Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

These Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for any occasion! With their rich flavor and delightful texture, they’re a surefire hit at parties, cookie swaps, or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of chocolate and peanut butter creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, lunch boxes, or just when you need a quick snack.
• Decadent Texture: Enjoy the chewy interior with a delightful crunch from the added Reese’s Pieces and Peanut Butter Chips.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cookies, making them a great choice for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for that perfect fluffy texture.

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Ingredients

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are an over-the-top treat that’s easy to make and packed with delicious chocolaty peanut butter flavor!

For the Cookie Dough:

• 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)
• (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

For Topping:

• ¾ cup Reese’s Pieces (167g, plus more for topping)
• ¾ cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips (126g, plus more for topping)

How to Make Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Peanut butter,
2. Whole milk,
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Salt.

Use an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Unsweetened cocoa powder,
3. Black cocoa powder,
4. Instant chocolate fudge pudding mix,
5. Powdered milk,
6. Baking soda,
7. Granulated sugar.

Make sure everything is well combined before adding it to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Milk

Add in the large egg, additional yolk, room temperature whole milk, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Treats

Gently fold in:
– Reese’s Pieces
– Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips

This adds extra flavor and texture to your cookies.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 8: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each scoop for spreading during baking.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still soft.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

These Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy evening at home, here are some serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk complements the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve cookies warm topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a platter with other treats, such as brownies or fruit tarts, for an impressive dessert spread.

Dipped in Chocolate

• For extra decadence, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let them cool until set for a gourmet touch.

Crumbled over Yogurt

• Break the cookies into pieces and sprinkle them over yogurt for a sweet breakfast or snack option.

How to Perfect Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

Perfecting your Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies can elevate their taste and texture. Here are some tips to enhance your baking skills.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough and promotes even baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour in your measuring cup, which can lead to dense cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape better while they bake.

• Do Not Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven; they should be soft in the center when removed to achieve that perfect chewy texture.

• Mix Thoroughly but Gently: Combine ingredients just until incorporated to avoid tough cookies from overmixing.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies can create a delightful meal or snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that balances the richness of the cookies.

2. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture; it pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of peanut butter.

3. Chocolate Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake complements the cookies’ flavors while providing an indulgent drink option.

4. Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes from coffee balance out the sweetness of cookies, making it an excellent pairing for dessert lovers.

5. Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding offers a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of cookies, enhancing every bite.

6. Whipped Cream Topped Hot Cocoa: This warm drink is delicious alongside cookies, especially during cooler months; add whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with recipes as delicious as Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling your cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Give it at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using the wrong amounts can alter the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so always preheat and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months.

Reheating Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat cookies individually for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies.

How do I make my Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies chewy?

To achieve a chewy texture, do not overbake your cookies. Remove them when they’re just set, and allow them to cool on the baking sheet.

Can I substitute peanut butter in the recipe?

Yes! You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary preferences.

What can I add to enhance my Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies?

Consider adding chopped nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added texture and flavor enhancements.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your leftover Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Their rich flavors make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a snack or dessert after dinner. Feel free to customize them by adding extra mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate chips!