Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies are a heavenly combination of two beloved flavors: rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. These soft and chewy cookies bring together the nuttiness of peanut butter with the deep, decadent taste of cocoa. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up in no time. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or cooled with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What makes these cookies truly special is their delightful texture and balance of flavors. The peanut butter adds a creamy richness, while the cocoa imparts a deep chocolatey note. These cookies are great for bake sales, gifting, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with your favorite add-ins, like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Perfect Flavor Combo: The classic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are tender on the inside with just a hint of crispness on the edges.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make them a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
• ½ cup shortening (regular or butter flavor)
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare a cookie sheet by leaving it ungreased or using parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the egg and mix just until incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
1. Scoop the dough to form 1 to 1 ½ inch balls and place them onto the prepared cookie sheet.
2. Using a fork, press each ball down to create the traditional crisscross pattern.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Cool Completely
1. Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Tips
• Creamy or Crunchy Peanut Butter: For extra texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
• Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or Reese’s Pieces for an added treat.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before shaping.
Storage Options
• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.
• Dough Storage: Shape the dough into balls and freeze them raw. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies are a timeless treat that blend comfort and indulgence in every bite. Share them with loved ones or keep a stash for yourself—they’re impossible to resist!
