Craving a sweet treat that combines the timeless flavors of chocolate and peanut butter? Look no further! Our peanut butter cup cookies recipe brings together the best of both worlds into soft, chewy cookies topped with a decadent chocolate peanut butter cup. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also sure to impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 chocolate peanut butter cups, unwrapped
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 cookies. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (1 serving) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 14g
– Fats: 9g
– Fiber: 1g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
4. Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
7. Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
9. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy your delicious cookies with a glass of milk!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added texture. For a healthier option, use natural peanut butter without added sugars. Dairy-free chocolate cups can also be used for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For an extra treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover 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, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a chilled treat!
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center.
- Ensure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them.
- Don’t skip the baking soda; it helps the cookies rise.
- Make sure to press the chocolate cups into the cookies while they are still warm.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
- Use high-quality chocolate cups for the best taste.
- Experiment with different nut butters for variety.
- Keep the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Try adding chopped nuts for crunch.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but ensure it’s well-stirred and not too runny. This will help maintain the cookie’s structure.
What can I substitute for the egg?
You can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed gel as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free flour blends instead of regular flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large mixing bowl and adjust baking times if necessary.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last about a week or be frozen for later enjoyment.
Conclusion
These peanut butter cup cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking and indulging in these sweet creations!
Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 12 chocolate peanut butter cups unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your delicious cookies!
