Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
If you’re looking for a cookie that hits all the right notes, you’ve come to the right place! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are not just any cookies; they are a delightful combination of rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter that will make your taste buds sing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has earned a special place in my heart!
What I love most about these cookies is how quick and easy they are to whip up. You probably have all the ingredients sitting in your pantry right now. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have warm cookies fresh out of the oven in no time!
- Family Favorite: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter makes these cookies irresistible to kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them whenever you crave something sweet.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie is perfectly soft in the middle with just the right amount of chewiness.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are great on their own or paired with a glass of almond milk for a delightful snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This list is full of pantry staples that come together to create something truly special.
- 1/2 cup shortening (regular or butter flavor)
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Variations
One of the best things about this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is how flexible it can be. Feel free to mix it up with these fun variations!
- Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey treat, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough before baking.
- Try Different Nut Butters: Swap out the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist on flavor.
- Include Nuts or Seeds: Toss in some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary preferences.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend together the shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mixing until well combined allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Next, add in your large egg. Mix until just incorporated; this helps give your cookies structure without overmixing them.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor throughout each cookie.
Step 5: Mix Dry Into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Stir gently until fully combined; being careful not to overwork the dough will keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Cookie Sheet
Scoop the cookie dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet, forming 1 to 1 1/2 inch dough balls. Spacing them out allows room for spreading as they bake—no one likes crowded cookies!
Step 7: Create Crisscross Pattern
Using a fork, gently press down each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern on top. Not only does this look lovely, but it also helps them bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake Them Up!
Bake for about 7-8 minutes until the edges are just set. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to crunchy cookies instead of soft ones!
Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying
Let your cookies cool on the cookie sheet for about two minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. This step allows them to firm up slightly while still being warm and delicious!
Enjoy every bite of these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies! They truly encapsulate comfort and joy in each mouthful.
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Baking cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies to the next level!
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your shortening, peanut butter, and egg are at room temperature. This helps them mix more thoroughly, resulting in a smoother dough and more evenly baked cookies.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. The key to soft and chewy cookies is to take them out of the oven when the edges are just set, even if they look slightly underbaked in the center.
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Chill the Dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies. It helps prevent spreading while baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
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Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the total amount of dry ingredients slightly if you add a lot of extras.
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Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to three months for a quick treat later on!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are delicious on their own but can be served in delightful ways that will impress family and friends!
Garnishes
- Drizzle of Chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled cookies adds a touch of elegance and extra chocolatey goodness.
- Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt right before serving enhances the flavors and provides a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Side Dishes
- Milk: A classic pairing! Serve these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk. The creamy texture complements the rich peanut butter beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness to your dessert table. Consider using seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for a vibrant touch.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat. The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination is simply irresistible!
With these tips, garnishes, and side dish suggestions, your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies will surely become a favorite among family and friends! Happy baking!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeks or when you’re craving a sweet treat! Here’s how to store them properly for maximum freshness.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
- Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- They can last for up to one week if stored properly.
Freezing
- For longer storage, freeze the unbaked cookie dough.
- Scoop out the dough balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- The frozen dough can last up to three months.
Reheating
- To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies!
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the cookie’s overall softness.
How long do Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies will stay fresh for about one week. If you freeze the dough, it can last up to three months!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies!
What is the best way to store Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll retain their chewy goodness this way!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies as much as I do! They’re a delightful blend of chocolate and peanut butter that brings comfort and happiness with every bite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different mix-ins or toppings to make this recipe your own. Enjoy baking these treats, and happy munching!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re craving a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cocoa and creamy peanut butter, look no further than these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies! Perfectly soft and chewy, these cookies are quick to whip up, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create these indulgent snacks in no time. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of almond milk, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to bake and enjoy the comforting bliss of homemade goodness!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shortening (regular or butter flavor)
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract; mix until well blended.
- Add the egg and mix until just incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture; stir until fully combined.
- Scoop dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet to form balls about 1 to 1½ inches in size.
- Press down each dough ball with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 7-8 minutes until edges are set; do not overbake.
- Cool on the cookie sheet for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
