Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, look no further than these Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies. With their soft centers and slightly crispy edges, each bite is a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to impress.

The Upside of Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

There’s something incredibly comforting about cookies, especially when they’re thick, soft, and bursting with flavor. These Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies not only deliver on taste but also on texture. The creamy peanut butter lends a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate flavor, making them irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can have a fresh batch ready in no time!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (I recommend creamy honey roasted for added sweetness and depth)
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed; dark brown may be substituted for a richer flavor)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder (Dutch-process or Hershey’s Special Dark may be substituted)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients seamlessly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key in baking!
• Cookie sheet – A non-stick or parchment-lined sheet will help prevent sticking.
• Cookie scoop – For evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly.
• Oven thermometer – Ensure your oven is at the right temperature for perfect baking.

Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and the packed light brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the large egg and pour in the tablespoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Sift in Cocoa Powder and Baking Soda

Sift the cocoa powder and baking soda into the peanut butter mixture. This will help avoid clumps and ensure an even distribution of the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Mix Until Combined

Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving enough space between each scoop for spreading.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center; they will continue to cook on the sheet after being removed from the oven.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, the best part—enjoy your Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Healthier Substitutions

• Peanut Butter: Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
• Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
• Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to reduce sugar content.
• Egg: Use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

These Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to a week in an airtight container. If you want to freeze them, simply place the uncooked scoops of dough on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Store & Reheat

To maintain their soft texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you find they’ve become a little too firm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their chewy goodness. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned earlier.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add delightful texture to your cookies, but be aware that it may slightly alter the cookie’s overall consistency.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and handle.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies will look slightly puffed and the edges will be set, while the centers may appear a bit underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cookies?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or chunks for an extra chocolatey treat. About ½ cup should do the trick!

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Pinch of Yum’s Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Minimalist Baker’s Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Sally’s Peanut Butter Brownies

Serve & Enjoy

Gather your loved ones and present these Thick and Soft Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies as the star of your dessert table. Whether they’re served warm from the oven or enjoyed later with a cup of coffee, they are sure to be a hit.

Baking is not just about creating delicious treats; it’s about sharing love and joy with those around you. So, get ready to make memories (and cookies) that will last a lifetime!