Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the nutty richness of peanut butter with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate, look no further! These peanut butter chocolate chip cookies are soft, chewy, and simply irresistible. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Get ready to savor every bite of these delightful cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (approximately 1 cookie) contains about 150 calories, 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 10g of sugar. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together baking soda and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix well.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added texture. Additionally, use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version. Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can also serve as excellent alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a special treat, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Overbaking will lead to dry cookies — keep an eye on them!
- Using natural peanut butter without stabilizers can change consistency.
- Skipping the cooling stage can lead to crumbly cookies.
- Not letting the dough rest can affect the final cookie shape.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
- Always preheat the oven for even baking.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter has a different consistency and may require adjustments in other ingredients.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers will appear soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add oatmeal to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding oats can enhance texture and flavor; just reduce the flour slightly to maintain balance.
What should I do with leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container or freeze them for later enjoyment. They also make great gifts!
Conclusion
Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a delightful snack throughout the week, these cookies are sure to please both family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try this simple recipe and savor the delightful combination of flavors!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together baking soda and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix well.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.