Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. With their thick, chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, they are perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. Each cookie is beautifully bronzed and delivers a soft center that melts in your mouth. Make these cookies to impress friends or enjoy them all for yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of cookies without any hassle.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect as an after-school snack or a dessert at parties, these cookies fit any occasion.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding other ingredients like nuts or chocolate chunks if you desire.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is a great activity to do with kids, making fun memories in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your delicious cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Cookie sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Rubber spatula
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment: Makes creaming the butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a smooth dough.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while promoting even baking.
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!
Dry 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
Wet Ingredients
- 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)
Add-ins
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips (I use Reese’s brand) ~2 cups
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
How to Make Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cake flour
3. Cornstarch
4. Baking powder
5. Baking soda
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. Combine cubed cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter.
2. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Egg Mixture
To the creamed mixture:
1. Add in one large egg, one large egg yolk, vanilla extract, and optional milk.
2. Blend until well combined; scrape down sides as necessary.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Keep the mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add in the dry ingredients mixture—about ¼ cup at a time—until just incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in Peanut Butter Chips
Gently mix in the peanut butter chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out dough into balls about 2-3 tablespoons each.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the prepared cookie sheets.
Step 8: Form Criss-Cross Pattern
Place 6-8 cookie dough balls on each sheet:
Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie gently pressing down; if edges crack slightly, reshape them.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for approximately 9-11 minutes:
Keep an eye on them; remove when tops are golden brown but still soft in the center.
Step 10: Cool
Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them carefully to a cooling rack with a spatula:
Sprinkle tops with additional granulated sugar and flaky sea salt if desired before serving! Enjoy your delectable Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange a variety of cookies, including the peanut butter chip cookies, on a decorative platter. This adds visual appeal and allows guests to enjoy different flavors.
Milk Pairing
- Serve warm cookies with a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture of the milk complements the nutty flavor of the cookies perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two peanut butter chip cookies to make delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor, and enjoy a delightful treat!
Toppings Bar
- Set up a toppings bar with options like chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Guests can customize their cookies for extra fun.
Coffee Companion
- Pair these cookies with freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookies.
Gift Packaging
- Package the cookies in cute boxes or tins as gifts. They make wonderful treats for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
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.
- Use chilled ingredients: Starting with cold butter helps achieve that thick and chewy texture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can develop gluten.
- Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough enhances flavors and prevents spreading.
- Bake in batches: Bake one tray at a time for even cooking; this ensures all cookies are evenly baked.
- Watch baking time closely: Ovens vary, so check the cookies a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the dense cookie texture.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that enhance cookie enjoyment.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruits makes for a delightful accompaniment.
- Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Nutty Granola Bars – These can provide extra crunch and nutty flavors alongside your soft cookies.
- Hot Chocolate – A warm drink like hot chocolate pairs beautifully with chewy peanut butter chip goodness.
- Coffee Cake – For brunch gatherings, serve coffee cake alongside these delicious treats for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong flour: Different flours have different properties. Stick to all-purpose and cake flour for the best texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Spoon and level flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Blend just until combined for softer cookies.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling cookie dough helps it maintain structure while baking. If you have time, chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always preheat and check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Not using parchment paper: This ensures even baking and prevents sticking. Always line your baking sheets for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually on low power for 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies.
How do I make my cookies more chewy?
Adding an extra egg yolk can enhance chewiness, as it adds moisture without increasing dryness.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture but may alter the overall consistency slightly.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough helps maintain shape during baking. Also, ensure you’re using enough flour in your recipe.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cake flour?
You can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with cornstarch—replace each cup of cake flour with 1 cup of all-purpose minus 2 tablespoons plus 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
How long should I cool cookies after baking?
Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them firm up.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts. Enjoy making these delightful treats that are sure to bring joy!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies. These thick and chewy cookies are packed with rich peanut butter flavor and studded with creamy chocolate chips, making them a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, these cookies promise to impress with their soft centers and golden-brown exteriors. Easy to make and customize, they’re perfect for family baking sessions or as a delicious treat to share with friends.
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 (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 (for rolling)
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
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, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a stand mixer, cream cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and optional milk; mix until combined.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in peanut butter chips evenly into the dough.
- Scoop dough balls (2-3 tablespoons each), roll in granulated sugar, and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until golden but soft in the center; let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
