Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies

Introduction:

Prepare to embark on a delectable journey filled with creamy peanut butter goodness and sweet cookie perfection with our Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies recipe. These delightful treats combine the classic comfort of homemade cookies with a delightful surprise – a gooey peanut butter filling hidden inside. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or impressing guests at gatherings, these Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. In this article, we’ll delve into the irresistible allure of these cookies, share a step-by-step recipe, and explore why they’re a must-try for any peanut butter lover.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup creamy peanut butter

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. If desired, fold in chocolate chips for an extra decadent touch.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and flatten them into discs.
8. Place a teaspoon-sized dollop of peanut butter in the center of half of the dough discs.
9. Top each peanut butter dollop with another dough disc and seal the edges to encase the peanut butter filling.
10. Place the stuffed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
12. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes | Total Time: 25-27 minutes
14. Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: Makes about 12 stuffed cookies

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Warm: For the ultimate indulgence, serve Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies warm out of the oven. The heat will help melt the peanut butter filling slightly, creating a gooey texture that is irresistible.
2. Pair with Milk: Accompany the cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic and comforting combination. The creamy milk helps balance the sweetness of the cookies and enhances their flavor.
3. Dust with Confectioners’ Sugar: Just before serving, dust the cookies with a light sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar for a decorative touch. This adds a hint of sweetness and enhances their visual appeal.
4. Package for Gifts: Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions. Tie them with ribbon or add a personalized gift tag for an extra special touch.
5. Accompany with Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Storage Tips:

1. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep any leftover Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This helps preserve their freshness and prevents them from becoming stale.
2. Layer with Parchment Paper: If stacking multiple layers of cookies in the container, place parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together and maintain their appearance.
3. Avoid Moisture: Store the cookies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Exposure to humidity can cause the cookies to become soft and lose their crispness.
4. Reheat Before Serving: If the cookies have been stored at room temperature and you prefer them warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
5. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to store the cookies for longer periods, they can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving or reheat as desired.

FAQs:

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for the filling? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer some texture in the filling. It will add a delightful crunch to the cookies.
2. Can I substitute almond butter or another nut butter for the peanut butter? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nut butters to create unique flavor combinations. Almond butter, cashew butter, or even hazelnut butter can be delicious alternatives.
3. How can I prevent the peanut butter from oozing out of the cookies while baking? To prevent the peanut butter from leaking out, ensure that you seal the edges of the cookie dough discs tightly around the peanut butter filling. Press the edges firmly together to create a secure seal.
4. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it before assembling the cookies? Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before assembling the cookies. Let the dough come to room temperature for easier handling before shaping and filling.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done baking? The cookies are done baking when they are golden brown around the edges. They may still appear slightly soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion:

Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for peanut butter enthusiasts and cookie lovers alike. With their crispy exteriors, soft interiors, and gooey peanut butter centers, these cookies offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or savored as a sweet snack throughout the day, Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you smiling with every bite. So why wait? Whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies today and treat yourself to a taste of pure peanut butter bliss.