🍪 Peanut Butter Chocolate Swirl Cookies


 

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

  • Perfect Pairing of Peanut Butter and Chocolate: The smooth, nutty richness of peanut butter combines beautifully with indulgent chocolate swirls for a match made in cookie heaven.
  • Soft & Chewy Texture: These cookies are irresistibly soft with just the right amount of crispness on the edges.
  • Simple to Make: No need for fancy gadgets—just mix, swirl, and bake!
  • Customizable: Get creative—add nuts, sprinkles, or even an extra drizzle of chocolate for that extra flair.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: A favorite for both kids and adults!

Ingredients You'll Need (Makes 18–20 cookies)

For the Peanut Butter Dough:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Chocolate Swirl:

  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (or shortening, for melting)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Dough

  • In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Swirl

  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and melted.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

  • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  • Slightly flatten each ball using the back of a spoon or your hand.
  • Drizzle the melted chocolate over each cookie in a zigzag pattern. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the chocolate into the dough, creating a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why This Recipe Works:

  • Peanut Butter Base: Adds a rich, nutty flavor with a soft, chewy texture.
  • Chocolate Swirl Magic: A decadent chocolate swirl that complements the peanut butter without overpowering it.
  • Easy Swirling Technique: Achieve beautiful marbled designs with minimal effort.

Variations to Try:

  • Chunky Peanut Butter: Use chunky peanut butter for added texture.
  • White Chocolate Swirl: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Vegan Version: Opt for plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or almonds for extra crunch.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they’re still slightly soft in the center—they’ll continue to set as they cool.
  • Even Swirling: Use a toothpick or skewer for gentle swirls; don’t overmix the chocolate.
  • Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Holiday Treats: Perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any festive occasion.
  • Romantic Touch: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a more elegant look.
  • Party Platter: Arrange these cookies on a dessert board, and serve with milk for dunking.

Final Thoughts:

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Swirl Cookies are the ultimate treat, offering a blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with a soft, chewy texture that's sure to impress. Whether you're baking for friends or enjoying a personal treat, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles.