Peanut Butter Candy Cookies
Peanut Butter Candy Cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter combined with the sweetness of candy. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with delightful surprises like M&Ms and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to bring smiles to faces young and old. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to keep making these delicious cookies again and again.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, freshly baked cookie that’s bursting with flavors. The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and candy creates a symphony of taste that is hard to resist. These Peanut Butter Candy Cookies are not only easy to make, but they also come together in just one bowl, making clean-up a breeze. The chewy texture and the delightful crunch from the candy pieces ensure that each bite is a delicious surprise. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just for yourself, these cookies will quickly become a go-to recipe.
Ingredient Checklist
To make your Peanut Butter Candy Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (268g) peanut butter (use a no-stir shelf-stable brand like Skippy)
- ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 10 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Miniatures, unwrapped and chopped
- 1 cup M&Ms (any flavor)
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following gear:
- Baking Sheet: A standard-sized baking sheet will work perfectly.
- Parchment Paper: For easy cookie removal and minimal clean-up.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to mix all your ingredients together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for perfect cookies.
- Spatula: To mix and scoop your cookie dough.
- Cooling Rack: To allow cookies to cool evenly.
Cook Peanut Butter Candy Cookies Like This
Follow these steps to create your delicious Peanut Butter Candy Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack the large egg into the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. This will help bind your cookies together.
Step 4: Fold in the Candy
Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Miniatures and the M&Ms into the cookie dough. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.
In-Season Flavor Ideas
Want to switch things up? Here are some seasonal flavor ideas to enhance your Peanut Butter Candy Cookies:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor during the fall.
- Incorporate peppermint extract during the winter holidays for a festive twist.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of M&Ms for a creamy variation.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Troubles You Can Avoid
Here are some tips to ensure your Peanut Butter Candy Cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Make sure to use a no-stir peanut butter for the right consistency.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the egg; this keeps the cookies soft.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly will keep the cookies chewy.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to avoid breakage.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Peanut Butter Candy Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, place cookies in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Peanut Butter Candy Cookies Q&A
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of shelf-stable?
While natural peanut butter can be used, it may result in a different texture since it can be more oily. If you choose to use it, be sure to adjust the amount slightly to maintain the cookie’s structure.
What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?
You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup) for a vegan version.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular peanut butter with a gluten-free brand and ensure that any candy used is also gluten-free.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden brown, while the centers should still appear soft. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this recipe, consider trying these delightful treats:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Easy Banana Bread
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Wrap-Up
Peanut Butter Candy Cookies are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet cravings. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, these cookies are perfect for any baking enthusiast. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, they are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in these delicious cookies!
Indulging in these Peanut Butter Candy Cookies will surely brighten your day. Their rich flavor and fun texture make them a favorite among family and friends. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Candy Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Crack the large egg into the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. This will help bind your cookies together.
- Gently fold in the chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Miniatures and the M&Ms into the cookie dough. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.
Notes
- Use a no-stir peanut butter for the right consistency.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the egg; this keeps the cookies soft.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly will keep the cookies chewy.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to avoid breakage.
