Outrageously Delicious Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: The Best Homemade Recipe
Prepare yourself for a cookie experience that truly lives up to its “outrageous” name! This isn’t just another cookie recipe; it’s a journey to crafting the most irresistible chocolate chip peanut butter cookies you’ll ever taste. With a perfect balance of nutty peanut butter richness and melty chocolate goodness, these cookies bake up with a beautiful crackled top and a wonderfully soft, chewy center. While the original recipe is fantastic on its own, we’ll explore ways to truly elevate them, perhaps with extra peanut butter chips or a mix of milk and semi-sweet chocolate. Even without any fancy additions, these are reliably delicious, incredibly pretty, and sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Jump to the Full Recipe
My quest for the perfect peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie led me to this gem on Allrecipes.com many years ago. It quickly became a go-to, consistently delivering exceptional results. Over time, I’ve made only minor adjustments, primarily experimenting with various add-ins and refining the creaming process for the butter and sugar. This seemingly small detail plays a significant role in the final texture and appearance of these “outrageous” cookies.
My preferred method for achieving that light, airy texture is to start with cold butter and sugar. By beating them together thoroughly with an electric mixer until they become light and creamy, you incorporate a substantial amount of air. This aeration is crucial, especially when you later add the baking soda. The air pockets, combined with the leavening agent, create that delightful lift and contribute to the cookies’ signature crackled surface as they bake. Once the butter and sugars are perfectly creamed, the egg is added and beaten in well, further enhancing the airy structure of the dough.
Expert Tips for Perfect Outrageous Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
Even beloved recipes can spark different opinions, and it’s always fascinating to delve into the old reviews for this cookie on Allrecipes.com. While most bakers raved about these peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, a small percentage described them as bland or tasteless. This feedback often points to subtle but critical ingredient choices that can dramatically impact the outcome.
Choosing the Right Butter: Salted vs. Unsalted
One common culprit for a “bland” cookie is the butter choice. As a general rule, many older recipes, including this one, were developed using salted butter. If a recipe doesn’t specify “unsalted butter” and then instruct you to add salt, it’s often implied that salted butter is the intended ingredient. Using unsalted butter and only a quarter teaspoon of salt when the recipe truly calls for salted butter (and thus more sodium) can indeed lead to a less flavorful cookie. For the best results with this recipe, unless you’re confident in adjusting the salt content, using salted butter will give you that perfect flavor profile. If you only have unsalted, increase the salt slightly to a full ½ teaspoon.
The Importance of Peanut Butter Type
Another key factor in the success of these chocolate chip peanut butter cookies lies in the peanut butter itself. It’s crucial to use a mainstream, sugar-added creamy peanut butter, such as Jif or Skippy. The extra sugar in these types of peanut butter not only contributes to the overall sweetness but also plays a vital role in the cookie’s texture and spread. Natural peanut butter (the kind where oil separates) or no-sugar-added varieties, while delicious in their own right, behave differently in baking. They often result in cookies that are denser, crumbly, and don’t spread as beautifully, lacking the signature crackled appearance and chewy texture we’re aiming for. Stick to the classic creamy, sweetened kind for optimal results.
Oven Temperature and Browning
The baking temperature is another variable to consider. The recipe suggests 350°F (175°C), which is a great starting point. However, ovens can vary significantly. If you notice your cookies aren’t browning as much as you’d like, or if you prefer a slightly crispier edge with more pronounced golden color, you might consider increasing the oven temperature slightly to 375°F (190°C). This adjustment should be made cautiously and based on your oven’s performance. Always keep an eye on the cookies to prevent over-baking. A slightly higher temperature can also help achieve those desirable crackles on the surface, making your cookies look truly “outrageous.”
Achieving Those Signature Crinkles (Crackles)
Beyond ingredient choices, several factors contribute to the “outrageous” crackled look. Proper creaming of butter and sugar, as discussed, creates air bubbles that expand in the oven. The balance of sugar (especially brown sugar) and baking soda also plays a part. As the cookies bake, the edges set while the center remains softer. The rapid expansion of leavening agents and moisture evaporating causes the surface to stretch and crack, creating that beautiful, rustic appearance. Don’t underestimate the role of cooling time on the cookie sheet; it allows the cookies to set gently and maintain their structure before being moved.
Craving Just a Few? Try the Small Batch Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies!
Sometimes you don’t need a full batch of eighteen cookies, but the craving for these amazing chocolate chip peanut butter cookies hits hard! This recipe is already relatively small, yielding about 18 cookies, which is perfect for sharing or a family treat. However, if you’re baking for one or two, or simply want to try it out without committing to a larger quantity, adapting it to an even smaller batch is incredibly easy. Here are the measurements for a truly miniature batch, ensuring you get all the flavor and texture without the abundance.
This scaled-down version uses precise gram measurements for accuracy, as it can be tricky to halve small traditional measurements perfectly. Weighing ingredients is always recommended for baking precision, especially when adjusting recipes. For best results, use a kitchen scale.
