Cool
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This step allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or stored for later!

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: These cookies can also be kept in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. Your peanut butter marshmallow cookies will be delightful once more!

Make Ahead Options

These gluten-free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, keeping it fresh and ready for a quick baking session. Just be sure to tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. You can also freeze the scooped dough balls for up to 2 months; simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the preheated oven and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for delicious, warm cookies in no time!

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own with these tasty twists!

Nut Alternatives: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options. This allows those with allergies or dietary restrictions to indulge too.
Mix-Ins: Add chocolate chips, caramel chunks, or festive sprinkles for a pop of color and flavor. Just a handful of chocolate chips can elevate the experience!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan-friendly cookie. The texture remains soft, and this option keeps everyone happy during the holidays.
Flavoring: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile during the holidays. It pairs beautifully with the peanut butter and marshmallows, evoking festive feelings.
Texture Twists: For a crunchier bite, fold in some chopped nuts or seeds. They add a delightful contrast to the soft cookies, making each mouthful a fun experience.
Fruity Addition: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fruity twist that balances the richness of peanut butter. It’s a lovely surprise in every bite!
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra touch of luxury. It turns these treats into a truly indulgent delight.
Layered Delight: Create a sandwich by placing a scoop of ice cream between two cookies. This makes a delicious treat perfect for warm gatherings, perfect alongside a festive Peanut Crunch Salad.

With these variations, your peanut butter marshmallow cookies can be as unique as you are, making them a cherished favorite for any occasion!

What to Serve with My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies

These delightful treats are the perfect canvas for creating a magical dessert experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Cold Glass of Milk: Nothing beats the classic combination! The creamy milk balances the nutty sweet flavors while providing a cooling contrast to the warm cookies.
Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of cocoa perfectly complements the peanut butter and marshmallow flavors, creating a cozy vibe ideal for chilly nights.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruit adds a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness of the cookies, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm chocolate sauce drizzled over the cookies elevates them to a whole new level, adding extra sweetness and depth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delectable sundae experience, perfect for any occasion.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of coffee enhances the cookie’s nutty richness, making for a sophisticated pairing that’s great for afternoon treats.
Festive Sprinkles: For a fun twist, top your cookies with holiday-themed sprinkles, adding a delightful crunch and making them eye-catching for gatherings.

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies

Marshmallow Freezing: Always freeze the marshmallows before adding them to the dough. This prevents them from melting completely during baking, ensuring the perfect gooey texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Bake just until the edges turn golden. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies; they should remain soft and chewy once cooled.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to maintain even sizes. This ensures that all cookies bake uniformly, creating a delightful experience every time you enjoy your peanut butter marshmallow cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies, which we want to avoid for that soft texture.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in extras like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture. Customizing your peanut butter marshmallow cookies can make them even more irresistible!

Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of gluten-free flour should I use?
For this recipe, a good quality gluten-free flour blend works best as it provides the necessary structure without altering the taste too much. I recommend checking the label to ensure it doesn’t contain any undesirable additives. If gluten is not a concern, you can easily substitute it with all-purpose flour.

How should I store the cookies, and how long do they last?
To keep your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to one week! Make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out, which could affect their delightful chewiness.

Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, place your cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until they’re frozen solid. Afterward, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They will be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies feel dry, it could be due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the middle when taken out. If you experience this issue, you can enhance the moisture next time by slightly reducing the baking time and ensuring your butter is fully softened before mixing.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Since these cookies prominently feature peanut butter, they’re not safe for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative, still achieving a deliciously similar texture and taste. Always be sure to check for potential allergens in the other ingredients as well!

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Definitely! To make your Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies vegan, simply replace the large egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens), and use a plant-based buttery spread in place of unsalted butter. Enjoy the delicious goodness without compromising on dietary preferences!