If you have a soft spot for nostalgic flavors but crave a wholesome twist, then you are in for a treat with this Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe. These little delights take the classic peanut butter and jelly combo and turn it into a naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and utterly satisfying dessert that feels indulgent yet good for you. With just a handful of simple ingredients and no flour in sight, you get tender, chewy cookies that sandwich a luscious layer of fruit preserves—a perfect snack or sweet finish to any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful ingredient choices. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, or a hint of warmth to the cookies. Here’s what you’ll gather before baking your way to these delightful sandwich cookies:
- Natural creamy peanut butter: This adds rich, nutty flavor and the base for the cookie’s soft texture.
- Coconut sugar: A less refined sweetener that imparts a subtle caramel note and keeps the cookies wholesome.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder for the cookie dough, providing structure without flour.
- Baking soda: Gives a slight lift and helps create a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with warm aromatic notes.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the nutty flavors.
- Unsweetened fruit preserves or chia seed jam: Your choice of raspberry, strawberry, or any favorite flavor to create the perfect jelly layer.
How to Make Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, saving you from any frustration when it’s time to lift them off.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until the dough is perfectly smooth and uniform—this is the heart of your cookie sandwiches, so take a moment to appreciate the creamy, fragrant blend.
Step 3: Form and Flatten Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them gently into balls. Lay them on the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart to leave room for slight spreading. Then, flatten each one slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon, aiming for even thickness so each cookie bakes consistently.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until you notice the edges turning a lovely light golden color. It’s important not to overbake since you want the centers chewy and soft—just like a cozy hug in cookie form.
Step 5: Cool and Assemble
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, spread a thin layer of your chosen unsweetened fruit preserves on the flat side of one cookie, then gently press the flat side of another cookie on top to create the sandwich. Repeat this for all your cookies and prepare to enjoy!
How to Serve Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cookie sandwiches with a light dusting of coconut sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped peanuts for extra crunch and visual appeal. Fresh berries on the side can add a juicy freshness that complements the nutty sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of almond or oat milk, or even a warm cup of herbal tea to balance the richness. For a brunch twist, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a blend of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or just spice up your snack time? Arrange your cookie sandwiches on a tiered tray with colorful fruit preserves in mini bowls. Or wrap individual sandwiches in parchment paper tied with twine for portable, irresistible treats perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookie sandwiches fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps retain their chewy texture and prevents the fruit filling from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to make these goodies ahead of time, freeze the assembled sandwiches in a sealed container for up to one month. Just separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving for a soft bite.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, pop your cookie sandwiches in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm gently in an oven set to low heat. The peanut butter softens delightfully, and the jelly becomes even more luscious.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture contrast, giving your cookies a little extra bite. Just be mindful that it may change the dough’s consistency slightly, so you might need to adjust baking time by a minute or so.
Is it necessary to use coconut sugar?
Coconut sugar provides a nice caramel flavor and is less processed, but you can swap it with brown sugar or a similar natural sweetener if needed. Just keep in mind it may affect the taste and color slightly.
Can I make these cookie sandwiches vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, try substituting the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). The texture may differ a bit but should still yield tasty results.
What types of fruit preserves work best?
Raspberry, strawberry, or any unsweetened preserves with a slightly tart edge pair beautifully with the peanut butter. Chia seed jams are a great low-sugar alternative and add extra fiber and texture.
Are these cookies suitable for people with gluten or dairy allergies?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free since it contains no flour or dairy ingredients, making it a safe and delicious choice for those with such dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and joyful about biting into these Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe treats. They bring that classic childhood pairing into a healthier light without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to make these and experience how quick and delightful baking from scratch can be with everyday ingredients. Give them a try and watch how they become your new go-to for a sweet, wholesome indulgence!
Print
Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 cookie sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Flourless Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Sandwiches are a delicious, guilt-free treat perfect for anyone craving a classic dessert without the flour. Made with natural creamy peanut butter, coconut sugar, and unsweetened fruit preserves, these gluten-free and dairy-free cookies offer a satisfying blend of sweet and nutty flavors in a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these sandwiches bring a wholesome twist to the nostalgic peanut butter and jelly combination.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Filling
- 1/4 cup unsweetened fruit preserves or chia seed jam (such as raspberry or strawberry)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Prepare the cookie dough: In a medium bowl, combine the natural creamy peanut butter, coconut sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined without any lumps.
- Form the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place these balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to prevent sticking during baking. Flatten each ball slightly using your fingers or the back of a spoon to give them a cookie shape.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly cooked but still soft inside.
- Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely; this ensures they firm up properly for sandwich assembly.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Once cookies are fully cooled, spread a small amount of unsweetened fruit preserves or chia seed jam on the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat this process with the remaining cookies.
Notes
- For a lower sugar alternative, choose no-sugar-added fruit spreads or make your own chia seed jam.
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Store the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them to extend freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
