Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their thick, chewy texture and delightful peanut butter flavor, they are a favorite for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a sweet snack, or looking for a homemade gift, these cookies will not disappoint. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate chips makes each bite utterly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates a mouthwatering flavor that you won’t forget.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the size of the cookies or add in extras like nuts or different types of chips for a personal touch.
- Perfectly Chewy: These cookies strike the right balance between soft and chewy, making them ideal for dunking in milk.
- Great for Any Occasion: Be it holidays, school events, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies fit perfectly into any setting.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on making the best peanut butter chip cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking experience.
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 ingredients quick and easy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your dry and wet ingredients separate during preparation.
- Cookie sheets: Provide an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection without sticking.
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!
For the Cookie Dough:
- 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)
For the Topping:
- 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. 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 soda
5. Baking powder
6. Salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together cold cubed butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter until smooth (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in one large egg, one egg yolk, vanilla extract, and milk if using:
1. Blend until well mixed.
2. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides if necessary.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
With your mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add in the dry ingredients mixture about ¼ cup at a time.
Step 6: Fold in Peanut Butter Chips
Once combined:
1. Add in the peanut butter chips until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Chill Dough (Optional)
At this point:
1. You may choose to bake immediately or chill your dough for several hours or up to three days for enhanced flavor.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out the dough into balls about 2–3 tablespoons each.
2. Roll each ball into granulated sugar.
Step 9: Prepare for Baking
On each cookie sheet:
1. Place 6–8 cookie dough balls.
2. Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven:
1. For approximately 9–11 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
2. Keep an eye on them as ovens vary; pulling them out slightly underbaked is key.
Step 11: Cool Down
Let cookies rest on the sheet for a few minutes before:
1. Transferring them carefully onto a cooling rack using a spatula.
2. Optionally sprinkle with remaining granulated sugar and flaky sea salt before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously chewy best peanut butter chip cookies!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can enjoy them. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements the rich peanut butter flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwich
- Create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This makes for a delightful dessert treat, especially in warm weather.
Add a Drizzle of Chocolate
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops of the cookies for an extra indulgent touch. The chocolate adds a rich layer that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
Warm from the Oven
- Serve these cookies warm directly from the oven. The gooey peanut butter chips will melt in your mouth, offering the ultimate comfort food experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Enjoy these cookies alongside fresh fruit, such as apple slices or bananas. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances well with the richness of the cookies.
For Special Occasions
- Present these cookies on a decorative platter at parties or gatherings. They make for an impressive dessert choice and are sure to please guests of all ages.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To achieve cookie perfection, consider these helpful tips during your baking process.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor and texture. Old baking soda or stale flour can affect your cookies.
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Measure Accurately: Spoon and level your flours rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies that may not rise properly.
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Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavors.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Pull them out when they are just golden brown at the edges for a soft center.
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Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts along with peanut butter chips for more flavor variety.
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Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cooling contrast to warm cookies, enhancing their flavor profile.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake complements the nutty flavors of peanut butter and adds a rich treat element.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with berries and melons offers freshness that balances out the richness of peanut butter.
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Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate creates a comforting winter treat perfect for cozy evenings.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of coffee or tea serves as an excellent pairing, bringing out the flavors in both beverages and cookies.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits; this refreshing dish contrasts beautifully with the density of peanut butter chip cookies.
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Nuts and Dried Fruits: A small bowl of mixed nuts or dried fruits provides crunch and sweetness, creating a nice textural complement when enjoyed alongside the cookies.
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Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses adds savory notes that balance out sweet desserts, making it an unexpected yet delightful pairing option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong flour: Not using both all-purpose and cake flour can lead to a different texture. Stick to the recipe for the best results.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy cookie.
- Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps develop flavors and improves texture. If you have time, chill your dough for at least an hour before baking.
- Ignoring oven temperatures: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and check for doneness a minute or two early.
- Skimping on peanut butter chips: The chips are essential for flavor. Use the full amount recommended in the recipe for that delicious peanut butter taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Don’t overdo it!
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies.
How do I make my cookies extra chewy?
To achieve extra chewiness, add an extra egg yolk and ensure you don’t overbake them.
Can I substitute natural peanut butter?
Yes, but natural peanut butter may alter the texture slightly. Creamy varieties like Jif or Skippy work best.
What can I add to customize my Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even oatmeal for added texture and flavor.
How long do these cookies last?
The Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies will last about 5 days at room temperature if stored properly.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture to your cookies while still delivering that rich flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later, they are sure to bring joy with every bite!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort of Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, a delightful treat that combines thick, chewy texture with the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips. Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy night in or a festive gathering—these cookies are sure to become a favorite among kids and adults alike. With their irresistible taste and simple preparation, you can easily whip up a batch to satisfy your sweet cravings or share with loved ones.
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
- 10 oz peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a stand mixer, cream cubed butter with brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in peanut butter chips gently.
- Scoop dough into balls (about 2–3 tablespoons each) and place on prepared sheets; create a crisscross pattern with a fork.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until golden brown; allow to cool slightly before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (34g)
- Calories: 157
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
