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Peanut Butter Cookies with Milk Chocolate Center are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and creamy. These cookies feature a soft, buttery peanut butter cookie base with a smooth milk chocolate center, making them a treat everyone will love. The classic pairing of peanut butter and milk chocolate gives these cookies an irresistible flavor that’s ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a party, or simply an indulgent snack at home.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 24 milk chocolate pieces (e.g., Hershey’s Kisses or chocolate squares)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla: Add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a milk chocolate piece into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies and remove them from the oven when the edges are just turning golden to keep them soft and tender.
- Press the Chocolate Immediately: Press the milk chocolate piece into the cookie right after baking to ensure it sticks and melts slightly for the perfect texture.
Recipe Variations
- Dark Chocolate Center: Replace the milk chocolate center with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Peanut Butter Cups: Use mini peanut butter cups in place of the milk chocolate pieces for extra peanut butter goodness.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use creamy, processed peanut butter for this recipe, as natural peanut butter can separate and affect the texture of the cookies.
Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Let it come to room temperature before forming the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Glass of Milk: Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat.
- With Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- As a Gift: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Peanut Butter Cookies with Milk Chocolate Center are a deliciously simple yet indulgent treat that combines two classic flavors. The soft peanut butter cookie with a creamy milk chocolate center is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the timeless combination of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite!
