Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their thick, chewy texture and soft center, they deliver a delightful peanut butter flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging yourself, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Deliciously Chewy: The combination of flours creates a perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile: Great for birthdays, holidays, or just an everyday treat; they suit every occasion.
- Nutty Flavor: The creamy peanut butter gives these cookies a rich taste that peanut butter lovers will adore.
- Customizable: Adjust the size or add your favorite mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the best peanut butter chip cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Baking sheets
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures that your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed together for light, fluffy dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.
- Cookie scoop: Helps create uniformly-sized cookies so they bake evenly.
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)
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips(I use Reese’s brand) ~2 cups
For Finishing Touches:
- 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 to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix 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 for later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the cold cubed butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter for about 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in:
1. 1 large egg
2. 1 large egg yolk
3. 1 tsp. vanilla extract
4. 1 Tbsp. milk (if using)
Blend until well mixed.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Keep the mixer on low speed while gradually adding the dry ingredients:
– Add about ¼ cup at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in Peanut Butter Chips
Gently fold in:
– The entire bag of peanut butter chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out about 2–3 tablespoons of dough into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
Step 8: Shape Cookies on Baking Sheet
Place 6–8 cookie balls on each lined baking sheet. Use a fork to create a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 9–11 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them as oven times may vary!
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!
Let cookies rest on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack with a spatula. Sprinkle with remaining granulated sugar and flaky sea salt if desired before indulging!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or a more elaborate dessert, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Milk
- Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination that enhances the peanut butter flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for a delightful treat perfect for warm days.
Warm from the Oven
- Serve cookies warm right out of the oven. The gooey peanut butter chips and soft texture make them irresistible.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of a warm cookie for an indulgent dessert option.
Cookie Sundae
- Crumble cookies over vanilla ice cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup for a gourmet sundae twist.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruit or other desserts for an eye-catching presentation at gatherings.
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.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh; this impacts the rise and texture of your cookies.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level it off to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time range for perfect doneness.
- Let Them Cool: Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack; this helps maintain their shape.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding nuts or other chocolate chips for added flavor and texture variations.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Enjoying your Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies is even better when paired with delicious sides. Here are some fantastic options that complement these tasty treats.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A rich, creamy shake pairs perfectly with the nutty flavors of peanut butter, creating a decadent dessert experience.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits; this light dish is a great contrast to the rich cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage adds warmth and comfort, enhancing the overall cookie enjoyment during snack time.
- Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside your cookies for a unique sweet-and-savory pairing that will surprise guests.
- Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide additional crunch and nutrition next to your chewy peanut butter chip delights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Incorrect measuring of flour: Always spoon and level your flour. Scooping directly from the bag can pack it down, resulting in dry cookies.
- Using warm butter: Ensure that your butter is cold and cubed. Warm butter can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking.
- Not chilling the dough: If you skip chilling, your cookies might turn out flat. Chilling helps them maintain their shape.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies and take them out when they are just golden. They will continue to cook while cooling on the sheet.
- Neglecting to use parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking. Always line your cookie sheets for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
-
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
-
- Tip: Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
-
- Duration: Freeze for up to three months.
-
- Tip: Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies chewy?
To achieve chewier cookies, ensure you’re using both all-purpose and cake flour as specified in the recipe. The combination gives that perfect texture!
Can I substitute natural peanut butter?
While natural peanut butter can be used, it may alter the texture slightly. Creamy brands like Jif or Skippy are recommended for best results.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The tops should appear golden brown but slightly soft to the touch. They will firm up as they cool.
What can I add to enhance my Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor!
Can I use different types of sugar?
Yes! You can experiment with coconut sugar or alternative sweeteners, but this may change the taste and texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious! Their thick, chewy texture makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Enjoy baking these delightful cookies with family and friends!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion. These cookies boast a thick, chewy texture with a soft center, delivering an irresistible peanut butter flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging yourself, this easy recipe is sure to impress. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these cookies are customizable and versatile, making them an ideal choice for birthdays, holidays, or just an everyday snack.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cake flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 10 oz peanut butter chips
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp milk (optional)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for finishing touches)
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, corn starch, and salt; set aside.
- Cream cold butter with sugars and peanut butter until smooth.
- Mix in egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and optional milk until well combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients until fully incorporated; fold in peanut butter chips.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on lined baking sheets; press down with a fork for a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until golden brown; allow to cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
