If you have ever dreamed of a cookie that perfectly marries the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with the decadent burst of chocolate in every bite, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with that nostalgic combo of flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s unbelievably easy to pull together. Get ready to bake up a batch that’s seriously addictive and sweet enough to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor, from the creamy peanut butter adding moisture and richness, to the chocolate chips that bring those irresistible pockets of melty sweetness. These simple staples come together with ease and create magic.
- ½ cup butter (melted): Provides a tender crumb and subtle buttery richness that balances the peanut flavor.
- ¾ cup peanut butter (smooth): The star ingredient delivering creamy texture and that classic nutty taste.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth of sweetness and helps keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- ½ cup sugar: Gives a touch of crispness to the cookie edges and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients while contributing to the moist, chewy texture.
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- 2 cups flour (or gluten free 1-to-1 blend): The foundation of the cookie structure, whether classic or gluten free.
- 1 tsp. baking soda: Helps cookies rise just right, giving them that perfect lift.
- 1 tsp. baking powder: Adds an extra boost for a soft yet sturdy cookie.
- ½ tsp. salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet): Bursts of chocolate throughout each cookie for irresistible gooey moments.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees to get it ready to perfectly bake your cookies. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, smooth peanut butter, packed brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is just combined. This blend creates a creamy, sweet base that sets the tone for your cookie dough’s fabulous texture.
Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Next, you’ll add in half of your flour along with the baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients separately to make sure they’re evenly combined before mixing them into your wet ingredients. Beat on medium speed until the mixture starts to resemble dough, then gradually add the remaining flour in small increments until fully blended. This step is all about building that perfect dough consistency—soft, not too sticky, yet ready to hold together those sweet chocolate chips.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips
Then, fold in the chocolate chips by hand. This is such a fun moment because it’s the start of cookie perfection. Make sure each spoonful has plenty of chocolate goodness because that’s what’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
Step 4: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie dough scoop, portion out about 1½ tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading. Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 11 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re perfect when the edges are lightly browned while the centers stay soft and chewy.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before you try to move them. This resting time lets them set up nicely so they don’t fall apart when you grab one (though it’s totally tempting to sneak a warm bite!). Now they’re ready to enjoy or share with your favorite people.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are amazing on their own, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right before baking gives an exciting salty-sweet contrast that elevates each bite. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over cooled cookies for a fancy touch that’s still quick and easy.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance their rich flavors. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a dreamy dessert combo where warm cookie meets creamy chill.
Creative Ways to Present
Stacking cookies on a pretty plate or in a mason jar tied with a rustic ribbon makes for a charming gift or party favor. You could also sandwich a little softened peanut butter or Nutella between two cookies to turn the recipe into an irresistible cookie sandwich that’s perfect for any celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain that perfect chew, place a slice of bread inside the container—it helps keep the cookies soft by adding moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, and then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies also freeze well in an airtight container for up to three months.
Reheating
Warm cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (about 300 degrees) for 5-7 minutes before serving. This reheating brings back that fresh-baked softness and awakens the melty chocolate chips, making each bite feel just out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add delightful bits of crunch to your cookies, offering a texture variation that many find delicious. Just be sure to mix it well with the wet ingredients for even distribution.
Is it possible to make these cookies gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular flour for a gluten free 1-to-1 baking blend as suggested. The cookies will maintain their chewy texture and great flavor without any compromise.
How can I prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your dough is well chilled before baking. You can refrigerate the scooped dough balls for 30 minutes prior to baking to help the cookies hold their shape better and avoid over-spreading.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips with other mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to swap chocolate chips for butterscotch chips, white chocolate, or even chopped nuts for a personalized twist. Just keep the quantity roughly the same to maintain the right balance.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly browned edges while the centers still look a little soft. The residual heat will finish cooking them off the tray, resulting in a perfectly chewy center without over-baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyful about making this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to lift your spirits on a regular day. The combination of creamy peanut butter and melty chocolate chips never gets old, and the simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for every skill level. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to some homemade cookie magic—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate chips, all baked to golden perfection. With a soft and chewy texture and a classic cookie flavor enhanced by brown sugar and vanilla, these cookies are an irresistible treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- ¾ cup peanut butter (smooth)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups flour (or a gluten free 1-to-1 blend)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Add-ins
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the dough.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the melted butter, smooth peanut butter, packed brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a handheld mixer, beat on medium speed for 20-30 seconds until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients in Stages: Whisk together one cup of flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and beat on medium speed until the flour is incorporated. Then add the remaining flour ¼ cup at a time, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing the dough.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Using a spatula or spoon, mix the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough by hand, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Portion the Dough: Use a cookie dough scoop or tablespoon to measure out approximately 1½ tablespoons per cookie. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden brown but the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack or packaging. Enjoy these delicious peanut butter chocolate chip cookies with your favorite beverage or as a delightful snack.
Notes
- For a thicker cookie, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
- You can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.
- Using a gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend makes these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Ensure not to overbake to maintain the soft and chewy texture.
