Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies fit the bill. They’re easy to make and offer a rich, nutty flavor with each bite. With their thick and chewy texture, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chips creates a deliciously satisfying cookie.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies are thick and chewy on the inside while having a slightly crisp exterior.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time!
- Versatile Enjoyment: Great for any occasion—serve them at parties, as an after-school snack, or just because!
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing these cookies is simple and requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- Cookie scoop
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugars together quickly without tiring your arms.
- Rubber Spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing of ingredients.
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 your oven to 375°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together:
1. Cold, unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar
Mix for about 2–3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in:
1. Large egg
2. Large egg yolk
3. Vanilla extract
4. Milk (if using)
Blend until well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
On low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture about ¼ cup at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Mix in Peanut Butter Chips
Gently fold in the peanut butter chips until evenly distributed through the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop, form dough balls about 2–3 tablespoons in size. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the cookie sheet.
Step 8: Shape Cookies
Place 6–8 cookie balls on one cookie sheet at a time, using a fork to create a crisscross pattern on each one.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake for approximately 9–11 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remember that ovens vary; keep an eye on your cookies!
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
After removing from the oven, allow them to rest on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them carefully to a cooling rack. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired before enjoying!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you want to enhance their flavor or pair them with other treats, here are some serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that never goes out of style. The creaminess of milk complements the nutty flavor of the cookies perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for a rich and indulgent dessert. Try vanilla or chocolate for a delightful combo.
Warm and Gooey
- Serve the cookies warm right out of the oven for that fresh-baked experience. The peanut butter chips will be melty and irresistible.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra touch of sweetness. This works great if you’re serving them as dessert after a meal.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair these cookies with sliced strawberries or bananas. The freshness balances out the richness of the peanut butter.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cookies adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness, making them look even more tempting.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To achieve the ultimate peanut butter chip cookies, follow these tips for perfect results every time.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading and creates thicker cookies.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden brown but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chunks along with peanut butter chips for added texture and flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
While these cookies are delightful on their own, they can also be complemented by some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Chilled Milk: A refreshing drink that pairs wonderfully with these sweet cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A light and fruity side dish that adds freshness alongside the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with chewy cookies, especially when made into sandwiches.
- Chocolate Milkshake: An indulgent treat that enhances the sweet flavors of peanut butter while providing a fun drinking option.
- Hot Chocolate: Perfect for colder days, this warm beverage pairs well with any cookie creation.
- Coffee or Espresso: For adults, a cup of coffee offers a nice balance to the sweetness of peanut butter chip cookies.
- Nutty Trail Mix: Offers crunch and additional flavors that complement the cookie’s nutty profile nicely.
- Homemade Jam or Jelly: Spread some jam on top of half a cookie for a unique twist on flavor!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy. This affects the cookie texture significantly.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge!
- Using Old Baking Powder/Soda: Check expiration dates. Fresh leavening agents are key for cookies that rise perfectly.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An inaccurate oven can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure temperature accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
- For cookie dough, scoop and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes for freshness.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds; watch closely not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for quick warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies chewy?
To achieve chewiness, avoid overbaking and consider adding an extra egg yolk.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture while keeping that delicious peanut flavor intact.
What if I don’t have cake flour?
You can substitute with all-purpose flour, but your cookies may be slightly denser.
How can I customize my peanut butter chip cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or oats for added flavor and texture!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
Final Thoughts
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins or even adjust the sweetness. Give this recipe a try and enjoy warm, fresh cookies that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies! Each cookie boasts a rich, nutty flavor and an irresistible thick, chewy texture that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday party, a cozy night in, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth—these cookies are quick to prepare and easy to customize. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with a glass of milk or can be transformed into decadent ice cream sandwiches. Get ready to elevate your baking game with this delicious recipe!
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
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp milk (optional)
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) 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 together cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients on low speed until fully mixed.
- Fold in the peanut butter chips evenly.
- Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls and roll them in granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheets.
- Create a crisscross pattern using a fork on each cookie ball.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cooling on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
