Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are a classic treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, these cookies are easy to make and deliver bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, a dessert, or paired with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This detailed recipe includes step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect texture, and variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk (adds chewiness)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup peanut butter chips or chocolate chips
- Chopped peanuts for extra crunch
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Wire cooling rack
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to tough cookies.
- If using, fold in peanut butter chips, chocolate chips, or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.
5. Shape the Cookies:
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls.
- Roll each ball between your hands for a smooth finish and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- For the classic peanut butter cookie look, gently press each dough ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
6. Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers appear slightly underdone.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use Creamy Peanut Butter: Avoid natural peanut butter, as the oil separation can affect the texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Cookies continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to prevent sogginess.
Variations and Additions
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
- Stuffed Cookies: Add a mini peanut butter cup or chocolate truffle to the center of each dough ball.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Nutty Boost: Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
Storage and Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: Freeze dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 210-230 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
Final Thoughts
Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, packed in a lunchbox, or frozen for later indulgence, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time. Try different add-ins, experiment with toppings, and enjoy the irresistible combination of peanut butter goodness and chewy perfection!
Would you like more variations, such as a vegan or sugar-free version? Let me know