Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for these heavenly cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, or a mix)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make these delectable cookies, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to make a large batch, you can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
- Double Chocolate: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a double chocolate version.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch.
- Chunky Peanut Butter: Use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Soft Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Chilling the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Uniform Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to make sure your cookies are all the same size and bake evenly.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages:
- Milk: A classic glass of cold milk is perfect with these rich, sweet cookies.
- Coffee: The robust flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: For a truly indulgent treat, pair the cookies with a warm mug of hot chocolate.
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake as needed.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
You can use chopped chocolate bars, white chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
How do I make my cookies chewier?
For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them so they are still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure it is well-stirred and not too oily. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.
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I hope you enjoy baking and indulging in these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies from Heaven as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy baking!