There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, freshly baked cookie that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with gooey, melted chocolate chips. If you’re searching for the ultimate chocolate chip peanut butter cookies recipe, look no further. This guide will walk you through a foolproof method to make soft, chewy, and irresistible cookies at home, even if you’re a beginner.
Whether you're a mom whose kids want some chocolate cookies or just a person who starts baking, this is an easy homemade cookies recipe that delivers big on flavor with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to make the best peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips you've ever tasted. This easy homemade cookies recipe brings together the rich, nutty taste of peanut butter and the sweet, melty goodness of chocolate chips in the most satisfying way. Doesn't matter if you're baking for the holidays, for guests, or just for yourself; this is truly the best peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips you’ll ever make.
With just some simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a batch of warm, delicious cookies ready to eat. Try this chocolate chip peanut butter cookie recipe once, and it just might become your favorite and top of the list recipe.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies?
There are thousands of cookie recipes out there, but here’s why this one stands out:
1. Irresistibly Soft and Chewy
These cookies stay soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, the perfect texture combo that makes every bite satisfying.
2. Sweet and Salty Flavor Combo
The natural saltiness of the peanut butter complements the sweetness of the chocolate chips, creating a perfectly balanced treat.
3. One Bowl, No Mess
This is an easy homemade cookie recipe with minimal cleanup. Everything comes together in one bowl, making it easy as A to prepare.
4. Freezer-Friendly
Make a big batch and freeze the dough or the baked cookies, more on that later!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what you need to make the perfect peanut butter chocolate chip cookies recipe. These ingredients are basic, but the results are anything but basic.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (You can use Calin's butter to add extra softness to the texture)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: ½ cup chopped peanuts for added crunch
Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth dough. Want some texture? Check the FAQ section below for crunchy peanut butter options.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chips
Follow these easy steps to make the best peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips right in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat again until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix!
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts (if using). The dough should be thick and a little sticky.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly press the tops to flatten slightly.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or let them cool completely for storage.
How to Keep Cookies Soft Longer
Nobody likes a hard, dry cookie after just a day. Here are some expert tips to keep your peanut butter chocolate chip cookies soft and chewy for days:
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps maintain moisture.
- Do Not Overbake: Slightly underbaking the cookies ensures they stay soft in the center.
- Freeze for Freshness: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed bag. Reheat for 10 seconds in the microwave to revive that just-baked texture.
How can I customize the cookies?
Want to make this chocolate chip peanut butter cookie recipe your own? Try these fun twists:
- Double Chocolate: Use chocolate, peanut butter, and chocolate chunks.
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter for an allergy-friendly version.
- Vegan Option: Substitute egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter and chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes, you can! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and a nuttier bite. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the dough's consistency, so you might need to reduce the amount of chocolate chips to avoid dryness.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely. You can freeze the dough or the baked cookies:
- Dough: Scoop into balls and freeze on a tray. Once frozen, transfer the mixture to a zip-top bag and bake it straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Baked Cookies: Freeze in layers, separating each layer with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
What’s the best way to serve peanut butter cookies?
Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk, or crumble over ice cream for a decadent dessert. You can also sandwich two cookies with a bit of peanut butter or chocolate ganache in between for a cookie sandwich!