Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to make, making them a crowd-pleaser for both chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike.
Let's dive into what makes these cookies so special. First up, butter adds a rich, creamy base to our cookies, while peanut butter brings that unmistakable flavor and a little extra moisture. We use a mix of granulated sugar and light brown sugar to create the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. Cocoa powder gives these cookies their deep chocolate flavor, complemented by the semi-sweet chocolate chips for bursts of melty chocolate goodness. Finally, roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft cookie base.
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but for a special treat, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey chocolate and peanut butter flavors. You could also crumble them over your favorite sundae for added texture and taste.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is key to preventing the cookies from sticking and ensuring even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and well-combined. You want everything to be smooth so the cookies bake evenly.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, beating just until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped roasted peanuts. These add great texture and flavor to the cookies.
Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.