Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. When it comes to cookie recipes, few can rival the magic of Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies. These delightful treats combine the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolatey chips and a hint of salt, creating a perfect balance that makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, this cookie recipe is sure to become your new favorite.
Why It’s My Go-To
Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies have become my go-to recipe for many reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make; even beginners in the kitchen can whip them up with confidence. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a classic that resonates with many, making these cookies a crowd-pleaser. Not to mention, the hint of salt elevates the flavor, enhancing the sweetness of the cookie while satisfying your savory cravings. Each bite is a delightful experience that leaves you wanting more, which is why I always make a double batch!
What You’ll Gather
Before you start baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup (156g) all-purpose flour – This is the base of our cookie.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – To enhance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – To help the cookies rise.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds richness and moisture.
- ¾ cup (160g) packed light brown sugar – For a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Balances the brown sugar and helps with texture.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup (200g) creamy salted peanut butter (ideally unsweetened), at room temperature – The star of the show!
- 1 tablespoon (21g) honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For an aromatic flavor boost.
- 1 cup (175g) peanut butter chips – These add extra peanut flavor and sweetness.
Equipment & Tools
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowls – For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk – To ensure everything is well-mixed.
- Rubber spatula – Perfect for folding in the chips.
- Baking sheet – Where your cookies will bake to perfection.
- Parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack – To allow your cookies to cool evenly after baking.
Cook Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies Like This
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda. This helps to distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Next, add the egg, creamy salted peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Fold in Peanut Butter Chips
Gently fold in the peanut butter chips using a rubber spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Scoop and Roll
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s perfectly fine as they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your warm, gooey Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Health-Conscious Tweaks
If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments, consider the following options:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Natural Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a lower glycemic index.
- Nut Butters: Use an unsweetened almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the sugar amounts slightly; the peanut butter chips add sweetness.
Testing Timeline
To ensure your cookies come out perfect every time, consider this testing timeline:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes on the sheet, followed by additional cooling on a rack.
- Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Want to save some for later? Here’s how to freeze your cookies:
- Baked Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Cookie Dough Balls: Scoop and roll the dough into balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Quick Q&A
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a delightful texture and added crunch.
What can I substitute for the peanut butter chips?
You can use chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Cook This Next
If you loved these Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, you might also enjoy:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Nutella-Stuffed Cookies
- Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Serve & Enjoy
These Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are nothing short of a treat. Whether you’re enjoying them warm out of the oven or with a cup of tea later in the day, they are sure to bring a smile to your face. Share them with friends, family, or keep them all to yourself—you truly can’t go wrong! The delightful blend of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy baking!
Salted Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, mix the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, creamy salted peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the peanut butter chips using a rubber spatula.
- Step 6: Scoop and roll the dough into balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 7: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour for half or all of the all-purpose flour.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
