As I rummaged through my pantry looking for a pick-me-up, my eyes landed on a jar of creamy peanut butter. It got me thinking about a sweet treat that merges the rich, fluffy goodness of Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies with an irresistible fudge-like center. These cookies deliver not just a delightful mix of flavors but also the comfort of home baking, ready in under an hour. With each bite, you’ll savor the chewy texture and unexpected bursts of Reese’s Pieces and peanut butter chips, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or seeking a cozy evening with a cookie and a glass of milk, these are sure to hit the spot. Curious about how to whip up this deliciousness? Let’s jump into the recipe!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers a rich chocolate experience, complemented beautifully by a creamy, fudge-like peanut butter center.
Quick and Easy: In under an hour, you can have these indulgent treats baking in your oven—perfect for those busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: With bursts of Reese’s Pieces and peanut butter chips, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap in almond or cashew butter for a unique twist, or create mini versions for bite-sized indulgence.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with a warm glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more delightful dessert experience!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
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For the Peanut Butter Filling
• Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, nutty flavor that makes for a creamy and delightful filling. Use creamy varieties like Jif or Skippy for the best results.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling while creating a smoother texture, making it easier to handle.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture to keep the filling rich and creamy.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of both the cookies and the filling.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness in the filling for a refined taste. -
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies, ensuring a perfect chewy texture.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that is essential for these cookies.
• Black Cocoa Powder – Deepens the color without adding excessive bitterness; can be used alone if desired.
• Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix – Enhances moistness and chocolate flavor, giving the cookies a fudgy quality.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly during baking for a lovely texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and supports the structure of the cookie dough.
• Salted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; ensures cookies are rich and satisfying.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dough.
• Additional Egg Yolk – Provides extra fat for an even chewier cookie. -
For the Mix-Ins
• Reese’s Pieces – Offers delightful bursts of flavor and fun texture to every bite.
• Peanut Butter Chips – Elevates the peanut butter experience; you can opt to decorate with them for added appeal.
These delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies promise to be a treat for both chocolate and peanut butter lovers!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of whole milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want a creamy consistency that’s easily moldable. Once ready, set the peanut butter filling aside while you make the cookie dough.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup each of unsweetened cocoa powder and black cocoa powder, 1 package of instant chocolate fudge pudding mix, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture will form the decadent base of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies.
Step 3: Cream Sugar and Butter
In another bowl, beat together 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of softened salted butter until the texture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in 1 large egg, an additional egg yolk, 2 tablespoons of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The creamy mixture should be homogenous and ready to combine with the dry ingredients for your cookie dough.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix. The dough should come together nicely but remain slightly thick and sticky, which is perfect for the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of Reese’s Pieces and 1 cup of peanut butter chips into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. These delightful additions will enhance each cookie with bursts of flavor and texture, making your cookies even more irresistible.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Flatten each dough ball slightly, then take a piece of the prepared peanut butter filling and place it in the center. Wrap the cookie dough around the filling, smoothing the surface to seal it completely.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. This will ensure they remain chewy and delicious. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the peanut butter filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the cookie dough up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply prepare the dough, shape it around the filling, and refrigerate the unbaked cookies on the baking sheet. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats, just bake them straight from the fridge for a few extra minutes. This way, you can savor the same gooey texture and rich flavor, all while saving precious time on busy weeknights!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious cookies, creating a treat that suits your taste buds perfectly!
- Nut Butter Swap: Substitute almond or cashew butter for a unique nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Crunchy Add-Ins: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that complements the soft cookie texture.
- Mini Treats: Create smaller, bite-sized versions by using mini dough balls for a snackable delight—perfect for sharing!
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in dark chocolate chips or chunks in addition to the peanut butter chips for an intense chocolate experience.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk and a dairy-free butter substitute along with dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, instead of vanilla for an exciting twist on the flavor profile.
For a delightful combination, try pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or if you’re feeling adventurous, whip up some homemade Chocolate Granola Cups for a crunchy treat! If you love the garlic butter flavor, consider including Comfort Garlic Butter for a savory side!
What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a freshly baked cookie paired with favorites that enhance its delightful flavors.
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Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing with cookies, milk brings balance to the rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter sensations in each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a luscious contrast, making every bite an indulgent experience.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a fresh, tart element that brightens up the cookie’s sweetness— a refreshing choice!
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavor of coffee complements the richness of the cookies perfectly, elevating this sweet treat to a cozy afternoon break.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: For an extra layer of chocolatey goodness, serve these cookies with a warm chocolate ganache for dipping, making them even more decadent.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on the plate offers a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cookies.
These delightful pairings will take your love for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies to the next level!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
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Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to mix dry ingredients evenly to prevent clumps; using your hands for the final mix can help with this.
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Watch the Bake Time: For gooey centers, resist overbaking—the cookies should appear slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven.
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Storage Secrets: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
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Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle.
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Peanut Butter Choice: Opt for creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy to ensure a smooth filling; avoid natural nut butters that may alter the texture.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They’ll taste just as delicious as the day they were made!
Reheating: If you’d like warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Enjoy your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of peanut butter should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for creamy peanut butter varieties like Jif or Skippy. These brands provide a rich, nutty flavor and maintain the right texture for your filling. Avoid natural nut butters that can have extra oils, as they may affect the creaminess and structure.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together. They’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough to be too sticky, simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it much easier to handle when shaping your cookies. If it’s still sticky after chilling, you can also add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.
Do these cookies contain any common allergens?
Yes, indeed! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies contain peanut butter, which is a common allergen. They also include wheat from all-purpose flour and dairy from butter and milk. If you’re serving them to guests, be sure to inform anyone about the presence of these ingredients. For a nut-free alternative, consider using sunbutter or soybutter instead!
How can I achieve a gooey center in my cookies?
To ensure that your cookies have that perfectly gooey center, you want to be careful not to overbake them. Look for a set edge with a slightly soft center; they might appear underdone when you take them out, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes after being removed from the oven. Enjoy your baking!
Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies with Fudge Centers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and whole milk until smooth. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Whisk together flour, cocoa powders, pudding mix, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Mix in egg, additional egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until combined. The dough should be slightly thick and sticky.
- Gently fold in the Reese's Pieces and peanut butter chips.
- Portion out the dough onto baking sheets, flatten slightly, place peanut butter filling in the center, and wrap the dough around the filling.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and centers are soft. Allow to cool briefly on baking sheets before transferring to wire racks.