Who doesn’t love a sweet treat that’s easy to make yet delivers a flavor punch? These Peanut Butter Cookie Bites are the epitome of comfort baking, combining rich peanut butter with gooey chocolate in a bite-size form perfect for sharing—or indulging on your own. Not only are they incredibly delightful, but they also require minimal effort, making them a fantastic option for last-minute gatherings or a cozy evening dessert. You’ll fall in love with the way each soft cookie envelops a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup, creating a heavenly experience for your taste buds.
This recipe is not only about satisfying your sweet cravings; it incorporates simple ingredients that elevate your baking skills without overwhelming you. The simplicity of using pantry staples like flour and sugar, combined with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, makes these cookie bites a beloved family treat. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Sunday brunch, a birthday party, or just a quiet evening at home. Let’s dive in and discover how to whip up these delectably easy Peanut Butter Cookie Bites.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Bites
- Deliciously sweet: The combination of creamy peanut butter and mini chocolate chips is irresistible.
- Easy to prepare: With uncomplicated steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for sharing: Yielding 24 cookie bites, they are perfect for parties or family gatherings.
- Versatile: Serve them as snacks, desserts, or take them to potlucks!
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or adjust to personal taste preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before getting started, preparing your kitchen and workspace is key to ensuring a smooth cookie-making process. First, gather your ingredients and tools: you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a whisk for mixing, measuring cups, a spatula for folding in ingredients, and a mini muffin pan to shape your cookie bites.
If you prefer, you can preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to have it ready by the time your dough is prepared. A simple tip is to ensure that your unsalted butter is softened at room temperature; this makes it much easier to cream with the sugars. Lightly greasing your mini muffin pan will also prevent any sticking, making the removal of cookie bites a breeze.
Ingredients
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- 120 g creamy peanut butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 110 g packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 155 g all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 130 g mini chocolate chips
- 24 mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, unwrapped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures that your cookie bites will start cooking immediately when they’re placed in the oven, achieving that tender texture we all love.
Step 2: Cream the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to lighter cookies.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated. This will further enhance the flavor and moisture of your cookie bites.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour before adding it to the wet mixture, helping avoid clumps.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your creamed base, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cookies tender and avoids a dense result.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Now, gently fold in your mini chocolate chips. This sweet addition distributes delicious pockets of chocolate throughout your dough, making every bite a treat.
Step 7: Prepare Your Muffin Pan
Lightly grease your mini muffin pan to ensure easy removal of the cookie bites post-baking. This is an important step for maintaining the integrity of your baked goods.
Step 8: Form the Cookie Bites
Using your hands, roll the cookie dough into balls approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. Place each ball into the greased muffin cups, making sure they have some space between them for even baking.
Step 9: Bake and Top with Peanut Butter Cups
Bake the bites in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until you see their tops turning lightly golden brown. As soon as they come out of the oven, immediately press a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup into the center of each warm cookie. This will create a melty, delicious core.
Step 10: Cool Down
Let the cookie bites cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, which will help them firm up a bit.
Variations
- Protein: Swap half the peanut butter for a protein powder for a healthier snack.
- Vegetables: Add finely chopped nuts for added crunch or use almond butter for a unique flavor twist.
- Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth to your cookie bites.
Cooking Notes
- It’s essential to let your butter soften at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
- Consider using a silicone muffin pan for easy removal of cookie bites.
- Store your cookie bites in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
- If the dough seems too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can help with shaping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or milk for a perfect pairing.
- Arrange on a decorative platter for special occasions and watch them vanish!
Tips
- Ensure you use mini Reese’s cups as they fit the bite-size perfectly.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips – try dark chocolate or white chocolate!
- For a crunchier texture, bake them slightly longer but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- These cookie bites also make great gifts – package them in a cute jar!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 90mg
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred and free of excess oil. Natural peanut butter has a different consistency and may affect the texture.
Can I freeze these cookie bites?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container, and they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
How do I store leftover cookie bites?
Keep them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to a week for the best freshness.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’ll still enjoy the same delicious taste.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Cookie Bites will surely become a staple in your household all year round. Whether you’re indulging solo or entertaining guests, their irresistible flavor and simple preparation make them a go-to dessert. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to personalize this recipe to your taste. Remember to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Happy baking, and enjoy your delightful cookie bites!
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Peanut Butter Cookie Bites
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookie bites 1x
Description
These Peanut Butter Cookie Bites are the epitome of comfort baking, combining rich peanut butter with gooey chocolate in a bite-size form perfect for sharing—or indulging on your own.
Ingredients
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- 120 g creamy peanut butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 110 g packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 155 g all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 130 g mini chocolate chips
- 24 mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, unwrapped
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, take your softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.
- In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your creamed base, mixing until just combined.
- Now, gently fold in your mini chocolate chips.
- Lightly grease your mini muffin pan to ensure easy removal of the cookie bites post-baking.
- Using your hands, roll the cookie dough into balls approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. Place each ball into the greased muffin cups.
- Bake the bites in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Let the cookie bites cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
Store your cookie bites in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Protein: 3 g