Classic Monkey Butter Recipe

Servings: 64-80 cookies

Ingredients:

– 2 cups (250g) peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (for dusting)
– Optional fillings: banana slices, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream peanut butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Cover and refrigerate mixture for at least 30 minutes.

Assembly:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Scoop mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
3. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
4. Flatten slightly with a fork or fingers.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Dusting and Filling:

1. Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar.
2. Optional: sandwich a banana slice, chocolate chip, or chopped nut between two cookies.

Tips and Variations:

– Use natural peanut butter for a coarser texture.
– Add a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor.
– Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for a different taste.
– Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an extra treat.

Storage:

– Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
– Freeze for up to 2 months.

Monkey Butter Cookies are a classic Southern treat, perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or bake sales. Enjoy!

Variations:

1. Chocolate Monkey Butter: Add 1/2 cup melted chocolate to peanut butter mixture.
2. Banana Monkey Butter: Mash 1 ripe banana and mix into peanut butter mixture.
3. Nutty Monkey Butter: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or walnuts.

Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and flavors to create your unique Monkey Butter recipe!