Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their soft, chewy texture combined with the rich flavor of peanut butter makes them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, need a sweet snack, or just want to indulge in something comforting, these cookies fit the bill. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Chewy: These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have fresh cookies ready in about 20 minutes.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or late-night snacks; they never disappoint!
- Nutty Flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter paired with sweet chocolate chips makes these cookies a standout dessert.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to adjust the size of the cookies or add your favorite nuts for extra crunch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugars easy, ensuring a smooth batter without much effort.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success; using these ensures your cookies come out perfect every time.
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!
Ingredients:
– 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: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
all-purpose flour,
cake flour,
corn starch,
baking powder,
baking soda,
salt.
Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Mixture
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Add cubed cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter.
2. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until it is creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in:
one large egg,
one large egg yolk,
vanilla extract,
and optional milk.
Blend until combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
With your mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture.
2. I recommend adding about ¼ cup at a time until fully combined.
Step 6: Mix in Peanut Butter Chips
Gently fold in:
peanut butter chips until incorporated evenly throughout the dough.
Step 7: Chill Dough (Optional)
You can either bake right away or chill the dough for a few hours up to three days for enhanced flavor.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out about 2–3 tablespoons of dough per cookie.
2. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll in granulated sugar.
Step 9: Shape Cookies
Place six to eight cookies on each sheet:
1. Use a fork to create crisscross patterns on top of each cookie.
2. If edges crack slightly, gently reshape them back together.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 9–11 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Keep an eye on them as ovens vary; pulling them out just before they look done ensures chewiness!
Step 11: Cool Down
Let rest on cookie sheets for a few minutes before transferring carefully to a cooling rack. Sprinkle with additional granulated sugar and flaky sea salt if desired! Enjoy your delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can be enjoyed in many ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening, here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination that brings out their rich peanut butter flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich with your favorite ice cream flavor. The warm cookies will melt the ice cream slightly, creating a delightful treat.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies before serving. This adds a rich contrast to the peanut butter chips and makes them look gourmet.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside brownies, fruit, and other sweets for an impressive dessert spread at any gathering.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. The freshness balances the richness of the cookies, creating a satisfying snack.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To ensure your Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that will make your baking experience even better.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your cookies.
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Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavors.
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Do not overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
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Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary greatly; start checking your cookies around 8 minutes to avoid overbaking them. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
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Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to one week and can be frozen for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Enjoying these Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some perfect options that enhance your dessert experience:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a creamy chocolate milkshake that pairs well with the nutty flavor of peanut butter.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting drink that complements sweet treats perfectly.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of your peanut butter chip cookies.
- Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn makes for an unexpectedly delightful crunchy side dish alongside soft cookies.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These rich desserts can offer variety while keeping in line with sweet flavors.
- Nut Mixes: A bowl of assorted nuts complements peanut butter flavors and adds crunch to your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home bakers make simple mistakes when preparing the best peanut butter chip cookies. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong flour: Always use a combination of all-purpose and cake flour for the best texture. Avoid sticking to just one type, as it can alter the cookies’ chewiness.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in flat cookies. Chill your dough for at least an hour for optimal results.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary greatly, so always preheat and check your cookies a minute or two early. This prevents overbaking.
- Skipping the salt on top: Adding flaky sea salt enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step, as it balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; this allows you to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; keep an eye on them to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
These cookies are thick, chewy, and perfectly balanced with peanut butter flavor, making them irresistible treats.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and a delightful crunch to your cookies.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The best indicator is a golden-brown top. The edges should look set while the center remains soft.
Can I add chocolate chips too?
Absolutely! Mixing in chocolate chips along with peanut butter chips creates a delicious variation that many love.
How should I store my peanut butter chip cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
These best peanut butter chip cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different mix-ins or toppings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday treats!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies. These cookies feature a perfect blend of soft, chewy textures and rich peanut butter flavor, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, packing lunchboxes, or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe delivers. With just a handful of simple ingredients and quick preparation steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time. Their nutty goodness paired with sweet chocolate chips guarantees that they will be a favorite among family and friends. Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking 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 cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Add egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract (and optional milk), mixing until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in peanut butter chips evenly into the dough.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets and shape cookies as desired.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until golden brown; cool slightly before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
