If you’re anything like me, you know there’s a special kind of comfort in a warm cookie straight from the oven. I grew up with a peanut butter cookie in the pantry—those soft, crinkled classics that always made rainy afternoons feel brighter.
However, over the years, I’ve learned that the best cookies are those that blend nostalgia with a touch of modern magic. That’s why these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are my go-to: they deliver the perfect chewy centre, slightly crisp edges, and a rich peanut butter flavour balanced by melty chocolate chips.
Every time I bake these, the house fills with that irresistible aroma that makes everyone instantly gather in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a bake sale, acosyy night in, or just because you deserve a treat, these cookies never disappoint.
What is the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe?
A Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip CookieRecipe is a classic cookie that combines creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips into a soft, chewy cookie dough.
Unlike plain chocolate chip cookies, these have a deeper, nutty flavour and a richer texture because of the peanut butter.
While peanut butter cookies are traditionally simple and often crisscrossed with a fork, this version adds chocolate chips to create a decadent twist. The result is a cookie that’s both familiar and exciting—like your childhood favouriteupgraded for adulthood.
Origins & Background
Peanut butter cookies originated in the United States during the early 20th century, becoming popular as peanut butter became a common pantry staple. The chocolate chip addition is a more modern adaptation that blends two classic cookie styles into one irresistible treat.
How It Differs From Similar Cookies
- Peanut butter cookies focus on a nutty flavour and often have a drier texture.
- Chocolate chip cookies rely on butter for richness and chewiness.
- Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies combine both: nutty richness with chocolatey sweetness and a chewy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and chewy centre with slightly crisp edges
- Strong peanut butter flavour without being too oily
- Easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and freezing
- Customizable with add-ins like nuts or sea salt
- Great for all ages, from kids to adults
Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible cookies:
Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups (240 g)
Provides structure and a soft texture. - Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay chewy. - Salt – ½ teaspoon
Balances sweetness and enhances flavour.
Wet Ingredients
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup (113 g), softened
For richness and soft texture. - Creamy peanut butter – 1 cup (240 g)
Use natural or classic, but creamy works best for texture. - Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100 g)
For sweetness and crisp edges. - Brown sugar – ½ cup (110 g), packed
Adds chewiness and caramel notes. - Large eggs – 2
Binds the dough and helps create a chewy texture. - Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
Enhances overall flavour.
Mix-Ins
- Chocolate chips – 1 ½ cups (255 g)
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on preference.
Optional Toppings
- Sea salt flakes – ½ teaspoon
Adds a bakery-style finish and enhances sweetness.
Substitutions (Gluten-Free / Dairy-Free / Vegan)
- Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (same amount).
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil (same amount).
- Vegan option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons flax + 6 tablespoons water, chilled for 10 minutes). Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
- ½ cup softened butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
Beat for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add Peanut Butter & Eggs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Beat until fully combined and smooth.
Combine Dry & Wet
Slowly add the dry ingredientonto the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Add 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips and gently fold until evenly distributed.
Scoop & Shape
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion dough into 1.5-inch balls. Place on a baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Optional: Press a few extra chocolate chips on top.
Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. The centres should still look slightly soft.
Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Expert Tips for Best Results
For the Perfect Texture
- Do not overbake: Cookies will continue to set after being removed from the oven.
- Use room temperature eggs: This helps the dough combine smoothly.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill for 30 minutes before baking.
Flavor Enhancers
- Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth.
- Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavour.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much flour: Measure accurately using the spoon-and-level method.
- Overmixing: Overmixing develops gluten and makes cookies tough.
- Baking at high temperature: 350°F ensures even baking and a chewy texture.
Variations & Substitutions
Flavor Variations
- Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace ½ cup flour with ½ cup rolled oats.
- Peanut Butter Nutella Swirl: Add ¼ cup Nutella and swirl into the dough.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs + vegan butter + dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Lower sugar: Reduce granulated sugar to ⅓ cup (but expect slightly less chewiness).
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigeration: Cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
- Freeze dough balls: Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.
- Freeze baked cookies: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make peanut butter chocolate chip cookies soft and chewy?
To achieve a soft and chewy texture, avoid overbaking and use a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar. Brown sugar adds moisture, while baking for 10–12 minutes prevents dryness.
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, but natural peanut butter is more oily and may make the dough softer. You may need to chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute the flour for gluten-free flour?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the same quantity. The texture may be slightly different, but still delicious.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This usually happens when the dough is too warm or there is too much butter. Chill the dough for 20–30 minutes and measure ingredients accurately.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped peanuts or walnuts work beautifully. Add ½ cup for extra crunch.
What’s the best chocolate to use in peanut butter cookies?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, but milk chocolate or dark chocolate aalso workswell, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts / Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern baking magic. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavour balanced by sweet chocolate.
I love serving them warm with a glass of cold milk, or pairing them with vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert that feels fancy but is incredibly easy.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family treat, or just a quiet evening at home, these cookies are guaranteed to become a repeat favourite. Trythem once, and I promise you’ll keep coming back for more.
