Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers! With their thick, chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a party, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or indulging in a late-night dessert, these cookies will satisfy your cravings. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The nutty taste of peanut butter combined with sweet chocolate chips makes each bite heavenly.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, baking cookies has never been easier.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just because! These cookies fit any occasion.
- Texture Perfection: Enjoy thick, chewy cookies with a soft center that stays moist even days later.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or swap out the peanut butter chips for chocolate chips if desired!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these delicious cookies, gather your equipment. Having everything ready will make your process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars quick and easy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Ingredients
These Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are thick, chewy, and soft-centered. Packed with a nutty flavor and are 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). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream the Mixture
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine 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 to the creamed mixture:
1. One large egg,
2. One large egg yolk,
3. One teaspoon vanilla extract,
4. One tablespoon milk (if using).
5. Blend until thoroughly mixed.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture about ¼ cup at a time.
2. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Peanut Butter Chips
Add in:
1. The entire bag of peanut butter chips.
2. Mix until incorporated but do not over-mix.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Scoop dough portions about 2–3 tablespoons in size.
2. Roll each into a ball then coat lightly in granulated sugar.
Step 8: Shape Cookies
On each cookie sheet:
1. Space out 6–8 dough balls.
2. Use a fork to press down each cookie creating a crisscross pattern.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven:
1. For approximately 9–11 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
2. Keep an eye on them; pull them out slightly underbaked for chewier cookies.
Step 10: Cool Down
Let cookies rest on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring:
1. Use a spatula to move them to a cooling rack carefully.
2. Sprinkle tops with remaining granulated sugar and flaky sea salt if desired.
Enjoy your freshly baked Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a treat at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Pair with Milk
- Cold glass of milk – The classic pairing that enhances the cookies’ flavors and balances their sweetness.
Serve Warm with Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream scoop – Place a warm cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Create Cookie Sandwiches
- Fill with frosting – Spread creamy frosting between two cookies for a decadent treat that is sure to impress.
Offer with Coffee or Tea
- Freshly brewed coffee – The rich flavors of coffee complement the nutty taste of peanut butter perfectly.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Slices of banana or strawberries – Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
Garnish with Flaky Sea Salt
- Light sprinkle on top – Enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile by adding a touch of flaky sea salt before serving.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Making the perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies takes a bit of technique. Here are some tips to ensure they come out just right.
- Chill the dough – Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps enhance flavor and improves texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
- Adjust baking time – Every oven is different; keep an eye on them and take them out when they are slightly underbaked for that chewy center.
- Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness longer.
- Experiment with mix-ins – Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
When serving Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that complement their rich flavors well.
- Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries to create a light dessert option.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses pairs beautifully, providing savory notes against the sweet cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue – Melted chocolate for dipping adds an interactive element to your cookie experience.
- Nut Mix – A bowl of assorted nuts provides crunch and contrasts nicely with soft cookies.
- Coffee Cake – A slice alongside your cookies makes for a delightful brunch option.
- Smoothies – Fruit smoothies can serve as a refreshing beverage alongside your sweets.
- Homemade Whipped Cream – This light topping can enhance both cookies and other desserts served at your gathering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies is easy, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can prevent your cookies from mixing well. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Stop mixing once you see no dry flour or streaks of butter.
- Using the wrong flour: Different types of flour affect texture. Stick to all-purpose and cake flour as specified for the best results.
- Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps flavors develop and prevents cookies from spreading too much. If time allows, chill your dough for at least an hour.
- Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake, and take them out when they look slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to keep cookies from sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- For unbaked dough, shape into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking tray and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
The combination of all-purpose and cake flour gives these cookies their unique texture, while the creamy peanut butter and chips create rich flavor.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your cookies but may slightly affect their chewiness.
How can I customize my Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
Feel free to mix in other types of chips like chocolate or add nuts for additional crunch and flavor.
Are these cookies safe to eat raw?
While it’s generally advisable not to eat raw cookie dough due to egg content, you can use pasteurized eggs or omit them if you want to enjoy raw dough safely.
How should I store my leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you plan to keep them longer than a week.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their thick, chewy texture makes them delightful treats that everyone loves. Feel free to customize with different mix-ins or toppings for even more deliciousness!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies! With their thick, chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy afternoon snack or a gathering with friends. The delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates an irresistible treat that will leave everyone craving more. Easy to whip up and customizable to your liking, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also elevate your baking game. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
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 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- 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 mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients until just mixed; fold in peanut butter chips.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets and shape into balls; flatten slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until golden brown. Cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
