There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting scent of fresh-baked cookies filling your home, and these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delectable way to bring that feeling to life. The moment you crack open a baking sheet, you’ll find towering cookies, their golden edges hinting at a soft, gooey center loaded with melting chocolate chunks. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an irresistible flavor that will transport you back to childhood memories of cookie jar dives and after-school treats.

What makes this recipe even better? You won’t need a stand mixer! In just a few easy steps, you can whip up these delights by hand, making them perfect for a spontaneous baking session or a cozy weekend treat. So, whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply indulge in a homemade classic, these cookies will be your new go-to. Grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

Why are Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies irresistible?

Indulgent, Chewy Perfection: These cookies deliver a thick, chewy texture that’s simply hard to resist.
No Mixer Required: You can easily make them by hand — no fancy equipment needed!
Childhood Nostalgia: The combination of rich peanut butter and gooey chocolate evokes warm memories of cookie-filled afternoons.
Versatile Treat: Add your twist with peanut butter chips or different chocolate flavors for a delightful variation.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are crowd-pleasers, ideal for everything from casual family gatherings to festive parties. Get ready to impress!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

• Gather your staples for these delightful cookies!

For the Cookie Base

Bleached All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups, 318 grams) – Provides excellent structure; if using King Arthur flour, reduce by 2 tablespoons for the best results.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully.
Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds a lightness to your cookies, complementing the chewy texture.
Fine Sea Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

For the Creamy Mixture

Unsalted Butter (1 stick, 113 grams) – Adds necessary moisture and rich flavor to the dough.
Creamy Peanut Butter (3/4 cup, 202 grams) – The star ingredient! Opt for smooth varieties for a consistent texture.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup, 100 grams) – Brings just the right amount of sweetness; slightly helps with spreading.
Dark Brown Sugar (1 cup, 200 grams) – Infuses moisture and depth of flavor thanks to its molasses content.

For Binding & Flavor

Large Eggs (2) + yolk (1, at room temperature) – Essential for binding and contributing to that irresistible chew.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Adds a sweet, aromatic touch that complements the chocolate.

For the Chocolate Goodness

Semisweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups, 340 grams) – Provides rich, gooey chocolate flavor; feel free to swap in milk or dark chocolate chips as you like.

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to become your new favorite! Happy baking!

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial for ensuring that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to combine.
Melt the butter in a large bowl and stir in the creamy peanut butter until it’s well blended. This warm mixture should look smooth and inviting, creating a rich base for your cookies.
Combine the granulated and dark brown sugars into the peanut butter mix. Mix in the eggs and extra yolk one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is incorporated nicely for a sweet, aromatic blend.
Gradually stir in the flour mixture until just combined. Be gentle here! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Then, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips for that delightful, gooey goodness.
Adjust the dough consistency if needed. If it appears crumbly, add 2 tablespoons of milk to help it come together smoothly. The dough should be moist but easy to handle.
Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, if possible. This resting period enhances the flavors and improves the texture of your cookies.
Scoop large balls (about 3 tablespoons each) onto the baking sheets, then gently flatten each ball a bit. This helps them spread while baking, creating those wonderful thick cookies you love.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring the perfect chewy center!
Cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Patience will reward you with cookies that are just perfect!

Optional: Serve warm with a glass of milk for a delightful treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy for those impromptu snack cravings!
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep your cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to seal them well to avoid drying out!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough portions wrapped in plastic wrap or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw and bake as directed!
Reheating: If you’ve frozen baked cookies, warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to revive their gooey goodness before enjoying with a glass of milk.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Nutty Boost: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra crunch and flavor.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a deliciously dairy-free treat.
Flourless Option: Replace the flour with 2 cups of rolled oats processed into flour for a gluten-free alternative. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness, as oats absorb more moisture.
Sweet Spice: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warm flavors for a cozy, spicy twist.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Incorporate dark chocolate chunks along with the semisweet chips for an indulgent chocolate experience. You can even mix in some cocoa powder for rich flavor.
Cookie Sandwiches: Sandwich your cookies with cream cheese frosting or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert that will have everyone coming back for more!
Low-Sugar Swap: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener if you want to keep it sweet but lower in calories. Adjust to taste!
Stuffed Cookies: Take a small ball of dough, place a piece of caramel or a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup in the center, and wrap it up! Bake for a fun surprise in every bite.

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Indulge in the comforting flavors of these delightful cookies by pairing them with equally delicious side treats!

Glass of Cold Milk: Nothing beats the classic combo! The coolness of milk perfectly balances the rich, warm flavors of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent dessert experience that melts in your mouth.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Add a decadent touch with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, enhancing the sweetness and creating a beautiful presentation.
Fresh Berries: Brighten your dessert with fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso complements the flavors beautifully, making for a cozy snack or indulgent treat.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies: For the ultimate peanut butter fan, serve these cookies alongside rich brownies for a delightful sweet overload.
S’mores Dip: This gooey, chocolatey dip adds a fun twist to dessert time, and you can scoop it with the cookies for a delicious combo.

These pairings will elevate your cookie experience, making every bite a comforting joy!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mixing Technique: Stirring the creamy peanut butter and melted butter until smooth prevents any lumps, ensuring a consistent texture in your cookies.
Chilling is Key: Allow the dough to chill for at least 24 hours. This step not only enhances flavor but also leads to that perfectly chewy texture when baked.
Properly Measure Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid overly dry cookies, which can result from packing flour into the measuring cup.
Flatten the Dough: Don’t skip flattening the cookie balls slightly before baking. This helps them spread evenly, as peanut butter cookies tend to remain thick without this step.
Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies in the oven; they should be golden on the edges but still soft in the center for that ultimate chewy bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while chilling in the refrigerator. Simply follow the first six steps of the recipe, then refrigerate the dough. This technique not only improves the chewiness of your cookies but also keeps them just as delicious when baked. When you’re ready to enjoy them, scoop and flatten the dough balls onto baking sheets, then bake as directed. If you need to, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my peanut butter?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for creamy peanut butter that is smooth and consistent. Natural varieties should be well-stirred to eliminate oil separation. Look for ones with simple ingredients—just peanuts and salt is perfect!

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
You can store your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, you might also consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! Simply wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap or seal it in a freezer bag, and it will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before following the baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime!

What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, don’t worry! This can happen if the butter has cooled too much or if the flour was measured incorrectly. To fix this, simply add 2 tablespoons of milk to the mixture and knead it gently until it holds together. It should be moist but not sticky!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
If you’re concerned about allergies, these cookies contain common allergens like gluten (in the flour) and nuts (from the peanut butter). For a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Always check the labels to ensure they’re safe for anyone with specific allergies!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Great question! Your cookies should be golden at the edges while still being soft in the center when they’re finished baking. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring a perfectly chewy bite every time. Keep an eye on them around the 12-minute mark—trust your instincts!