Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. With a straightforward mixing process (dry ingredients into wet ingredients) and a short baking time, you'll have a batch of freshly baked cookies ready to enjoy in no time!

Whether you're hosting a cozy family gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are a great option. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for an indulgent snack, or pack them in school lunch boxes. They also make a wonderful addition to potluck parties, bake sales, and Christmas cookie exchanges. These classic cookies will be a hit no matter where they go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The sweet and salty notes from the peanut butter perfectly complement the indulgent sweetness of the chocolate, resulting in a cookie that is a true treat for your taste buds.
• With a slightly crispy edge and a tender center, each bite is a delightful mix of textures that is both soft and chewy.
• This cookie recipe is easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or baking for a bake sale, these cookies are guaranteed to be a homemade hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Butter - Adds richness and flavor to the cookies while also contributing to their soft and tender texture.
• Eggs - Act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cookie dough together. They also provide moisture and contribute to the overall structure of the cookies.
• Sugar- Light brown and white sugars add sweetness to the cookies while helping with the chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract - Enhances the flavor of the cookies, adding a warm and aromatic note.
• Peanut Butter - Not only infuses the cookies with their distinct nutty flavor but it also contributes to their softness and moistness.
• Baking Powder - Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt - Enhances the flavors in the cookies, balancing the sweetness and adding depth.
• Flour - Provides structure and stability to the cookies binding the ingredients together.
• Milk Chocolate Chips - Adds pockets of melty chocolate throughout the cookies. They provide a smooth and creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the peanut butter flavor.

How To Make Chocolate Chip Cookies with Peanut Butter

Prepare for baking: Pre-heat over to 375°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Assemble the cookie dough: Mix butter, vanilla, and eggs until well blended using a stand or a hand mixer. Next, mix in baking soda and salt. Add peanut butter and mix until well combined. Slowly add the flour and mix until the dough starts to form a clump. Mix in chocolate chips just until combined.

Arrange the cookies: Scoop the cookie dough using a 2-inch cookie scoop. Place the dough on the lined cookie sheets leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Bake and cool: Bake for 10-13 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden brown. Remove the cookies from the baking sheet and place them on a cooling rack. Cool completely. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and better incorporation of flavors.
• For extra flavor, opt for creamy, natural peanut butter instead of processed. Natural peanut butter has a more pronounced nutty taste and doesn't contain any added sugars or preservatives.
• Don't overmix the dough once you've added the flour. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture. Mix just until the flour is incorporated, and then gently fold in the chocolate chips.
• To achieve perfectly shaped cookies, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough. This ensures that each cookie is the same size and will bake evenly.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a twist on the classic recipe, substitute the milk chocolate chips with a combination of dark chocolate chips and chopped walnuts or pecans. The richness of the dark chocolate pairs with the nutty crunch, creating a Chunky Monkey flavor profile.
• If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can easily adapt this recipe by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
• If you're allergic to peanuts or prefer a different nut butter, feel free to swap the peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter.
• Replace the milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips or chunks. The bittersweet notes of dark chocolate will provide a more sophisticated and slightly less sweet cookie.
• Add other fun additions to these cookies. Miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, or chopped dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can add bursts of flavor and texture.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: To store, allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing: To freeze unbaked cookie dough, scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer until the dough balls are firm. Once firm, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake them as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

To freeze baked cookies, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Separate layers of cookies with parchment or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen cookies at room temperature before serving.

FAQ

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe. It will add a crunchy texture with small peanut pieces throughout the cookies.

Can I use a different type of chocolate in place of milk chocolate chips?

You can experiment with different types of chocolate to suit your preferences. Dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even a combination of both can be used as delicious alternatives.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for later use. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

More Cookie Recipes

• Easy Brownie Cookies
• Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
• Raspberry Lemonade Cookies
• Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

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