Peanut Butter Yo-Yos
Peanut Butter Yo-Yos are delightful sandwich cookies with a rich peanut butter flavor, crispy texture, and sweet jelly filling, perfect for any cookie lover or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, and egg until well combined.
- Blend in the flour, soda, baking powder, and salt until the dough is smooth.
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Shape the chilled dough into 3/4-inch balls.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cookies are set but not hard.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool completely.
- Pair the cooled cookies and spread jelly in the middle of one cookie, then sandwich with its pair.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use natural peanut butter instead of processed. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, consider adding a touch more sugar. You can also substitute half of the shortening with butter for added flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure thorough mixing to avoid any dry pockets in the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Yo-Yos are delightful served alongside a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For an extra touch, consider pairing them with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a wonderful dessert after a hearty meal, especially with dishes like Easy-Roll Sugar Cookies for a sweet treat combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven at low heat until just warmed through. This will help restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Yo-Yos contains roughly 913 calories, with 21g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1057mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different nut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will slightly change, but it will still yield delicious cookies. Make sure to use a creamy variety for the best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are set but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking to ensure a chewy texture. Keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark, as ovens can vary in temperature.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Let them cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy them again.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).