Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Everyone Adores

Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies captivate taste buds with their perfect harmony of nutty richness and chocolate indulgence. These bakery-style treats combine the earthy depth of peanut butter with the sweet delight of chocolate chips, creating a flavor profile that’s simultaneously comforting and exciting. The contrast between the slightly salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate makes each bite an adventure in balanced flavors.

The best peanut butter cookies deliver a satisfying chewiness with crisp edges that keep cookie lovers coming back for more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out in the kitchen, these cookies offer a foolproof way to impress family and friends. As the saying goes, “The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven” – a sentiment that explains why these cookies have remained a beloved classic for generations. Interested in submitting your own dessert recipe with a unique twist on this classic? We’d love to feature it!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor and melty chocolate chips. A perfect combination of sweet and nutty in every bite!

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Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 170 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

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• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or milk chocolate

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Customization: Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch or use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Freezing Tip: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake straight from the freezer when needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.7mg

Keyword brown butter peanut butter cookies, easy cookie recipe, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Peanut Butter Dessert

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The Rich History Behind Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

The story of peanut butter cookies begins in the early 1900s when peanut butter became widely accessible across America. Initially introduced without the now-iconic fork marks, these simple cookie recipes gained tremendous popularity during the Great Depression. Their affordable ingredients – primarily peanut butter, flour, and sugar – made them accessible even during times of economic hardship.

Adding chocolate chips to peanut butter cookies was a natural progression that occurred as both flavors were independently beloved by Americans. By the mid-20th century, the combination had become a standard offering in bakeries nationwide. This evolution represents the American tradition of culinary innovation – taking two excellent things and combining them to create something even better.

Today’s 2025 cookie recipes continue to build upon this classic foundation, with variations appearing everywhere from high-end bakeries to family cookbooks. The staying power of peanut butter chocolate chip cookies speaks to their perfect balance of flavors and textures that appeal to people of all ages. If you’re a fan of peanut butter cookie treats, you’ll appreciate how this recipe has stood the test of time.

Everything You Need for Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creating these bakery-style peanut butter chocolate chip cookies requires just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:

For the ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the equipment:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork for dry ingredients
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper (optional but recommended)
• Cooling rack
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon (for uniform cookies)

These easy peanut butter cookie recipes for beginners don’t require any specialty equipment, making them accessible to anyone with a basic kitchen setup. The quality of your peanut butter can make a difference – commercial brands like Jif or Skippy tend to work better than natural varieties due to their consistent texture. For an interesting twist, try combining peanut butter with other flavors in your dessert repertoire.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfect Cookies

Follow these detailed instructions to create soft and chewy peanut butter cookies that will impress everyone who tries them:

1. Prepare your oven and equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Mix in the peanut butter until completely incorporated and smooth.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make cookies tough.
6. Add chocolate chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Form cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form balls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Optional classic touch: If you want the traditional peanut butter cookie look, gently press a fork into the top of each cookie in a crisscross pattern.
9. Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
10. Cool properly: Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

The key to best peanut butter chocolate chip cookie recipes for 2025 is in the timing – don’t overbake them if you want that perfect chewy texture. The cookies should look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven, as they continue cooking on the hot baking sheet. Looking for more chocolate chip variations? Check out these classic chocolate chip cookies with their own special twist.

Complete Recipe Card

Delicious Variations and Pro Baking Tips

There are countless ways to customize these peanut butter cookies chocolate chip cookies to suit your preferences. Here are some popular variations to try:

• Chocolate Chip Varieties: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even butterscotch chips for different flavor profiles.
• Nut Additions: Add 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts, walnuts, or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Healthier Alternatives: Use natural peanut butter (well-stirred) and reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet version. You can also substitute some whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Flavor Boosters: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for additional depth of flavor.
• Stuffed Cookies: Wrap the dough around a mini peanut butter cup or caramel for a delicious surprise center.

For bakery-style results every time, keep these professional tips in mind:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and even peanut butter are at room temperature for the best incorporation.
• Chilling Option: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 1-2 hours before baking.
• Consistent Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that will bake evenly.
• Visual Doneness Cue: Look for slight golden edges but still-soft centers when determining if cookies are done.
• Cooling Technique: Always allow cookies to set on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

These chocolate chip cookie variations allow you to create a different experience each time you bake. For those who enjoy experimenting with cookie recipes, you might also love our cookies and cream cookies recipe that brings a different but equally delightful flavor profile. Don’t forget to browse our churro-themed apparel while enjoying your freshly baked treats!

Expert Storage Guide for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Properly storing your peanut butter cookies with semi-sweet chocolate chips is crucial to maintaining their fresh-baked taste and texture. Follow these methods for the best results:

Room Temperature Storage (3-5 Days)

For short-term storage, place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. Add a slice of bread to the container to help the cookies retain moisture – the bread will become stale while your cookies stay soft. Keep the container away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Refrigerator Storage (Up to 2 Weeks)

When storing cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, add a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Let refrigerated cookies sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore their soft texture and allow the flavors to fully develop. This method works great for extending freshness beyond a few days.

Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months)

For long-term storage of peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, freezing is the best option. Once completely cooled, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag with parchment between layers. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For an extra-fresh taste, warm them in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes. This best way to keep cookies fresh helps preserve both texture and flavor. If you love baking in batches, you can also try freezing cookie dough balls for fresh-baked cookies anytime.

These storage methods work equally well for other cookie varieties like our chewy banana chocolate chip cookies that combine another delicious flavor with chocolate. Before storing your freshly baked goodies, why not submit your favorite local dessert shop to our directory to share the sweet love?

A Timeless Treat For Every Cookie Jar

Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies represent more than just a delicious treat – they embody comfort, nostalgia, and simple pleasures. From their humble origins during the Great Depression to their status as a modern classic in the 2025 cookie recipes lineup, these cookies have maintained their appeal through generations.

What makes these cookies truly special is their remarkable versatility. They can be dressed up for special occasions or kept simple for everyday enjoyment. The basic recipe serves as a perfect canvas for personal creativity, allowing bakers to customize according to their preferences while maintaining that distinctive peanut butter-chocolate harmony.

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, packing them in lunchboxes, or simply enjoying with an afternoon cup of coffee, these best peanut butter cookies deliver satisfaction every time. Their straightforward preparation makes them accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while their irresistible flavor ensures they’ll disappear quickly whenever you make them.

So heat up your oven, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these timeless favorites. With their perfect balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, these peanut butter chocolate chip cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Happy baking!