Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cookies

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. These Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cookies are a perfect way to indulge in that classic pairing. With a soft, chewy cookie base filled with creamy peanut butter, all enveloped in rich chocolate, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is easy to follow and yields cookies that are simply irresistible.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines the richness of butter with the creaminess of peanut butter and the sweetness of sugar, creating a deliciously decadent cookie. The addition of cornstarch and cream of tartar ensures these cookies remain soft and chewy. The dark cocoa powder adds a deeper chocolate flavor, while the melted chocolate coating elevates these cookies from good to extraordinary.

Shopping List

• 1 cup butter (softened) – Use unsalted for better control over the sweetness.
• 1 cup sugar – Regular granulated sugar for sweetness.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar – Adds a smoother texture.
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cookies moist.
• 2 eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch – Helps with the cookie texture.
• 1/2 tsp cream of tartar – Enhances the cookie’s softness.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder – Dark cocoa for a richer flavor.
• 4 1/2 cups flour – The base for our cookies.
• 1/4 cup additional sugar – For rolling the cookies.
• 2 bags Brach’s Milk Chocolate Double Dippers – Perfect for coating.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – The star of the show!
• 6 TBSP butter (melted) – For the peanut butter filling.
• 6 TBSP powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling.
• 1 tsp vanilla – Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 cup chopped chocolate or chocolate chips – Semi-sweet works best.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a luscious chocolate coating.

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – Makes mixing easier and faster.
• Baking sheets – For placing the cookies while they bake.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
• Wire rack – To cool the cookies properly.
• Cookie scoop – Ensures uniform cookie sizes.

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cookies: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vegetable oil and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Roll and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in the additional 1/4 cup of sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies

Once the cookies are cool, take one cookie, spread a generous amount of the peanut butter filling on the flat side, and then top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are filled.

Step 8: Melt the Chocolate Coating

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips with the heavy cream. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 9: Coat the Cookies

Dip each cookie sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Place the coated cookies back onto the parchment-lined baking sheets and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
• Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free version.
• Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option.
• Choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content for less sugar and more antioxidants.

Notes on Ingredients

The choice of cocoa powder is essential for achieving the desired chocolate flavor. Dark cocoa powder gives a more intense flavor, but regular cocoa powder works just as well if that’s what you have on hand. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cookies freeze beautifully. Once the chocolate has set, place the cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will last in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your cookies, giving them an extra crunch.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be slightly firm around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for later use. Just be sure to let it thaw before baking.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to stay fresh longer, keep them in the refrigerator.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delicious cookie recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Check out their creative dessert ideas.
• Minimalist Baker – Perfect for simple and easy baking recipes.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details for making these delightful Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started. The process is straightforward, and the outcome is a batch of cookies that will impress your friends and family alike.

With each bite, you’ll experience the rich chocolate, the creamy peanut butter, and the soft cookie texture coming together in a symphony of flavors. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual gatherings, or simply as a treat for yourself. Enjoy the process of baking, and share the joy of these cookies with those you love. Happy baking!