Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are the perfect fusion of rich, nutty peanut butter and decadent chocolate. These bite-sized delights are soft, chewy, and packed with mini peanut butter cups for an indulgent treat. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to wow guests, a fun baking project with kids, or just a sweet snack for yourself, these cookies are a must-try.

This recipe is simple yet irresistible, combining pantry staples with a touch of creativity. Serve them at parties, holiday gatherings, or as a delightful addition to your cookie jar.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

1. Flavorful Combination: The classic pairing of peanut butter and chocolate shines in every bite.
2. Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
3. Perfect Texture: A soft, chewy center with slightly crisp edges.
4. Versatile: Great for gifting, holiday trays, or everyday treats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

1. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Peanut Butter Cups

1. Gently fold the chopped mini peanut butter cups into the dough using a rubber spatula. Reserve a few for topping the cookies before baking if desired.

Step 6: Portion the Dough

1. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Optional: Gently press a reserved piece of peanut butter cup onto the top of each cookie for added visual appeal.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone but will set as the cookies cool.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth, cohesive dough.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
3. Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before scooping to prevent spreading during baking.
4. Even Baking: Bake one sheet at a time in the center of the oven for consistent results.

Variations

1. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for extra indulgence.
2. Crunchy Texture: Add chopped peanuts or pretzels to the dough for a crunch.
3. Dark Chocolate: Substitute mini dark chocolate peanut butter cups for a richer flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of regular flour.

Serving Suggestions

• Milk Pairing: Serve warm cookies with a tall glass of cold milk.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies as a base for your favorite ice cream.
• Dessert Platter: Combine these cookies with other treats like brownies and fudge for a stunning dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-mixed, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.

What if I don’t have mini peanut butter cups?

You can substitute regular-sized peanut butter cups chopped into small pieces or use chocolate chips.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough if it feels soft, and ensure your baking sheets are cool before adding the next batch.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies offer an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages. The rich peanut butter dough perfectly complements the gooey chocolate centers, making these cookies an irresistible treat. Plus, their simple preparation ensures that anyone can create bakery-quality cookies right at home.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional peanut butter cookies. With their rich flavor, chewy texture, and chocolatey goodness, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress.

Yield: 24

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe

Print

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are the perfect fusion of rich, nutty peanut butter and decadent chocolate. These bite-sized delights are soft, chewy, and packed with mini peanut butter cups for an indulgent treat. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to wow guests, a fun baking project with kids, or just a sweet snack for yourself, these cookies are a must-try.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Cooling Time 20 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Cookie Dough:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Filling:
• 24 mini peanut butter cups (unwrapped)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
   In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms.
   
2. Shape and Bake
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls (about the size of a walnut) and place each ball into a mini muffin cup.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   
3. Add the Peanut Butter Cups
   While the cookies are still warm and soft, gently press one mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie.
   Let the cookies cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Optional Decoration: Drizzle melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts over the cookies for added flair.

Variations: Swap mini peanut butter cups for caramel-filled chocolates or chocolate truffles for a twist.