Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat that can instantly bring back a wave of nostalgia. I remember baking these with my mom after school, the delicious smell wafting through our home and enveloping us like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet fix for yourself or planning to impress at a gathering, this recipe has you covered. With a rich combination of creamy peanut butter and gooey chocolate chips, these cookies capture the essence of comfort baking.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes these peanut butter chocolate chip cookies special? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. The harmony of flavors—savory peanut butter mixed with sweet chocolate—creates a cookie that’s not only satisfying but also nostalgic. Kids and adults alike can enjoy these crunchy and chewy delights any time of year, whether for a casual snack or a holiday treat. Plus, they are budget-friendly, calling for ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
“These cookies were a total hit at the office! Everyone was asking for the recipe. The perfect balance of sweet and salty – I’m definitely making them again!” — Jamie R.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making peanut butter chocolate chip cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle. You’ll be mixing, scooping, and baking in no time. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- Cream the peanut butter, shortening, and brown sugar.
- Blend in the egg, milk, and vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients and gradually add them to the wet mixture.
- Fold in those delightful mini chocolate chips.
- Scoop, flatten, and bake until golden.
Let’s dive into the details!
What You’ll Need
To create these delicious cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: This is the star of the show, giving your cookies that rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter-flavored shortening: Adds richness and a lovely texture.
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar (firmly packed): Sweetness and moisture come from this.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Keeps the dough workable and adds moisture.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure for your cookies.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps your cookies rise.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances sweetness.
- 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips: For bursts of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Feel free to swap the butter-flavored shortening with regular butter or coconut oil if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C)—the perfect temperature for cookies.
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, shortening, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, then mix until combined. Pour in the milk and vanilla, mixing just until blended.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips—these little gems are essential for that chocolatey burst!
- Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out the dough, slightly overfilling each scoop, and arrange them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten the dough balls slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the centers appear just slightly wet and the edges are set. Remember, they’ll continue cooking as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on baking sheets for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These peanut butter chocolate chip cookies shine on their own, but here are some creative ways to serve them:
- Pair with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat.
- Serve warm alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Crumble over yogurt or oatmeal for a sweet breakfast twist.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before serving for an enhanced flavor experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your peanut butter chocolate chip cookies fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, place them in the fridge, where they’ll last for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Just ensure they are in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If you’re facing a warm kitchen, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before scooping to help them maintain their shape while baking.
- Taste the Dough: It’s safe to taste the dough since there’s no raw flour involved, but do exercise caution if raw eggs are a concern.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Peanut Butter Swirls: Add swirls of almond butter or Nutella to the batter for a different flavor profile.
- Nuts and Seeds: Mix in chopped peanuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for an added crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for these cookies?
Typically, prep time is about 15 minutes, with baking time taking an additional 10-12 minutes, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I substitute peanut butter for another nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can work well, but keep in mind that they might alter the flavor profile slightly.
How do I store my cookies to keep them soft?
Ensure they are stored in an airtight container. You can also add a slice of bread into the container, which helps maintain moisture.
With this guide, you’re now ready to create a batch of delicious peanut butter chocolate chip cookies that will surely become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, shortening, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and mix until combined. Pour in the milk and vanilla, mixing just until blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out the dough, slightly overfilling each scoop, and arrange them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten the dough balls slightly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the centers appear slightly wet and the edges are set.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
