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This homemade version of Tagalong cookie bites transforms simple ingredients into a nostalgic treat that rivals the beloved Girl Scout cookies. Using Nilla wafers and mini peanut butter cups creates a quick shortcut that delivers all the classic chocolate-peanut butter flavor with minimal effort.
I first created these when my daughter missed the Girl Scout cookie sale season and was devastated about not getting her favorite Tagalongs. These homemade bites have become our special mother-daughter kitchen project every winter since.
Ingredients
- Mini Nilla Wafer cookies: provides the perfect crisp cookie base while saving you from making shortbread from scratch
- Mini peanut butter cups: delivers that signature creamy peanut butter filling without having to mix your own filling
- Chocolate chips: creates the iconic coating that seals in the flavors just like the original cookies
- Peanut butter chips: added to the chocolate coating enhances the peanut flavor throughout each bite
- Optional coconut oil: helps thin chocolate for smoother dipping and creates a shiny finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Arrange thirty six mini Nilla wafers on a parchment lined baking sheet ensuring they have a bit of space between them. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup remarkably easy.
- Melt the Peanut Butter Centers:
- Place a mini peanut butter cup directly in the center of each Nilla wafer. Heat in a 300 degree oven for exactly 90 seconds which is just enough time to slightly soften the peanut butter cups without completely melting them.
- Create the Sandwiches:
- Top each warm peanut butter cup with a second Nilla wafer pressing down very gently. You want to create a sandwich without squishing the peanut butter cup completely flat as the slight mound creates the classic Tagalong shape.
- Chill for Setting:
- Refrigerate the assembled cookie sandwiches for a full 15 to 20 minutes which allows the peanut butter cups to firm up again. This critical step prevents the filling from oozing out during the dipping process.
- Dip in Chocolate:
- Melt chocolate and peanut butter chips together until completely smooth. Dip each chilled cookie sandwich completely in the chocolate mixture lifting with a fork and tapping off excess. The coating should be thin enough to cover but not so thick it creates puddles.
- Final Setting:
- Return the chocolate dipped cookies to the parchment lined sheet and refrigerate until the coating is fully hardened approximately 10 minutes. The chocolates should have a slight shine and snap when bitten.
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The mini peanut butter cups are what make this recipe truly special. The first time I made these with my daughter she snuck so many cups during the unwrapping process that we had to send my husband to the store for more. Now stealing a few peanut butter cups during prep is our little tradition.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
These homemade Tagalong bites actually improve after sitting for 24 hours as the cookie slightly softens from contact with the peanut butter filling. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They remain fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks though they rarely last that long in our house.
Easy Variations
For a mint chocolate version substitute Andes mints for the peanut butter cups and use pure chocolate for dipping. Create almond butter Tagalongs by using almond butter cups instead of peanut butter cups and adding a drop of almond extract to the chocolate coating. The basic technique works with countless filling variations once you master the original.
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Serving Suggestions
Arrange these cookie bites on a tiered serving platter for an impressive dessert table centerpiece. They pair beautifully with cold milk for kids or coffee for adults. During holidays I place them in miniature cupcake liners and arrange them in gift boxes tied with ribbon for teachers and neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular-sized Nilla wafers instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular-sized Nilla wafers. Keep in mind you may need a bit more melted chocolate to fully coat them.
- → How long can I store these tagalong cookie bites?
You can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Refrigeration is recommended to maintain their texture.
- → What should I do if the chocolate is too thick for dipping?
You can thin the chocolate by adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening before melting.
- → Is there an alternative to peanut butter cups for this recipe?
If you're looking for alternatives, you may use caramel-filled chocolates or even chocolate-covered almonds for a different twist.
- → Can I make these bites dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the chocolate chips and peanut butter cups for dairy-free variants available in most stores.