Ho to make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

These Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor and chunks of chocolate peanut butter cups in every bite. They are simple to make with pantry staples and deliver a bakery-style treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture with a slightly crisp edge
• Loaded with creamy peanut butter flavor
• Chocolate peanut butter cups melt beautifully into the dough
• Easy, no-chill recipe
• Perfect for parties, bake sales, or everyday treats
• Made with simple ingredients you likely already have

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g)
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (190 g)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (110 g)
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped chocolate peanut butter cups (about 170 g)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
5. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in the chopped chocolate peanut butter cups evenly throughout the dough.
8. Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 9–11 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips along with the peanut butter cups for extra chocolate flavor.
• Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty finish.
• Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
• Press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie right after baking for a decorative touch.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a subtle warm flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, warm a cookie in the microwave for 8–10 seconds to restore a soft, freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it is well stirred. Natural peanut butter may create a slightly softer dough due to its oil content.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.

Why are my cookies too flat?

This can happen if the butter is too soft or melted. Make sure it is softened but not greasy or liquid.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Results may vary slightly in texture.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a small slice of bread. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread and stay soft longer.

Can I use mini peanut butter cups?

Yes, simply chop them into smaller pieces or fold them in whole if they are very small.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, this recipe does not require chilling. However, if your kitchen is very warm, chilling for 20–30 minutes can help prevent spreading.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

What type of chocolate peanut butter cups work best?

Standard milk chocolate peanut butter cups work beautifully, but dark chocolate versions are also delicious.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers will look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are a classic treat that combines rich peanut butter dough with irresistible chocolate peanut butter pieces. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe delivers soft, chewy cookies that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just craving something sweet, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy.

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