Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm cookie, especially when it’s filled with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making them a favorite for cookie lovers everywhere. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to make. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is timeless, appealing to both kids and adults alike. The cookies come out soft and chewy on the inside with a slight crisp on the edges, creating a delightful texture. Plus, with the addition of both peanut butter chips and chocolate chips, each bite is bursting with flavor. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back for more, time and again.

Ingredient Notes

• 1 cup butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of the saltiness in your cookies.
• 1 cup sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs provide moisture and richness, binding the ingredients together.
• 1 cup dark cocoa powder: For a rich chocolate flavor; regular cocoa powder can be substituted if preferred.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This creates the base of your cookies, providing structure.
• 1 tsp coarse salt: Enhances the flavor of the cookies; if you’re using salted butter, you may want to reduce this.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1 cup peanut butter chips: These add a delicious burst of peanut butter flavor.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: For extra chocolatey goodness in every bite.

Cook’s Kit

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for mixing your cookie dough.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming together the butter and sugar.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results.
• Baking sheets: Line these with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cooling rack: Essential for letting your cookies cool properly.

Method: Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, contributing to a lighter cookie.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of dark cocoa powder, 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp coarse salt, and 1 tsp baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Chips

Gently fold in the 1 cup of peanut butter chips and 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly underbaked.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Flex Options

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using white chocolate chips instead of peanut butter chips.
• You can reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup for a less sweet cookie.
• For a nutty flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped nuts to the dough.

Chef’s Notes

• For even baking, make sure that your cookie dough balls are uniform in size.
• Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.
• Feel free to mix and match your favorite chocolate types, such as dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate.
• These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they remain delicious stored in an airtight container.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and they’ll last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Questions People Ask

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder for dark cocoa powder. However, you may notice a slightly different flavor and color in your cookies.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?

If your cookie dough seems too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until the desired consistency is reached. This will help bind the ingredients without compromising the cookie’s texture.

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough in balls and bake them straight from the freezer, just adding a minute or two to the baking time.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges look set and the tops have a slightly soft appearance. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
• Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Chocolate Chip Cookies

Time to Try It

Now that you’ve got the scoop on how to make these irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Whether for a cozy night in, a bake sale, or just a special treat for yourself, these cookies are bound to please. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as these cookies bake to perfection. Happy baking!