Nutter Butter Referees
Nutter Butter Referee Cookies are a playful twist on a classic favorite! With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies transform into adorable, whimsical referees that are sure to bring a smile to any dessert table. The combination of the peanut-buttery Nutter Butter cookies with the creamy white chocolate coating and pops of vibrant color from the candy melts and eyeballs creates a delightful treat that not only tastes fantastic but also looks impressive.
Table of Contents
I first made these cookies for a family gathering, where sports and sweets were the highlight of the day. Everyone from the kids to the adults couldn’t get enough of them! The moment I took my first bite, the sweetness of the candy and the richness of the nutty cookie were a match made in heaven. It’s so easy to recreate this fun dessert in your own kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy those cheerful little faces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, these cookies won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy white chocolate and nutty peanut butter makes every bite a delight.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These cookies are fun and cute—perfect for any party or snack table.
- Flexible Serving: Great for tailgating, birthdays, or even a cozy movie night at home!
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily find gluten-free Nutter Butters for a safe tweak.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 Nutter Butter cookies: These iconic peanut butter cookies form the base of our referees. Look for the classic version to ensure the best flavor.
- 3 ounces white almond bark or white candy melts: This is used for the coating that gives the ref cookies their uniform look. Both options are easy to work with and create a smooth finish.
- ⅓ cup black candy melts: A great way to add detail and personality to the cookies. If unavailable, dark chocolate can be a substitute, although the flavor may be slightly different.
- 24 candy eyeballs: Adding a touch of whimsy with these little eyes brings the referees to life! You can find them in craft stores or online.
How to Make Nutter Butter Referees
Melt the White Coating: Start by melting 3 ounces of white almond bark or white candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until completely smooth. This will give your cookies a beautiful, glossy coat.
Dip the Cookies: Take each Nutter Butter cookie and dip it halfway into the melted white coating, tilting it slightly to create that desired referee uniform look. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
Melt the Black Chocolate: Next, melt ⅓ cup of black candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl—again using the same 30-second intervals to avoid burning. Once melted, transfer the black melted candy into a piping bag fitted with a small tip (like Wilton #3) for precision.
Pipe the Referee Stripes: Carefully pipe thin black stripes onto the white-coated section of each cookie to mimic the classic striped referee shirt. With a little practice, this will become your favorite part!
Add the Candy Eyes: To finish off your Nutter Butter Referees, dab a tiny amount of melted candy on the back of each candy eyeball and press it onto the cookie. For additional details, use the black candy melts to pipe small mouths and hair—making your cookies even more adorable.
Set the Cookies: Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature or pop them into the refrigerator briefly until the coating is firm. This will only take about 10-15 minutes, so you won’t be waiting long to enjoy your creations!
Storing & Reheating
These delightful cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze your Nutter Butter Referee Cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy them again, let them thaw at room temperature and have a sweet nibble! Keeping in mind, texture may slightly change after freezing, but a quick refresh in the microwave for 10 seconds can help melt that coating back to its original yumminess.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid the temptation to rush through melting the chocolate; a gentle heat will keep your coating smooth.
- For perfect piping, make sure the black candy melts aren’t too hot, as this may cause them to spread.
- If you can find them, consider using chocolate candy melts for the eyes for an extra fun touch.
- Get creative with the faces! No two Nutter Butter Referees have to look the same—let your imagination run wild!
- If you have a chocolate preference, feel free to mix it up by using colorful candy melts to match your event!
These Nutter Butter Referee Cookies not only serve as a delicious treat but also bring a sprinkle of joy and creativity to any occasion. Whether it’s a sports event or a fun family gathering, I encourage you to get those little feet in the kitchen and indulge in some cookie fun!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use different candies for decorating?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch it up with other candies or sprinkles instead of candy eyeballs, depending on what you have on hand. Mini chocolate chips can also be adorable for eyes!
How do I keep the coating smooth?
When melting chocolate, make sure to stir frequently and don’t overheat. Keeping your bowl and utensils dry will also help the chocolate maintain its silky texture.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookies a day or two in advance. Just store them properly and decorate them closer to the time you plan to serve them for the best freshness.
What should I do if the candy melts harden?
If the melted candy hardens while you’re decorating, simply reheat it in the microwave for 10-second intervals until it becomes smooth and pliable again. This will make decorating an easy and enjoyable task!
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📖 Recipe Card
Nutter Butter Referees
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts & Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Nutter Butter Referees are an exciting treat perfect for any occasion. With their delicious flavor, simple preparation, and delightful presentation, these cookies are a fun and engaging dessert that’s sure to impress. Made with nutter butter cookies, candy melts, and candy eyeballs, they are a hit for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 nutter butter cookies
- 3 ounces white almond bark or white candy melts
- ⅓ cup black candy melts
- 24 candy eyeballs
Instructions
- Melt the white almond bark or white candy melts according to package directions until smooth.
- Dip each Nutter Butter cookie halfway into the melted white coating to create the referee uniform. Let the excess drip off, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt the black candy melts and transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small tip (I used Wilton #3). Pipe thin stripes onto the white coating.
- Dab a small amount of melted candy onto the back of each candy eyeball, then apply it to the cookies. Use the black candy melts to pipe mouths and hair.
- Let the cookies sit at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until the coating is firm.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Feel free to personalize the cookie designs with your favorite colors and toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
