There’s something utterly irresistible about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter that never fails to brighten my day. One afternoon, as I scoured my kitchen for a sweet treat, I discovered the perfect solution: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies. With their rich, creamy filling and decadent chocolate shell, these cookies quickly became my go-to for satisfying cravings that other desserts just can’t match.
As I pulled the first batch from the oven, the warm scent of melting chocolate mingled with hints of nutty goodness, instantly transporting me to a childhood filled with cookie dough and joy. These delightful snacks are not only impressively easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for a cozy gathering or simply to treat yourself after a long day. Trust me, once you’ve shared these cookies with family and friends, they’ll be begging for the recipe! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into how to whip up these little bites of happiness.
Why are Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies so special?
Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a mouthwatering taste that’ll have you reaching for seconds.
Decadent Center: Each cookie is filled with melty peanut butter cups, delivering a delightful surprise with every bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip these up in no time, even on a busy day.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies never fail to impress family and friends—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm, or pack them as a sweet treat for lunchboxes or picnics. For another excellent dessert idea, don’t miss our guide on baking perfect cookies!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 113 g butter – This adds a rich, creamy base that enhances the flavor.
- 100 g chocolate, chopped finely – Use high-quality chocolate for the best melt and taste.
- 70 g peanut butter – Creamy peanut butter gives the cookies their signature nutty flavor.
- 200 g granulated sugar – Sweetness is key to balancing the rich chocolate and peanut butter.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
- 1 egg yolk – Adds extra moisture and richness (reserve the white for another use).
- 1 tsp vanilla – A splash of vanilla elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Pinch salt – A small amount enhances the sweetness and brings out the chocolatey goodness.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become nice and fluffy.
- 180 g all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cookie, providing structure.
- 60 g Dutch process cocoa – This offers a deep chocolate flavor that’s rich and satisfying.
For the Topping
- Peanut butter cups, small – These are the delightful hidden treasures stuffed inside the cookies.
- Flaky sea salt – A sprinkle on top amplifies the flavors and adds a pleasant crunch.
Embrace your inner chef and treat yourself to these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies—they’re bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire!
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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Melt the butter in a heatproof bowl in the microwave. Stir in the finely chopped chocolate until fully melted, returning to the microwave for another 20-30 seconds if needed.
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Whisk together the melted mixture with the granulated sugar and peanut butter, followed by the salt, baking soda, and vanilla. Then, incorporate the egg and the egg yolk for a rich, gooey texture.
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Mix until combined! Grab a rubber spatula to fold in the cocoa and flour, blending until you create a cohesive dough that’s slightly sticky yet firm.
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Scoop the cookie dough using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, placing the mounds onto your prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 10 minutes until just set and lightly golden around the edges.
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Press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie about halfway down once they’re out of the oven. Allow them to sit for about 3-5 minutes to firm up, then gently press down again for that perfect filling!
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Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over the cookies to enhance the flavor as the peanut butter cups start to melt and meld into the cookie’s surface. Enjoy while warm or let them cool to room temperature!
Optional: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies?
These cookies are the perfect sweet addition to any gathering, but pairing them with delightful accompaniments will elevate your dessert table to new heights.
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Milkshake: The classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter pairs beautifully with a creamy milkshake, enhancing the flavors of both treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream combined with warm cookies creates an irresistible contrast of temperature and texture.
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Fresh Fruit: Consider serving sliced strawberries or bananas on the side for a refreshing, juicy contrast to the rich cookies.
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Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and intensify the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.
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Nutella Dip: Serve a small dish of Nutella for an indulgent dip—perfect for cookie lovers who crave an extra layer of flavor.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your cookies for an added layer of decadence that will take your cookies to the next level.
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Chai Tea: Enjoy a comforting cup of chai tea alongside your cookies, as the warm spices will complement the rich flavors beautifully.
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Peanut Butter Fudge: For those who can’t get enough, a small square of homemade peanut butter fudge will amplify the peanut butter love in every bite.
Elevate your cookie experience with these tasty companions, making every bite as memorable as the last!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative! These delightful cookies are ready for any personal touch you might dream up.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, gluten-free treat.
- Nut-Free: Use sun butter or soy nut butter instead of peanut butter to make these cookies allergy-friendly.
- Choco-Lovers: Stir in miniature chocolate chips in addition to the melted chocolate for an extra chocolatey experience.
- Sea Salt Caramel: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookies before serving for a sweet and salty twist.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Fold in dollops of peanut butter into the dough before baking for a swirled effect and added richness.
- Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Oatmeal Boost: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for added chewiness and texture; about 1 cup should do the trick.
- Minty Fresh: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing mint-chocolate sensation.
Let your imagination run wild—there’s a world of flavors waiting to transform these already marvelous cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and delicious!
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, but be aware they may dry out slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll last up to 3 months, ensuring you have a tasty treat on hand!
Reheating: To enjoy cookies straight from the freezer, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, ensuring the peanut butter cups melt beautifully!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
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Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality chocolate for melting; it greatly influences the overall flavor and texture of your cookies.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough, leading to a smoother consistency and fluffier cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until incorporated to avoid tough cookies. Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies should be soft and chewy!
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Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies, and take them out when the edges are set, but the centers look slightly underbaked to achieve that gooey texture.
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Add the Sea Salt: Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top! It adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but trust me—they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as per the recipe and store the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. If you’re planning to bake them later, you can also scoop the dough onto the lined cookie sheets, freeze the scoops, and transfer them to an airtight container once solid—this will keep them fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra minute to the baking time if baking from frozen. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cookies even on your busiest days!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chocolate for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate when making your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies. Look for chocolate that has at least 60% cocoa content for a deep, satisfying taste. It makes a world of difference in the melting consistency and overall flavor of your cookies!
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a particularly humid area, refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks is also an option, but this will make them slightly drier.
Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies? How?
Of course! To freeze the cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid. This usually takes about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or a freezer bag, labeling it with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them briefly in the microwave.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes. I recommend chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which will make it easier to scoop and shape. You can also lightly flour your hands or the cookie scoop to help with handling.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! Since this recipe includes peanut butter and chocolate, it’s essential to ensure that none of your guests have nut allergies. You can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a nut-free alternative, but keep in mind this could alter the overall flavor slightly. Always check the labels on your ingredients for potential cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Melt the butter in a heatproof bowl in the microwave. Stir in the finely chopped chocolate until fully melted, returning to the microwave for another 20-30 seconds if needed.
- Whisk together the melted mixture with the granulated sugar and peanut butter, followed by the salt, baking soda, and vanilla. Then, incorporate the egg and the egg yolk for a rich, gooey texture.
- Mix until combined! Grab a rubber spatula to fold in the cocoa and flour, blending until you create a cohesive dough that’s slightly sticky yet firm.
- Scoop the cookie dough using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, placing the mounds onto your prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 10 minutes until just set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie about halfway down once they’re out of the oven. Allow them to sit for about 3-5 minutes to firm up, then gently press down again for that perfect filling!
- Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over the cookies to enhance the flavor as the peanut butter cups start to melt and meld into the cookie’s surface. Enjoy while warm or let them cool to room temperature!