Name: Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (110g) brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 24 mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped (Reese’s recommended)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.4 from 27 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a delectable treat that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible, this Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe might just become your new go-to. Imagine a soft, chewy cookie infused with rich peanut butter flavor, topped with a gooey mini peanut butter cup that melts into perfection—pure bliss in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a crowd, or just because you deserve a little indulgence, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of sweet and salty that’s hard to resist.

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is the first step in whipping up this delightfully simple yet satisfying cookie. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and flavor profile you’ll love.

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter: Softened to help achieve that rich, creamy base for the dough.
1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing that signature nutty, luscious flavor.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s slight crispness around the edges.
1/2 cup (110g) brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note to the cookies.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds tenderness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour: Forms the cookie’s structure for that perfect chew.
3/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and maintain a soft texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds slight lift for a light bite.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
24 mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped: The luscious topping; Reese’s minis are highly recommended for that authentic taste.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your mini muffin tin ready either by greasing it lightly or lining it with paper liners. This prep ensures your cookies come out easily without sticking, setting the stage for cookie perfection.

Step 2: Cream the Buttery Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat these together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it is where we incorporate air, helping give your cookies a tender texture. Once fluffy, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter looks smooth and inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet peanut butter mixture, blending until just combined. Overmixing here can make cookies tough, so a gentle hand will keep them soft and chewy.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place each dough ball into your prepared mini muffin tin. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until you see the edges turning a light golden brown and the tops are just set, signaling they are perfectly baked without drying out.

Step 5: Press in the Mini Peanut Butter Cups

Right after pulling the cookies from the oven, gently press one mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm and soft. This way, the peanut butter cups will melt slightly, melding beautifully with the cookie. Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle some flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the cookies once the peanut butter cups have set. This adds a lovely visual appeal and an amplified flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a cup of rich coffee, or even a creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. The creamy and nutty notes complement cold or warm beverages beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe on a festive platter lined with wax paper or a rustic wooden board. You can also stack them with parchment paper in between for a charming homemade gift presentation. Wrapping them with a colorful ribbon makes for a delightful surprise at parties or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to five days, perfect for snacking through the week or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these delicious cookies later, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep wonderfully for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy their soft texture.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds or heat briefly in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This slightly melts the peanut butter cup topping again for that ooey-gooey goodness.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add an extra bit of texture and crunch to your Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe, which some people love. Just keep in mind the cookies might be a bit more crumbly depending on the bits included.

What if I don’t have mini peanut butter cups?

If mini peanut butter cups aren’t available, you can chop up regular sized ones or substitute with peanut butter chips or even chocolate chips for a different twist. While the classic mini cups are ideal, feel free to experiment.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy an equally tasty Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe. Just ensure the baking powder and baking soda you use are gluten-free as well.

How do I avoid the cookies spreading too much?

Make sure your butter and peanut butter are well chilled before baking and avoid over-mixing the dough. Using a mini muffin tin helps keep the shape, but chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can also help control spreading.

Can these cookies be made vegan?

With a few tweaks, yes! Use vegan butter, a flax egg or chia egg substitute instead of a real egg, and make sure the peanut butter cups you use are vegan-friendly. The Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe will still delight in this form!

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe is one that brings a little extra joy to your baking lineup. Whether as a sweet afternoon treat, a baked gift, or a crowd-pleaser, these cookies combine simple ingredients with exceptional flavor and texture. Give them a try—you might just find this becomes one of those recipes you come back to again and again, just like an old favorite friend.