Description of this recipe:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort cookie experience with these Chewy Peanut Butter Cup-Filled Cookies! Each bite combines the rich, savory flavor of peanut butter with the sweet surprise of a melting mini peanut butter cup at the center. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly packed with flavor, making them an irresistible treat for any peanut butter lover.
Why you will love this recipe:
These cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate from the mini peanut butter cups creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy any sweet craving. They are perfect for cookie swaps, holiday gatherings, or even as a sweet pick-me-up during the week. Plus, they are sure to impress your friends and family with their deliciousness.
Introduction
There’s something magical about the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Beyond just a sweet treat, cookies evoke memories of childhood, family gatherings, and cozy nights in. In this recipe, we’ll take the beloved classic peanut butter cookie and elevate it with a gooey chocolate center, creating a deliciously chewy cookie that is sure to become a family favorite. Perfectly chewy on the outside and deliciously gooey on the inside, these Chewy Peanut Butter Cup-Filled Cookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat.
Whether for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is simple enough for baking novices yet impressive enough to make you feel like a professional chef. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 24 mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As you do this, you may want to grease or line a mini muffin pan with paper liners to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to ensure the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This is an essential step as it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cookies rise properly.
Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully integrated into the mixture. This will add both moisture and flavor to your cookie dough, contributing to the chewiness we love.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually sprinkle the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Once rolled, place each dough ball into the mini muffin pan cavities. The cookies will spread as they bake, so there’s no need to worry about them being too close together.
Step 6: Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie while they are still warm. The warmth will cause the chocolate to melt slightly, creating that gooey center. Let the cookies cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
COOKING Rating:
Overall Rating: 5/5
These cookies are an absolute must-try! Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike, the chewy texture combined with the melted chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven.
Serving Suggestions:
These Chewy Peanut Butter Cup-Filled Cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat. They also make great snacks for parties, bake sales, or as a generous homemade gift, beautifully packaged in a decorative tin.
Tips:
- Cookie Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Chill the Dough: If you’re making the dough in advance, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps in keeping the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Variations: For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Peanut Butter Options: If you prefer crunchy peanut butter, don’t hesitate to use it! The added texture can be delightful.
- Ensure Even Baking: Rotate the muffin pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 70mg
Conclusion
In just 25 minutes, you can create a batch of irresistible Chewy Peanut Butter Cup-Filled Cookies that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for more. These cookies are an exciting and delicious way to enjoy the timeless combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Not only are they a treat for the taste buds, but they also bring warmth and joy to any occasion they are shared at. So go ahead, make these delightful cookies today, and bring some sweetness into your life!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a fun texture to the cookies, making them even more delightful!
2. How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
4. Can I use a regular muffin pan instead of a mini muffin pan?
Yes, but the baking time will vary. If using a regular muffin pan, cookies may need additional time in the oven.
5. Where can I find mini peanut butter cups?
Mini peanut butter cups can be found in most grocery stores, usually located in the baking aisle or candy section. You can also find them online.
