Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a school event, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies offer the perfect combination of chewy and soft textures. Their nutty flavor is enhanced by rich peanut butter chips, making them irresistible. This recipe ensures you’ll have perfectly bronzed cookies every time, making it the best way to satisfy your peanut butter cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Thick and Chewy: These cookies are not just sweet; they boast a lovely chewy consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze, even for beginners.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—be it parties, after-school snacks, or cozy evenings at home.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolatey chips creates an indulgent taste experience.
- Customizable: Add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts can easily be incorporated for extra flair.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before starting your cookie adventure!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool ensures your ingredients blend smoothly and evenly, which is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture.
- Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop helps maintain uniform sizes for even baking, resulting in cookies that look as good as they taste.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These create a non-stick surface that prevents cookies from sticking while making cleanup easy.
Ingredients
These Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are thick, chewy, and soft-centered. Packed with a nutty flavor and baked until beautifully bronzed on top. This is the BEST way to make them!
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 3/4 cup cake flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tsp. corn starch
- 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. baking soda
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup cold, unsalted butter, cubed (8 Tbsp.)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp. milk (optional)
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips (I use Reese’s brand) ~2 cups
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- flaky sea salt (optional)
How to Make Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare two cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cake flour
3. Cornstarch
4. Baking powder
5. Baking soda
6. Salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine the cubed cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter.
2. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in:
1. The large egg
2. The large egg yolk
3. The vanilla extract
4. The optional milk
Blend until fully mixed, scraping down any mixture stuck on the sides with a rubber spatula.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add in the dry ingredients from Step 2 about ¼ cup at a time until just combined.
Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Chips
Gently fold in the peanut butter chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Chill Dough (Optional)
You have two options here:
Bake immediately
Or chill the dough for a few hours or up to 3 days for enhanced flavor.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out about 2–3 tablespoons of dough per cookie ball.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the cookie sheet.
Step 9: Create Criss-Cross Pattern
Arrange 6–8 cookies on each sheet:
Use a fork to press down gently onto each ball creating a criss-cross pattern.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake for approximately 9–11 minutes or until the tops are golden brown but still soft in the center.
Step 11: Cool Down
Let cookies rest on the sheet for several minutes before transferring them carefully to a cooling rack using a spatula.
Enjoy these delectable treats sprinkled with granulated sugar and flaky sea salt!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a few creative serving suggestions. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or pair them with your favorite treats for an unforgettable dessert experience.
With Milk
- Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for the classic combination that everyone loves. The creamy texture of the milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. Vanilla, chocolate, or even salted caramel work wonderfully!
Topped with Flaky Sea Salt
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top right after baking. This enhances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a satisfying crunch.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the rich cookies beautifully.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your cookies on a platter with other desserts like brownies or mini cheesecakes. This makes for an impressive dessert spread at gatherings.
Warmed Up
- Reheat your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving. This makes them soft and gooey again, giving you that fresh-baked taste.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in achieving cookie perfection.
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Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
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Use Quality Peanut Butter: Opt for high-quality creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for better flavor and texture in your cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Baking too hot or too cool can affect cookie texture.
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Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor variations.
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Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some great options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
- Chocolate Milkshake: The rich flavors of a chocolate milkshake enhance the nutty notes of peanut butter in these cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Coffee: A cup of coffee offers a bitter contrast that nicely offsets the sweetness of peanut butter chip cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience on chilly days.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits alongside cookies for a fun twist on dessert!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch for:
- Using the wrong flour: Different flours can lead to different textures. Stick to the specified all-purpose and cake flour for the best results.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for that perfect chewy texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough can help prevent spreading. If you have time, chill your dough for better cookies.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and browning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Bake straight from frozen; add a couple of extra minutes to baking time.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies:
What makes these the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
These cookies stand out due to their thick, chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but natural peanut butter may alter the texture slightly. The cookies may be less sweet and more crumbly.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Look for golden brown tops. They may seem soft initially but will firm up as they cool.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even oats for added flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as-is. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a true delight for peanut butter lovers! With their thick, chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Each bite is filled with creamy peanut butter chips that melt in your mouth, making them perfect for family gatherings, school events, or simply enjoying at home. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe guarantees perfectly bronzed cookies every time. Indulge in the ultimate comfort treat with these delicious cookies!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp milk (optional)
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a stand mixer, beat together cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until creamy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and optional milk; mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients until just combined; fold in peanut butter chips.
- Scoop dough into balls, roll in granulated sugar, and place on cookie sheets.
- Use a fork to create a criss-cross pattern on each cookie.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes or until golden brown but soft in the center.
- Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
