We love how easy these peanut butter logs are to make. They’re super quick to whip up and remind us of childhood treats that spark happy memories and satisfy our sweet tooth.
We enjoy rolling them in our favorite coatings like toasted coconut or chopped nuts for extra crunch. They make a fun activity for all of us when we want a simple treat that brings comfort with every bite.
Ingredients
We gather all items beforehand to keep our process smooth. We set the butter out so it softens evenly. We measure the peanut butter carefully to maintain consistency.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Creamy peanut butter | 1 cup |
| Butter (unsalted softened) | 2 tablespoons |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Optional coatings: toasted coconut or chopped nuts | 1/2 cup each |
We keep the peanut butter at room temperature so it stirs easily. We prefer unsalted butter for better flavor control. We sift the powdered sugar if it appears lumpy. We keep our favorite coatings ready because we roll the logs immediately after mixing.
Tools And Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise amounts of peanut butter, powdered sugar, and other ingredients
- Mixing bowl: We choose a sturdy medium bowl that allows us to stir without spilling
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: We use these for blending the softened butter into the peanut butter mixture
- Baking sheet: We line this with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking
- Sharp knife: We cut our logs to a uniform width for even serving
- Coating bowls: We pour our toppings such as chopped peanuts, shredded coconut, or powdered sugar into small bowls
Prep Steps
We are now ready to begin assembling our peanut butter logs. We want to make sure everything is organized before we dive into mixing and rolling.
Prepare The Work Area
We start by clearing and wiping all surfaces. We line a baking sheet with parchment paper so we can place our formed logs quickly. We arrange small bowls for the optional coatings like toasted coconut or chopped nuts. We also set out our measuring tools and any utensils we will use during shaping to keep the process efficient.
Measure Out Ingredients
We measure each ingredient carefully to ensure consistent texture. Precise amounts help our logs form smoothly without sticking. Below is a quick reference for what we need.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Powdered Sugar | 2 cups |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | Pinch |
We place each measured amount into a separate bowl. Laying out these components ahead of time lets us focus on mixing without searching for items mid-recipe.
Make The Peanut Butter Dough
We begin by mixing the dry ingredients until they are evenly combined. Then we introduce the wet ingredients to form a smooth and pliable dough.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- Sift 2 cups of powdered sugar into a large mixing bowl. Break up any lumps so the sugar combines evenly.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and stir to distribute it throughout the sugar.
Blend In Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl measure 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Use a spatula to blend them until smooth.
- Drizzle in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir to incorporate this flavor fully.
- Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Press and fold until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky gently add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it firms up.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Powdered Sugar | 2 cups |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
Shape And Form The Logs
Now we shape our dough into peanut butter logs for that nostalgic look and soft texture. This step creates the signature form we remember from classic candy counters.
Roll And Form Logs
We lightly dust our hands with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. We pinch off walnut-size portions of dough. We roll each portion between our palms to form a smooth cylinder. We aim for logs that measure 2 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. This table shows the approximate yield:
| Log Length (inches) | Estimated Yield |
|---|---|
| 2 | About 15 logs |
We handle the logs gently so they do not crack. If the dough feels too soft we chill it for 5 minutes.
Place Logs On Tray
We position our formed logs on the parchment-lined tray. We leave a little space between them to avoid sticking. Once arranged we chill the tray for about 15 minutes. This helps the logs firm up before adding optional coatings like chopped nuts or shredded coconut.
Chill And Serve
We place our Peanut Butter Logs back on the parchment-lined tray. We move the tray to the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the logs hold their shape.
Once chilled, we gently transfer them to a serving plate. We leave space to keep them from sticking together. We can also drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped nuts over the top. We avoid rough handling to keep each log smooth.
For parties or gatherings, we arrange the logs on a dessert platter. We set them out with small forks so guests can pick their favorite. The chilled texture creates a satisfying bite. The flavor remains sweet and nutty.
| Step | Duration or Method |
|---|---|
| Chill logs | At least 15 minutes in the refrigerator |
| Store logs | In an airtight container for 3 days |
| Serve logs | Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature |
Conclusion
We love how peanut butter logs bring cheerful memories to any occasion
They’re easy enough to pull together even on our busiest days and each bite is packed with sweetness
Experimenting with coatings adds a dash of creativity that keeps everyone guessing
They’ve become a go-to treat for us whether we’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging in a comforting snack
We enjoy how cost-effective and flavorful they are proving that homemade sweets don’t have to be complicated
Every batch reminds us why these logs never go out of style
Frequently Asked Questions
What are peanut butter logs?
Peanut butter logs are simple, nostalgic treats made by mixing smooth peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for a soft dough. They’re shaped into cylinder-like “logs” and often rolled in fun coatings like toasted coconut or finely chopped nuts. After a quick chill, these logs become a sweet, nutty snack perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Which ingredients do I need?
You’ll need creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Optional additions include toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or even melted chocolate for coating. Measure everything precisely to achieve the ideal texture and sweetness in your peanut butter logs.
How do I stop the dough from being too sticky?
If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of powdered sugar until it’s easier to handle. Alternatively, chill the dough for five minutes. This step helps the butter solidify slightly, making the dough easier to shape into logs without forming unwanted lumps or sticking to your hands.
What coatings work best on peanut butter logs?
Popular coatings include toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar. You can also roll them in sprinkles or drizzle them with melted chocolate for extra sweetness. Choosing different coatings adds texture and visual appeal, so feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings to find the perfect match.
How should I store peanut butter logs?
Store peanut butter logs in an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment or wax paper. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain their shape and freshness. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature briefly, or enjoy them chilled for a firmer bite.
Can I make peanut butter logs ahead of time for gatherings?
Yes! Prepare the logs up to a day in advance, then chill them on a parchment-lined tray. When you’re ready to serve, set them on a dessert platter. Providing small forks or toothpicks makes them easy to pick up. These make-ahead treats are perfect for stress-free entertaining and quick, sweet snacking.