If you’re craving a cookie that perfectly marries rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, you have to try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe. These cookies boast a tender, chewy texture with luscious pockets of mini chocolate chips and an irresistible powdered peanut butter coating, all crowned by a classic chocolate kiss in the center. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because, this recipe brings the perfect balance of indulgence and nostalgia that’s impossible not to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime. Each ingredient plays a star role in building the cookie’s irresistible flavor and texture, from the creamy peanut butter enriching every bite to the powder sugar lending that classic crinkly look.
- Butter (2 sticks, room temperature): Provides rich flavor and a tender crumb to the cookies.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup, divided): Adds intense peanut flavor and a moist, chewy texture.
- Light brown sugar (1/2 cup): Gives a subtle molasses note and softness.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Helps with sweetness and slight crunch in the dough.
- Egg (1): Binds ingredients and adds moisture for perfect structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances overall flavor with warmth and depth.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/3 cups): Creates the cookie’s sturdy yet tender base.
- Baking soda (3/4 teaspoon): Helps cookies spread and become soft inside.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Contributes to a light, airy texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness for full flavor.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/3 cup): Melt into gooey pockets for chocolate bursts.
- Powdered sugar (2/3 cup): Coats each cookie dough ball for that signature crinkle look and a sweet finish.
- Chocolate kisses (36–40): The crowning touch placed in each cookie after baking.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F to get it perfectly hot for baking. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Getting this set-up right ensures an effortless baking experience and beautiful cookies every time.
Step 2: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, half of the peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture turns silky smooth and creamy. This step builds the foundation of flavor and lovely texture for the cookies. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything comes together harmoniously.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Mix In Chocolate Chips
Slowly add in your flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined to prevent tough cookies. Gently fold in those mini chocolate chips to ensure you get delightful chocolate bursts in every bite—this is what makes our Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe so decadently addictive.
Step 4: Make the Powdered Peanut Butter Coating
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining peanut butter and powdered sugar. The mixture will be slightly clumpy but moist, perfect for coating. Cover this and chill it for at least 30 minutes to get a firm texture that clings well to the dough balls. This step is key to achieving the iconic crinkle appearance and that extra layer of peanut butter goodness.
Step 5: Form and Roll the Dough Balls
Use a teaspoon to scoop about 2 teaspoons of dough at a time, rolling each into a ball. Then roll the dough balls in the chilled powdered peanut butter mix, pressing lightly so the coating sticks perfectly. Arrange the coated balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies room to spread and become perfectly round as they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for edges that look set while the centers remain slightly doughy. This timing helps the cookies stay chewy and moist rather than dry or crumbly. The texture is everything with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe, so baking just right is crucial.
Step 7: Add the Final Chocolate Kiss
Once the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each while they’re hot. This melts the bottom of the kiss slightly and creates a stunning centerpiece. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavors.
Step 8: Store for Freshness
Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh at room temperature for up to a week. Storing them properly lets you savor the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter anytime you want.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding subtle garnishes can transform your cookies from delightful to show-stopping. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the warm cookies enhances the sweetness and peanut butter depth. Or, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate to add extra visual appeal and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a smooth cup of coffee for a timeless pairing. For a fun twist, try vanilla bean ice cream or peanut butter fudge to create a decadent dessert plate that everyone will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies in a festive tin or on a pretty platter with fresh fruit or nuts for parties. For gifting, stack them between parchment paper and wrap with colorful ribbon. You can even dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peanuts for an extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture and vibrant flavors. They hold up well for up to a week, making them perfect for baking ahead of time for events or just to have on standby.
Freezing
If you want to save your cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready for a quick, fresh-tasting treat.
Reheating
To enjoy cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for 5 minutes. This melts the chocolate slightly and regains that freshly-baked softness and melty peanut butter taste.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can use crunchy peanut butter, but it will add a bit of texture to the batter. Creamy peanut butter gives the smoothest, most tender cookie, which is why it’s recommended for this recipe.
Why do the cookies need to be chilled in powdered peanut butter before baking?
Chilling the peanut butter and powdered sugar mixture helps it become firm enough to stick to the cookie dough, creating the classic crinkle effect when baked and adding a sweet, peanutty coating.
Can I substitute the chocolate kisses with another chocolate type?
Absolutely! You can use mini chocolate bars, chunks, or even other flavored chocolate pieces. The key is to press them into the cookies right after baking so they melt slightly and stay in place.
How do I avoid overbaking these cookies?
Keep a close eye on the baking time and watch for edges that look set while the centers remain soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so pulling them from the oven early ensures chewy, moist cookies.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy these cookies gluten-free. Just make sure your baking soda and powder are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping cookie that feels like a warm hug, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe is your answer. It’s easy to make, endlessly delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a moment of self-care. Go ahead, treat yourself, and see why these cookies may just become your new favorite.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 36 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a soft, chewy treat. Rolled in a powdered sugar and peanut butter coating, baked to perfection, and topped with a chocolate kiss, these cookies deliver a delightful texture and taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 sticks butter at room temperature
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, divided
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
Coating
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
Topping
- 36–40 chocolate kisses
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter, 1/2 cup of the peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter with the powdered sugar. The mixture will be clumpy and moist. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 days, so it firms up for coating the cookie dough balls.
- Form and Coat Cookie Dough Balls: Using a teaspoon measure, roll the dough into balls about 2 teaspoons in size. Roll each ball in the chilled peanut butter and powdered sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Place the coated balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain slightly soft for a chewy texture. Take care not to overbake to avoid dryness.
- Add Chocolate Kisses and Cool: Right after removing from the oven, press one chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with sea salt; let the chocolate set at room temperature.
- Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender and chewy.
- Refrigerating the coating mixture is essential to help it adhere well to the cookie dough balls.
- Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- You can substitute chocolate kisses with your favorite chocolate pieces or candies.
- Optionally drizzle melted chocolate and sprinkle sea salt for enhanced flavor contrast.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh.