- 50 grams granulated sugar (approximately ¼ cup)
- 35 grams brown sugar (approximately 3 tablespoons, packed)
- 60 grams unsalted butter (4 tablespoons plus about ½ teaspoon, preferably cold and cubed)
- 65 grams of creamy peanut butter (¼ cup, sugar-added variety)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 grams beaten egg (about 2 tablespoons – whisk a large egg and measure out this amount, or use an egg yolk for an even richer cookie)
- 65 grams of all-purpose flour (½ cup, spooned and lightly leveled)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt (use ⅛ if your butter is salted, or adjust based on your preference)
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (or your favorite blend of chocolates)
- 20 grams of rolled oats (about a quarter cup, adds a nice chew)
Follow the same instructions as the full recipe for mixing and baking. This small batch ensures you can enjoy freshly baked chocolate chip peanut butter cookies anytime, without feeling overwhelmed by leftovers!
Outrageously Delicious Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Outrageously Delicious Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
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Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar (70 grams)
- 4 oz salted butter (114 grams, preferably cold and cut into cubes)
- ½ cup creamy, sugar-added peanut butter (130 grams, like Jif or Skippy)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams, spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt (use ¼ if using unsalted butter and desire less salt)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or a mix of milk, dark, or peanut butter chips)
- ½ cup rolled oats (or quick oats, adds a lovely chewiness)
Instructions
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Prepare Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For optimal non-stick results and easy cleanup, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures even baking and prevents your delicious cookies from sticking.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, and cold, cubed butter. Using an electric mixer (either handheld or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment), beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is visibly light, fluffy, and creamy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies’ tender texture.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Next, beat in the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and the large egg. Continue beating until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture appears smooth and homogenous. Beat for approximately 1 minute after adding the egg to ensure it’s fully incorporated and adds to the dough’s airy structure.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed, preventing pockets of leavening agent or salt in the final cookies.
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Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter. Mix on low speed, just until the flour is incorporated. It’s vital not to overmix the dough at this stage, as excessive mixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tougher cookies. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks of flour remain visible.
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Stir in Oats and Chips: Using a sturdy spatula, gently fold in the rolled oats and your chosen chocolate chips. Mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough, but again, avoid overworking the dough.
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Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring you leave at least 2 inches of space between each cookie. This generous spacing allows for proper spreading during baking. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers still appear slightly soft and chewy. Remember, cookies continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the oven.
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Cooling: Let the freshly baked cookies sit on the hot cookie sheet for about 3 minutes after removing them from the oven. This crucial step allows them to firm up slightly, preventing them from breaking or crumbling when transferred. After 3 minutes, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, or at room temperature!
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This recipe typically yields about 18 incredibly delicious and truly outrageous chocolate chip peanut butter cookies, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Variations & Storage for Your Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
While these Outrageous Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies are absolutely perfect as is, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Instead of just semi-sweet chocolate chips, try a delightful mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate for a richer and more complex flavor profile. For an extra boost of nutty flavor, consider adding a handful of peanut butter chips, or for a delightful textural contrast, chop some roasted peanuts and fold them into the dough. White chocolate chips also make a fantastic addition, offering a sweet and creamy contrast to the peanut butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cinnamon or even a touch of flaky sea salt sprinkled on top before baking can elevate the flavors even further. Always ensure that any added ingredients don’t drastically alter the dough’s consistency; if you add a lot, you might need to adjust the flour slightly.
How to Store Your Cookies for Maximum Freshness
Once your chocolate chip peanut butter cookies have completely cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container. They will remain wonderfully fresh and chewy at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. To help keep them extra soft and prevent them from drying out, a clever trick is to place a slice of regular bread in the container with the cookies; the cookies will absorb moisture from the bread. Avoid refrigerating baked cookies, as the cold can actually dry them out and make them hard.
Freezing Tips for Cookie Dough & Baked Cookies
These cookies are fantastic for making ahead, whether you want to freeze the dough or baked cookies! To freeze the cookie dough, simply scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them until they are solid (this usually takes about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them; just place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra 2-4 minutes to the baking time.
Baked cookies can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Once your cookies are completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. Frozen baked cookies will retain their delicious flavor and texture for up to 1 month.
Why These Are The Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
What makes these chocolate chip peanut butter cookies truly “outrageous” and a cut above the rest? It’s the harmonious blend of carefully chosen ingredients and precise techniques that create an unparalleled experience. The rich, creamy texture derived from the right peanut butter, combined with the buttery crumb from proper creaming, results in a cookie that is both soft and satisfyingly chewy. The balance of sweetness from granulated and brown sugars ensures a complex flavor, with the molasses in the brown sugar adding depth and moisture. The touch of salt is crucial, as it enhances both the chocolate and peanut butter notes, making them pop. The distinctive crackled tops aren’t just for show; they’re a hallmark of a well-baked cookie with a perfect internal structure, indicating that ideal balance of crisp edges and a soft interior. Every bite offers that delightful mix of a classic American dessert, making them an instant crowd-pleaser and a reliable recipe for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy night in, a potluck, or a school bake sale, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear quickly and leave everyone asking for the recipe!
More Delicious Cookie & Dessert Recipes You’ll Love:
- Outrageous Oreo Brownies: A Decadent Treat for Chocolate Lovers
- Chewy & Delicious Outrageous Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- How to Make Big Batch Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Our Signature Outrageous Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies (this recipe!)