Peanut butter cookies are a classic favorite, but when you add a delightful surprise like mini Reese’s cups, you elevate the cookie game to a whole new level. Peanut Buttercup Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet creaminess of chocolate, making them impossible to resist. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies deliver a burst of flavor in every bite, and the combination of textures—soft and chewy with a touch of crunch from the candy—creates an unforgettable treat.
Why We Love This Peanut Buttercup Cookies Recipe
There are many reasons to adore this Peanut Buttercup Cookies recipe. First, the flavor fusion is heavenly. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of the peanut butter, creating a delicious harmony that satisfies your sweet tooth. Secondly, they are quick and simple to make, which is a significant advantage for busy bakers. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in no time. Plus, who doesn’t love a surprise in the middle of their cookie? The hidden mini Reese’s cups provide an exciting burst of flavor that keeps you going back for more. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, a family treat, or just yourself, these cookies will become a new favorite.
Ingredients about Peanut Buttercup Cookies
To create the perfect Peanut Buttercup Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter: Choose creamy or crunchy based on your texture preference.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture to the cookies.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the cookies together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Provides lift to the cookies, making them soft and chewy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- Mini Reese’s cups or peanut butter cups: For that delicious topping that makes these cookies unforgettable.
How to Make Peanut Buttercup Cookies Directions
Making Peanut Buttercup Cookies is an enjoyable process that can involve the whole family. You will find each step is straightforward, making it easy to create these delightful cookies.
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This preheating step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your cup of peanut butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar. You may want to use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix everything together until it becomes a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Next, crack the egg into the mix and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue to blend until all ingredients incorporate nicely.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Adding this mixture is essential to achieving that perfect cookie texture. Gradually add it to your peanut butter mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Once your dough is ready, you’ll want to scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart as they will spread while baking.
- Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven, and bake the cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want the edges to turn lightly golden without overbaking.
- As soon as you remove the baking sheet from the oven, press a mini Reese’s cup into the center of each cookie. This step is crucial as it infuses the cookies with that delightful chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
- Finally, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and makes for an easier transfer.
How to Serve Peanut Buttercup Cookies
Serving these Peanut Buttercup Cookies is all about presentation and enjoyment. Once cooled, arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving platter. You can dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance. These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, making them a nostalgic treat for both kids and adults alike. For gatherings or parties, consider placing these cookies in individual cellophane bags tied with a ribbon; it’s a simple yet delightful way to offer them as gifts. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also serve them warm, straight from the oven! Guests will love the melty chocolate topping, making them an instant hit at any occasion.
Expert Tips: Peanut Buttercup Cookies
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Peanut Buttercup Cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your peanut butter and egg to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps in achieving a better texture and blend.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie. You want it to be creamy and smooth, but if you see flour still visible, that’s okay.
- Check for Doneness: The cookies might appear soft when you take them out of the oven; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool. This helps them maintain a soft, chewy texture.
- Experiment with Nut Butters: If you love variety, try using almond butter or cashew butter in place of peanut butter for a unique spin on flavor.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and results in a thicker cookie.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Even if you think it’s not necessary, a little salt accentuates the sweetness and can enhance the flavor of your cookies significantly.
How to Store Peanut Buttercup Cookies
Storing your Peanut Buttercup Cookies correctly ensures that they stay fresh and delicious. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them to avoid moisture buildup. You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, and be sure to separate layers with parchment paper. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.
Variation of Peanut Buttercup Cookies
There are countless variations you can try with your Peanut Buttercup Cookies to put a unique twist on the classic recipe. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips along with the Reese’s cups for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Peanut Butter Swirls: If you love both chocolate and peanut butter, consider swirling some melted chocolate into the peanut butter batter before scooping onto the baking sheet.
- Sandwich Cookies: Use two peanut butter cookies with a dollop of creamy peanut butter frosting in between for a delightful sandwich cookie.
- Oatmeal Addition: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for a heartier texture. Just reduce the amount of sugar slightly, as oats absorb moisture.
- Nut Toppings: Add crushed peanuts or other nuts on top of the cookies before baking to add crunch and enhance the nutty flavor.
FAQ
What are Peanut Buttercup Cookies?
Peanut Buttercup Cookies are delicious treats that combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate, specifically using mini Reese’s cups as a topping.
How long do Peanut Buttercup Cookies last?
These cookies can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can last for up to three months.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a delightful texture. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if needed, as crunchy peanut butter may have some added sugar.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure that all the ingredients you use are gluten-free.
Can I bake these cookies without an egg?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce if you’re looking for an egg-free option. For every egg, use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 3 tablespoons of water.
Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge to create delicious Peanut Buttercup Cookies, gather your ingredients and enjoy the baking process! You’ll be whipping up these cookie delights in no time.
Peanut Buttercup Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter Choose creamy or crunchy based on your texture preference.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps with cookie structure.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Brings hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
- 1 egg egg Acts as a binding agent.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Provides lift to the cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 12 pieces Mini Reese's cups For topping the cookies.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, blending until all ingredients are incorporated.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together baking soda and salt, then gradually add to the peanut butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Baking
- Bake the cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Be cautious not to overbake.
- Immediately press a mini Reese's cup into the center of each cookie after removing them from the oven.
Cooling
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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