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 soft center, they are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving something sweet. The rich peanut butter flavor mixed with creamy chips makes these cookies stand out from the rest. Get ready to impress family and friends with this deliciously simple recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips creates a heavenly taste that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for gatherings, potlucks, or just to enjoy with loved ones. These cookies are sure to please everyone!
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the size of the cookies or swap out ingredients based on your preferences.
- Store Well: These cookies stay fresh for days, making them ideal for meal prepping or late-night snacks.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment: This tool makes it easy to cream the butter and sugars together quickly and thoroughly.
- Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your ingredients organized while preparing the dough.
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!
- 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 the oven to 375°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the following in a mixing bowl:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Cornstarch
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together cubed cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter.
2. Mix until creamy and smooth (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in:
– 1 large egg
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 tsp. vanilla extract
– Milk (optional)
Blend until well mixed.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
On low speed:
Gradually add in your dry mixture about ¼ cup at a time until fully combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Peanut Butter Chips
Add in:
– Peanut butter chips
Mix until incorporated.
Step 7: Chill Dough (Optional)
You can bake immediately or chill the dough for hours up to 3 days for enhanced flavor.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop:
Scoop about 2–3 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll into balls then coat lightly in granulated sugar.
Step 9: Shape Cookies
Place 6–8 dough balls on each cookie sheet. Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
Step 10: Bake
Bake cookies for approximately 9–11 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Step 11: Cool
Let them rest on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack carefully. Sprinkle remaining granulated sugar and flaky sea salt on top if desired.
Enjoy your freshly baked Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying them at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that complements the rich peanut butter flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor for a delicious dessert twist.
Dipped in Chocolate
- Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie for an extra indulgent treat that adds richness and sweetness.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruit or other desserts for a colorful and inviting dessert table.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with both beverages.
Gift Packaging
- Package these cookies in decorative bags or boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays or celebrations.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To ensure your peanut butter chip cookies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
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Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough before baking. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the cookies from spreading too much.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out; they will continue to cook on the sheet.
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Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chips to customize your cookie experience.
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Store Properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These peanut butter chip cookies make an excellent addition to various meals and snacks. Here are some fantastic side dish ideas that pair well with them.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to balance the richness of the cookies.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome side that complements the sweet treat.
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Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese which contrast nicely with the sweet flavors of the cookies.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of fruit or pretzels into melted chocolate alongside the cookies for a fun dessert experience.
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Nut Mix: Offer a bowl of mixed nuts as a crunchy contrast; their savory notes complement the sweet cookie taste.
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Hot Cocoa: Serve these cookies with warm hot cocoa topped with marshmallows for a cozy pairing.
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Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where everyone can top their ice cream with crushed cookie pieces for added crunch.
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Brownie Bites: Pairing these cookies with small brownie bites creates an indulgent dessert duo that’s hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for perfect cookies every time.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using warm butter can lead to flat cookies. Always use cold, cubed butter for the best texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can make cookies tough. Blend until just combined for soft, chewy results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out your cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurements.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Skipping the cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the sheet is essential; they continue to cook slightly from residual heat. Don’t rush this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- For easier thawing, freeze cookie dough balls before baking.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
What makes these the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
These cookies are thick and chewy with a rich peanut butter flavor, creating a delightful texture that’s hard to resist.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor variations to your cookies.
How can I customize my Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for unique flavor combinations that suit your taste.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and shape.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
The Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them as they are or customize them with your favorite additions! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy. Give this recipe a try and savor every bite!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate treat with these Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, where every bite offers a delightful balance of rich peanut butter and creamy chocolate chips. These cookies are thick, chewy, and irresistibly soft at the center, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a festive celebration or a cozy night in. With minimal effort required, this simple recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these warm, nostalgic delights that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cake flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 10 oz peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream together cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter in a stand mixer until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Fold in peanut butter chips gently.
- Scoop dough into balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
