Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

These Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate any occasion. Their thick, chewy texture combined with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter makes them irresistible. Perfect for dessert tables, snack time, or even as a homemade gift, these cookies are sure to impress. With a simple recipe and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll discover how to make the best version of this classic favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Thick and Chewy Texture: These cookies have a delightful bite that keeps you coming back for more.
• Rich Peanut Butter Flavor: Made with creamy peanut butter and peanut butter chips, every bite is packed with flavor.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, family gatherings, or just as a sweet treat for yourself.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust sweetness and mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cookie-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie scoop
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming ingredients quick and easy for a smooth dough.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and helps achieve golden-brown bottoms.

Ingredients

These Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are thick, chewy, and soft-centered. Packed with a nutty flavor and baked until beautifully bronzed on top.

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 the oven to 375°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Cornstarch
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Set aside this dry mixture for later use.

Step 3: Cream the Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter.
2. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in:
1. The large egg
2. The large egg yolk
3. Vanilla extract
4. Milk (if using)

Blend until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed:
Gradually add in the dry ingredient mixture about ¼ cup at a time until just combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Peanut Butter Chips

Gently fold in peanut butter chips until evenly distributed in the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out cookies about 2–3 tablespoons in size.
2. Roll each piece of dough into a ball.
3. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the cookie sheet.

Step 8: Create Crisscross Pattern

Place 6–8 cookies on one cookie sheet at a time:
Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on each cookie dough ball while gently pressing down.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake the cookies for approximately 9–11 minutes or until tops are golden brown but slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.

Step 10: Cool Down

Let cookies rest on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them carefully to a cooling rack using a spatula. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies!

How to Serve Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

These delicious Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at a gathering, here are some great serving suggestions.

With Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the nutty flavor of the cookies and adds a refreshing twist.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delightful dessert treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced apples or bananas for a sweet and healthy contrast to the rich peanut butter flavor.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies alongside other sweets like brownies or cupcakes for an impressive dessert spread.

Warm with Whipped Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and top with whipped cream for a decadent treat that feels indulgent.

As Gifts

• Package the cookies in a decorative box or jar to share with friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

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How to Perfect Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

To ensure your Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter helps create thicker cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge for at least an hour can enhance the flavors and improve texture.

• Measure flour accurately: Spoon and level your flour to prevent overly dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dryness.

• Don’t overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they are just golden on top. They will continue to cook as they cool.

• Experiment with add-ins: Try adding chopped nuts or different types of chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Pairing these cookies with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the richness of peanut butter beautifully.

2. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake makes for a delightful contrast to the peanut butter flavor in each bite.

3. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness to counterbalance the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Hot Coffee
   The warmth and bitterness of coffee pair well with sweet cookies, creating a perfect afternoon snack combo.

5. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
   Blend bananas, yogurt, and peanut butter together for a nutritious drink that matches the cookie’s flavors.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that complement the sweetness of your peanut butter treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, it’s easy to stumble upon common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the chilling step – Many people bake their cookies right away. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
• Not measuring flour properly – Using too much flour leads to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much makes cookies tough. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
• Baking too long – Cookies continue to cook after being removed from the oven. Take them out when they’re lightly golden for a chewy center.

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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 cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For cookie dough, scoop onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top bag.

Reheating Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter! It will add extra texture but may slightly change the consistency.

How do I make my cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking and consider adding an extra egg yolk into your dough.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or granulated sugar mixed with molasses for a similar flavor.

How can I customize these Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for added flavors and textures!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

The Best Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are incredibly delicious and versatile. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or shared at gatherings, they never disappoint. You can customize them with various add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!