Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Introduction to Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Oh, that magic of chocolate and peanut butter! It’s that warm sensory blanket, happiness ensues every time I bake these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies – not just cookies but a resolution to a busy day. Indulge yourself and loved ones after the long week of work. To consider biting into a warm, gooey cookie that just dissolves in your mouth … Heaven … Believe me, believe me, when you have finally pulled these together they’ll reign as the number one recipe for ‘special occasions’ or just to add some light to your gloomy weeknight … the joy is all in the simpleness of indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Yum, sensory pleasure in every bite from these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. Seamingly easy to prepare, at times of low investment and many flavors concentrated into one. The pleasant soft-chocolate cookie outside and the filling of creamy peanut butter are completely enticing, which I why could not believe they were so simple to make. Yeah, perfect for moms like us. You don’t have a lot of free time, so it’s great that most of that forty minutes is inactive and they’re ready to pop into the oven for unexpected company or just to treat the kids.

Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is key to unlocking the magic of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious treat:

• Peanut butter: This creamy delight adds that beloved nutty flavor and richness to your cookies.
• Powdered sugar: It sweetens the peanut butter filling while giving it a velvety texture.
• Whole milk: Used in both the filling and dough, it keeps everything moist and delightful.
• Vanilla extract: A dash of this adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances all the sweetness.
• Salt: Just a pinch helps to balance all the flavors and brings out the sweetness beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: The base for your cookie dough, providing structure and the perfect chewy texture.
• Cocoa powders: Using both unsweetened and black cocoa adds depth and rich chocolatey goodness.
• Chocolate fudge pudding mix: This allows for an incredibly moist cookie with a decadent taste.
• Powdered milk: The secret ingredient for a little extra creaminess (and it’s perfect for those who like to bake with pantry staples).
• Baking soda: This helps the cookies rise a bit, giving them that nice soft bite.
• Granulated sugar: A must for sweetness and caramelization that creates a slight crunch.
• Salted butter: Softened, it creates an incredible richness in the dough—try not to skip this one!
• Large eggs: Provide moisture and help bind everything together for that perfect texture.
• Reese’s Pieces and Peanut Butter Chips: These are the fun aspects! They bring a pop of color, crunch, and extra peanut butter flavor to each bite.

Don’t worry, you can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article available for printing. Now, let’s get ready to create cookie magic!

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

Let’s start with the peanut butter filling! In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and whole milk. I recommend using creamy peanut butter for that smooth texture. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat these ingredients together until it resembles a thick, smooth paste. It should be spreadable but not runny. Once it’s ready, set it aside to firm up slightly while we work on the cookie dough. Trust me; this filling is going to blow your mind when you taste it!

Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Before diving into the dough, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step as it ensures your cookies bake evenly. Next, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Your kitchen will smell fabulous in no time!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, black cocoa powder, chocolate fudge pudding mix, powdered milk, salt, and baking soda. Be sure to sift the dry ingredients to avoid any lumps. This little step can make all the difference in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once mixed, set this bowl aside. We’re one step closer to cookie greatness!

Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, cream together the granulated sugar and softened salted butter. Beat them together for about one minute until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. The color will shift slightly, appearing pale and airy. Then, add in one large egg, mixing until fully combined, followed by the egg yolk, whole milk, and vanilla extract. When it’s all blended together, the mixture should look smooth and slightly glossy, creating a perfect base for our cookie dough!

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, we’ll integrate the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the buttery goodness you just created. Stir gently using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until incorporated. Next, add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies, and we want these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies to be soft and chewy, not like rocks!

Shape the Cookies and Add Filling

Let’s bring this cookie to life! Using a #10 cookie scoop, portion the dough into about 4 to 4.2-ounce balls. Flatten each ball slightly and shape it into a bowl. This step is essential as we’ll be adding a dollop of our delightful peanut butter filling. Place about one ounce of the filling into the center of each dough bowl, then fold the dough around the filling. Roll it tightly to create a smooth ball, sealing the filling inside. Be careful not to leave any gaps—you want that melty goodness inside!

Bake and Cool

Time to bring these beauties to the oven! Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, sealing side down, allowing about 3 to 4 inches of space between them. This gives them room to spread. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the tops look soft and matte. They may seem underdone, but don’t worry! They’ll firm up as they cool. Let them cool on the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for; it’ll be so worth it!

Tips for Success

• Measure your ingredients accurately to maintain the cookie’s perfect texture.
• Keep butter at room temperature for easier creaming.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to spread.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
• Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes for a thicker cookie.
• Enjoy these cookies warm for the best melting experience!

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet works perfectly. You can also use a large roasting pan as an alternative.
• Parchment paper: Ideal for preventing sticking. If you don’t have it, a silicone baking mat is a great substitute.
• Mixing bowls: Have at least two—medium and large—for mixing ingredients efficiently.
• Cookie scoop: A #10 or any large cookie scoop helps keep sizes consistent, but using your hands works too!
• Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will speed things up. Whisking by hand is fine if time allows!

Variations

• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Healthier twist: Use natural peanut butter and replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar. This will lower the refined sugar content.
• Nut-free option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a delicious and allergy-friendly cookie.
• Minty addition: Add ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cookie dough for a refreshing mint chocolate twist. Perfect for the holidays!
• Enhanced chocolate flavor: Mix in chocolate chips alongside the Reese’s Pieces for an even more decadent treat.
• Vegan adaptation: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter or coconut oil for a delightful vegan cookie.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies with a glass of chilled milk for a nostalgic treat.
• Serve warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• For an elevated presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies.
• They also make a great addition to a dessert platter for parties!

FAQs about Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

As someone who’s been through the chocolate peanut butter cookie-making journey, I often get asked a few common questions. Let’s dive into some FAQs that might help you out!

Can I make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and shape it into balls. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake straight from the fridge!

What should I do if my cookies are too soft when they come out of the oven?

No worries! Cookies may seem underdone at first; they’ll harden upon cooling. Allow them to rest on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. If they’re still too soft, you can bake them for a few extra minutes. Remember, they should look matte on top!

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

Yes, you can! Almond butter or cashew butter work well. Just make sure they’re creamy to maintain that delightful consistency. If you’re catering to nut allergies, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I add more chocolate to these cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in additional chocolate chips or chunks along with the Reese’s Pieces for a double chocolate delight. Your family will love the extra sweetness!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies brings a wave of joy that’s hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful combination of rich chocolatey goodness and creamy peanut butter indulgence. It’s an experience that feels like warm memories being revived on a busy day. Whether you share them with family or savor a few yourself, these cookies hold the magic of connection. I hope you find as much pleasure in making and eating them as I do. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful treat, and make memories that last beyond the kitchen!

Print