Delicious Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor Combination: The rich, creamy blend of chocolate and peanut butter creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in, a party, or a bake sale, these cookies are sure to impress everyone.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make these cookies uniquely yours!

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey that combines two of the most beloved flavors in the world? Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven, and when they come together in cookie form, magic happens! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that’s bursting with rich chocolate flavor and creamy peanut butter goodness. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a peanut butter fanatic, or just someone with a sweet tooth, these Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies are sure to become your new favorite treat. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• ½ cup peanut butter (130g)
• 1½ cups powdered sugar (150g)
• 1½ ounces whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (260g)
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25g)
• ¼ cup black cocoa powder (30g)
• 1 (3.4oz) box instant chocolate fudge pudding mix (110g, unprepared)
• 2 tablespoons powdered milk (10g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup granulated sugar (220g)
• ½ cup salted butter (113g, softened)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 additional large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 2 ounces whole milk (room temperature)
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup Reese’s Pieces (167g), plus more for topping
• ¾ cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips (126g), plus more for topping

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and whole milk until smooth. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, black cocoa powder, pudding mix, powdered milk, salt, and baking soda.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter for about 1 minute until light and fluffy.
5. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, then the egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using your hands if necessary to avoid overmixing.
7. Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces and Peanut Butter Chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Shape the Cookies: Scoop the dough into 9 portions. Flatten each portion and place a ball of the peanut butter filling in the center. Seal the dough around the filling and roll it into a ball.
9. Prepare for Baking: Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Optionally, top with more Reese’s Pieces and chips for an extra treat.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present and serve them:

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle some extra Reese’s Pieces around for a colorful touch.
• Milk and Cookies: Serve with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate classic pairing.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Gift Packaging: Package them in a cute box or jar tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for about 5-7 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds!

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the cookies!
2. What can I substitute for the eggs? You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. How do I know when the cookies are done baking? The edges should be set, and the centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
5. Can I add other mix-ins? Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the dough.
6. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.
7. Can I use a different type of pudding mix? Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pudding mix for a unique twist!
8. How do I make the cookies more chocolatey? You can increase the amount of cocoa powder or add chocolate chips to the dough.
9. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
10. What’s the best way to serve these cookies? They are delicious on their own, but pairing them with milk or ice cream makes for an indulgent treat!