Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just a regular day, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for more. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these delicious cookies at home.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 36 mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready once your cookie dough is prepared.
- Prepare Your Baking Pan: Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin liners. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined. Then, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place each ball into the prepared mini muffin tin.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
- Add the Peanut Butter Cups: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will melt the chocolate slightly, helping it to adhere.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, your Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are ready to be enjoyed. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
About the Main Ingredients
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is the star ingredient in these cookies, providing a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. For the best results, use creamy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter can also be used, but be sure to stir it well to incorporate any separated oils.
Mini Peanut Butter Cups
Mini peanut butter cups add a decadent touch to these cookies. Their creamy peanut butter filling and smooth chocolate coating melt into the cookies, creating a delicious bite. Make sure to use high-quality mini peanut butter cups for the best flavor.
Butter
Butter adds richness and helps to create the soft, chewy texture of the cookies. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Sugars
Both granulated sugar and brown sugar are used in this recipe. Granulated sugar helps the cookies to spread and provides sweetness, while brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife to avoid using too much.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a leavening agent that helps the cookies to rise. It also helps to create a tender texture.
Egg
The egg acts as a binding agent and adds moisture to the cookies. It also helps to create a soft, chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies, adding a subtle sweetness and depth.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to make perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cookies every time. Enjoy the process of baking these delicious treats, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family!
