Peanut Butter Cup Christmas Cookies

Peanut Butter Cup Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a festive and irresistible way. These cookies are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
• Simple to make, even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or gifting.
• A festive twist on classic peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Peanut butter
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Miniature peanut butter cups, unwrapped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place one in each mini muffin cup.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and puffed.
8. Immediately press a miniature peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Festive Sprinkles: Decorate with red and green sprinkles to enhance the holiday theme.
• Nut-Free Option: Use a nut-free peanut butter alternative to make these suitable for those with nut allergies.
• Flavored Cups: Experiment with other miniature chocolate candies, such as caramel-filled cups or dark chocolate varieties.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in a microwave for 5-10 seconds.

FAQs

How do I keep the peanut butter cups from melting too much?

Allow the cookies to cool slightly before pressing the peanut butter cups in to reduce melting.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

Do I need to use a mini muffin tin?

Using a mini muffin tin helps the cookies hold their shape, but you can bake them on a regular baking sheet if needed.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture to the cookies, but smooth peanut butter works best for a classic texture.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

What’s the best way to unwrap peanut butter cups quickly?

Chill the peanut butter cups in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before unwrapping to make the process easier.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is easy to scale up for larger batches.

How can I make the cookies softer?

Avoid overbaking and consider adding an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for added moisture.

Can I use homemade peanut butter cups?

Yes, homemade peanut butter cups would work wonderfully and add a personal touch to the cookies.

What other toppings can I add?

Crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or mini marshmallows make great toppings for these festive cookies.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Christmas Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat that will win over your friends and family with their rich, peanut butter flavor and gooey chocolate centers. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cookies are sure to become a holiday baking tradition in your home.

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