Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two classic flavors: chocolate and peanut butter.
- Eye-catching swirl design perfect for parties or gifting.
- Easy-to-make recipe using common pantry ingredients.
- Soft, chewy texture with bursts of chocolate chips in every bite.
- Versatile enough for variations like adding nuts or using dark chocolate.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Brownie Dough:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Directions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until a smooth dough forms. Set aside.
- Prepare the Brownie Dough:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, white sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Assemble the Swirl Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take a small amount of both the peanut butter dough and the brownie dough, pressing them together lightly. Roll into a 1.5-inch ball.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your fingers or a fork to gently flatten each cookie slightly, maintaining the swirl pattern.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add a Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or walnuts for added texture.
- Dark Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.
- Mini Swirl Bites: Make smaller dough balls for bite-sized treats.
- Festive Touch: Sprinkle with coarse sugar or holiday-themed sprinkles before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
- Reheating: Gently warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their softness.
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to stir it thoroughly to avoid separation, as natural peanut butter can be oilier.
2. What type of cocoa powder works best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for the brownie dough to balance the sweetness.
3. Can I substitute white sugar with brown sugar in the brownie dough?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer and chewier.
4. Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Absolutely! Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
5. How do I keep the swirl pattern intact?
Gently press the doughs together without over-mixing to maintain distinct swirls.
6. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Use plant-based butter, a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
7. What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies.
8. Can I skip the chocolate chips in the brownie dough?
Yes, but the chocolate chips add a delightful texture and extra chocolate flavor.
9. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, but the centers can still look slightly soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike. With their unique design and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Try them today and experience the perfect swirl of deliciousness!
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A perfect swirl of rich chocolate brownie and creamy peanut butter creates these indulgent Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies. Easy to make and visually stunning, they’re a delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Brownie Dough:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough:
- Beat peanut butter, softened butter, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Mix in egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Brownie Dough:
- Whisk melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Mix in egg and vanilla extract.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take small amounts of each dough, press together, and roll into 1.5-inch balls.
- Place balls on baking sheet, flatten slightly while preserving the swirl pattern.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Ensure natural peanut butter is well-mixed if using.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder balances the sweetness of the brownie dough.
- Bake directly from frozen if freezing dough balls, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
