There’s nothing quite like the delicious combination of peanut butter and marshmallow to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. I remember the first time I tried these cookies at a friend’s holiday gathering; the moment I took a bite, I was hooked on their soft, chewy texture and that delightful marshmallow surprise nestled inside. Fast forward to today, and I’m excited to share my take on this classic treat with my favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies.
These cookies are not just a treat for those adhering to gluten-free diets; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort that everyone will love. The rich, creamy peanut butter harmonizes perfectly with the bursts of sweet marshmallow in each bite, making them an ideal addition to any festive occasion or cozy night in. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, so you can focus on enjoying the company of friends and family, rather than spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get baking—your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Why Love My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies?
Nostalgic Comfort: There’s something undeniably comforting about the classic combo of peanut butter and marshmallow, bringing back memories of cozy gatherings.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ll have fresh cookies ready in no time—perfect for busy holiday seasons!
Soft, Chewy Delight: Each cookie’s texture is a dream; soft with a chewy center and bursts of melted marshmallow make every bite irresistible.
Family-Friendly Favorite: These cookies are a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring that everyone at your table feels festive and satisfied.
Versatile and Fun: Customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips or swapping in your favorite nut butter for a unique twist!
My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Batter
- Gluten-Free Flour – Provides structure and can be substituted with all-purpose flour if gluten isn’t a concern.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- Sea Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter (½ Cup) – Adds moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar (½ Cup) – Sweetens the cookies and helps create a delightful chewy texture.
- Brown Sugar (¾ Cup, packed) – Introduces a caramel undertone and added moisture, which is essential for softness.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (¾ Cup) – Brings richness and delicious flavor; use chunky peanut butter for a fun textural twist.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive and tasty cookie.
- Vanilla Extract (2 Teaspoons) – Adds depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of these cookies.
- Frozen Mini Marshmallows (1 ¼ Cups) – Create delightful pockets of sweetness; freezing prevents them from melting completely during baking.
Optional Add-ins
- Chocolate Chips or M&Ms – For a scrumptious flavor variation and a touch of color that’ll delight everyone at your gathering!
- Almond Butter – Substitute for creamy peanut butter for a nut-free option that still delivers incredible taste.
Indulge in the magic of My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies with these simple ingredients!
How to Make My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies
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Prepare Marshmallows: Start by placing mini marshmallows in an airtight container and freeze them for a few hours before baking. This prevents them from melting completely during cooking.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect baking environment for those delicious cookies.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and sea salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the ingredients and create a smooth batter.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until they are light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, creating a rich base.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the frozen marshmallows, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the batter.
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Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls, about 2-3 tablespoons each. Place them 1-2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet, giving them room to spread.
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Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, until they are lightly golden. They will continue to cook slightly while cooling on the baking sheet.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up perfectly.
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate before serving for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies?
Looking to create a delightful spread around these nostalgic cookies? Here’s how to complement their sweet, chewy goodness with some tasty pairings.
- Creamy Milk: A classic companion that balances the cookies’ sweetness and enhances the rich peanut butter flavor.
- Hot Cocoa: The warm chocolate decadence provides a perfect match, making for a cozy dessert experience during chilly evenings.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits add a refreshing contrast to the cookies, providing a burst of color and natural sweetness on your table.
- Whipped Cream: Top your cookies with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream for a delightful twist—great for serving at parties!
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a visually appealing and delectable treat.
- Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with your favorite ice cream creates a delightful sundae—imagine biting into a warm cookie while enjoying cool, creamy bliss.
- Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai uniquely complement the sweet peanut butter, creating a comforting drink that’s perfect during the holidays.
- Nuts: Serving a small bowl of roasted nuts adds crunch and a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by making it, scooping it into balls, and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy delicious, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights or during festive gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week, sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy indulging in your favorite gluten-free peanut butter marshmallow cookies!
My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize these delightful cookies to your taste!
- Nut-Free: Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for allergen-friendly options that still pack that rich flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips or M&Ms to add a deliciously sweet twist and extra chocolatey goodness. They’ll melt slightly, creating gooey pockets of joy!
- Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair, complementing the flavors of peanut butter and marshmallow beautifully. A hint of coconut brings extra chewiness too!
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the sweet marshmallow surprise.
- Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
- Sea Salt Caramel Swirl: Drizzle salted caramel on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet-salty contrast that elevates every bite.
- Texture Twist: Mix in rolled oats for a heartier texture while maintaining the soft and chewy experience. Oats add just the right amount of chew!
- Extra Marshmallow: For marshmallow lovers, swap in large marshmallows instead of mini ones; just cut them into smaller pieces and adjust baking time slightly.
Expert Tips for My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies
- Marshmallow Mastery: Ensure the mini marshmallows are fully frozen before adding them to the batter; this aids in maintaining their shape during baking.
- Parchment Perfection: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for even baking.
- Butter Consistency: Always use softened butter, as it blends smoothly with sugars; avoid melted butter to maintain the cookie’s texture.
- Be Gentle: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid tough cookies—overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than the soft and chewy experience you want.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center for that ideal chewy bite.
My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best gluten-free flour for these cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing gluten-free flour, look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, as this helps mimic the structure of traditional wheat flour. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer great options. If you’re new to gluten-free baking, stick with a dedicated gluten-free blend instead of single flours like almond or coconut flour, as these can drastically change the texture.
What’s the best way to store My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying, so they can soften slightly.
Can I freeze My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze these cookies, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, adding parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
Very! If your cookies spread too much and become flat, there might be a few reasons. Ensure your butter is softened, not melted—melted butter can cause excessive spreading. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh and active, as it’s essential for providing the lift needed for a good cookie. Finally, consider chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking, which helps cookies maintain their shape.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies related to these cookies?
Absolutely! Since this recipe contains peanut butter, it’s crucial to note that peanuts are toxic to dogs. If you’re sharing these cookies with family or friends who have nut allergies, consider substituting the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a similar nut-free alternative. Always check for allergies with guests prior to sharing these delightful treats!
My Favorite Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Marshmallow Cookies Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing mini marshmallows in an airtight container and freeze them for a few hours before baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and sea salt.
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the frozen marshmallows, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls, placing them 1-2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.