Introduction
If you’re looking for a fun and super cute treat that’s also delicious and easy to make, Santa Nutter Butters are exactly what you need! These little cookies are like the perfect combo of nostalgia and creativity—using classic Nutter Butters and transforming them into jolly little Santa faces. They’re just as tasty as they are adorable, with that signature peanut butter flavor and a hint of chocolate that makes them extra special.
I love making these during the holidays, especially when we’re having family over or need a simple but festive snack. They always get smiles, and they’re so easy, even if you’re new to baking. I remember the first time I made these—I was trying to find something fun to make with my kids, and we ended up in a fit of giggles over how cute they turned out. It’s one of those recipes that really sticks with you, not just because it tastes great, but because it creates such fun moments in the kitchen. They’re perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just a sweet snack to share with the people you love.
The best part? They’re super simple. You only need a handful of ingredients—Nutter Butters, white chocolate, and a few decorations—and just a little bit of time. So, don’t worry if you’re a beginner baker—this recipe is easy to follow, and it’s hard to go wrong. Trust me, you can totally do this! Ready to make these cute little treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are some reasons to fall in love with Santa Nutter Butters:
- Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can have these treats ready in no time.
- Fun to Make: The decorating part is a blast, whether you’re making them solo or with family and friends.
- Peanut Butter Delight: If you love peanut butter, you’ll adore the rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
- Perfect for All Ages: Kids will love making and eating these, while adults can appreciate the nostalgic flavors.
- No-Bake Option: They require no baking, making them perfect for busy days when you want a quick treat.
- Customizable: You can decorate these however you like—get creative with different colors and toppings!
- Great for Gifting: These little treats make adorable homemade gifts when wrapped up in a cute package.
Preparation Time and Cook Time
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 20 cookies
- Calories per cookie: Approximately 100 calories
- Key Nutrients: Fat: 6g, Carbohydrates: 11g, Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Santa Nutter Butters:
For the Cookies:
- 1 package Nutter Butters (or any peanut butter sandwich cookies)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips)
- Red candy melts (optional, for decoration)
- Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
- Red candy (for noses, optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Nutter Butters: The classic peanut butter sandwich cookies provide the perfect base.
- White Chocolate: Adds a creamy touch that complements the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
- Candy Melts: Used for decorating, giving the cookies a festive pop of color.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Perfect for creating little eyes that bring your cookies to life.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Santa Nutter Butters:
Prepare the Cookies
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the white chocolate chips (or milk chocolate) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Dip the Cookies: Dip half of each Nutter Butter cookie into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Place the dipped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden for about 15 minutes.
- Decorate with Candy: Once the chocolate has set, use red candy melts or candy to create Santa’s hat (or a different design) on the top of the cookies. For the eyes, place mini chocolate chips, and for the nose, use a small red candy if you like.
Chill and Serve
- Chill the Cookies: Place the cookies back in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the chocolate is fully set.
- Serve: Once fully set and decorated, serve your Santa Nutter Butters on a plate or wrap them as gifts!
How to Serve
Here are some fun ways to serve your Santa Nutter Butters:
- Display on a Platter: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter for a fun snack.
- Gift-Wrapped: These cookies make a great homemade gift when wrapped up in clear bags with ribbons.
- Create a Cookie Bar: Set up a cookie bar where people can decorate their own cookies with various toppings.
- Pack for Lunch: These are perfect for packing in lunch boxes or for an afternoon snack.
- Add to a Dessert Table: These cookies are great additions to any dessert spread, adding a touch of fun and whimsy.
- Serve with Milk: For a nostalgic treat, pair these with a glass of cold milk.
Additional Tips
Make the most out of your Santa Nutter Butters with these helpful tips:
- Chill Time: Be sure to chill the cookies long enough to set the chocolate before serving or gifting.
- Customize the Decor: Use different colored candy melts or sprinkles to make each cookie unique.
- Add Fun Toppings: Consider adding small candies like mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or nuts for extra texture and fun.
- No Need for Perfection: Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly shaped—these cookies are all about fun and creativity!
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Recipe Variations
Here are a few variations to try with your Santa Nutter Butters:
- Use Milk Chocolate: Try using milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor.
- Flavor Add-ins: Add a little sprinkle of sea salt to the chocolate for a sweet-salty combination.
- Use Different Cookies: If you don’t have Nutter Butters, try other peanut butter cookies or even shortbread cookies.
- Nut-Free Option: Use vanilla sandwich cookies or any other alternative if you need a nut-free version.
- Use Peanut Butter Chips: For an extra boost of peanut butter flavor, try dipping the cookies in melted peanut butter chips.
Freezing and Storage
Store your Santa Nutter Butters properly to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Special Equipment
These tools will help you make your Santa Nutter Butters:
- Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Baking Sheet: To set the dipped cookies as they cool.
- Spatula or Spoon: For dipping and spreading the chocolate.
- Decorating Tools: Piping bags or small spoons for precise decoration if desired.
FAQ Section
Here are answers to some common questions about Santa Nutter Butters:
- Can I use homemade peanut butter cookies instead of Nutter Butters?
Yes, you can use homemade cookies or another store-bought peanut butter cookie. - How long can I store these cookies?
Store them at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze them for up to 3 months. - Can I use chocolate chips for dipping?
Yes, you can use chocolate chips if you prefer a different type of chocolate. - Can I make these without the chocolate dip?
Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own without the chocolate coating. - Can I add other candies to decorate?
Yes! Feel free to use any small candies like M&Ms, sprinkles, or gumdrops to decorate the cookies.
Santa Nutter Butters
- Total Time: 30 min.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 12 Nutter Butter cookies
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
- 12 mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
- 12 candy eyes (optional, but adds a fun touch)
- Red sprinkles (for nose)
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Dip the Cookies
- Dip the Cookies: Hold each Nutter Butter cookie by the sides and dip it into the melted white chocolate, covering about half of the cookie.
- Let Excess Drip Off: Gently tap the cookie against the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
Decorate the Cookies
- Create the Face: Place the dipped cookie onto a sheet of parchment paper or a cooling rack. Add two mini chocolate chips for eyes and a red sprinkle or candy piece for the nose.
- Let Set: Allow the cookies to cool and the chocolate to harden for about 10 minutes. You can also place them in the fridge for faster setting.
- Prep Time: 15 min.
- Cook Time: 15 min.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 cookies
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
Santa Nutter Butters are a treat that brings both joy and creativity to your kitchen. The combination of crunchy, peanut butter-flavored cookies with fun, festive designs makes them a hit at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family event, or just to enjoy with loved ones, these cookies are sure to stand out. The best part is how simple and quick they are to make—no complicated steps, just a lot of fun decorating!
You can get as creative as you want with the designs, whether you keep them classic with Santa’s face or add your own personal flair. It’s a fantastic opportunity to involve kids or loved ones in the kitchen, making memories while you all get creative. And with just a few ingredients, you’ll have a batch of cookies that are not only delicious but also a joy to share.
I can’t wait to see how your Santa Nutter Butters turn out! Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or add your own special touches, I’d love to hear how they turn out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts—I always love hearing from you. And of course, be sure to snap a photo of your finished cookies and tag me on social media! Your delicious creations inspire me every time. So gather those ingredients, have fun decorating, and enjoy these adorable treats with your loved ones. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to see your Santa Nutter Butters in all their festive glory!