Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a rich peanut butter flavor with the sweetness of chocolatey chips. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies offer thick, chewy textures and a soft center that will leave everyone craving more. The unique blend of flours and the addition of flaky sea salt elevate these cookies to gourmet status, ensuring they’re not just any ordinary dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chips creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even pack them for lunch!
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the size or add your favorite mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies strike the right balance between chewy and soft, making each bite delightful.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Rubber spatula
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless for a smooth cookie dough.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your dry and wet ingredients organized.
- Cookie scoop: Ensures evenly sized cookies, allowing for consistent baking results.
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!
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
– 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. Prepare two cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
all-purpose flour
cake flour
corn starch
baking soda
baking powder
salt
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Mixture
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together:
1. Cold unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar
4. Creamy peanut butter
Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in:
1. One large egg
2. One large egg yolk
3. Vanilla extract
4. Milk (if using)
Blend until fully mixed, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add in your dry ingredient mixture in about ¼ cup increments until well combined.
Step 6: Mix in Peanut Butter Chips
Fold in the peanut butter chips using either a spatula or your mixer on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls about 2–3 tablespoons in size. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on your prepared cookie sheets.
Step 8: Shape Cookies
Place 6–8 cookie balls on each sheet, then use a fork to create a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 9–11 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remember to check frequently; it’s best to pull them out just before they look done!
Step 10: Cool & Enjoy
Allow cookies to rest on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack carefully. While warm, sprinkle with additional granulated sugar and flaky sea salt if desired! Enjoy these delicious cookies fresh from the oven!
How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
These delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, there are many ways to serve and enjoy these cookies.
With Milk
- Pair the cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances their rich, nutty flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create a delightful ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor for a sweet treat.
Topped with Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of ice cream. The melting ice cream complements the soft texture of the cookies beautifully.
Cookie Bar Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a platter with different toppings, like chocolate syrup or whipped cream, allowing guests to customize their treats.
Gift Package
- Package the cookies in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will love.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy the cookies with freshly brewed coffee. The bitter notes of coffee balance out the sweetness of the peanut butter cookies perfectly.
How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and incorporation of air.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least an hour before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
- Don’t overbake: Take them out when they look slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with chips: Try different brands or types of peanut butter chips for unique flavors.
- Add nuts: Mix in chopped peanuts or other nuts for added crunch and texture.
- Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Complement your Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies with these delightful side dishes. They enhance your dessert experience perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with berries and granola for a light, creamy side dish.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate can be used as a dip, adding an extra indulgent touch.
- Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides a crunchy counterpart to the soft cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: Serve with hot beverages to create a cozy atmosphere while enjoying your treats.
- Granola Bars: These can provide an energy boost while complementing the flavors of peanut butter.
- Sliced Banana Bread: This moist bread pairs well with the nutty flavors of peanut butter in your cookie recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making peanut butter chip cookies can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Using the wrong flour: Different flours have varying protein contents. Stick to all-purpose and cake flour for the best texture.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for precision.
- Overmixing the dough: Too much mixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps flavors develop and improves texture. If you have time, let it rest in the fridge.
- Ignoring baking times: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies. Pull them out when they’re golden brown but still soft in the center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For best results, separate layers with parchment paper.
Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm; avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, watching closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies:
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Using natural peanut butter can alter the texture since it has less stabilizer. Choose creamy options like Jif or Skippy for optimal results.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well, but ensure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
What if I don’t have cake flour?
You can substitute cake flour with additional all-purpose flour, though the cookies may not be as tender.
Are these cookies suitable for shipping?
Yes! Just ensure they are packaged securely within an airtight container to maintain freshness during transit.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Mixing in chocolate chips will create a delicious combination with peanut butter chips.
Final Thoughts
The Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite nuts or even swapping in different types of chips. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with friends, these cookies are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!
Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, where rich peanut butter meets sweet chocolatey chips for an irresistible treat. These cookies boast a thick, chewy texture with a soft center that melts in your mouth. Elevate your baking game with a unique blend of all-purpose and cake flour, complemented by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that gourmet touch. Perfect for any occasion—from casual snacks to festive gatherings—these cookies will leave everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and fully customizable, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!
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
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp. milk (optional)
- 1 (10 oz.) bag peanut butter chips (~2 cups)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and milk; mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until combined.
- Fold in the peanut butter chips using a spatula.
- Scoop out dough portions onto prepared sheets and create a criss-cross pattern with a fork.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until golden brown; 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 (32g)
- Calories: 147
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
