Spicy Peanut Butter Cookies

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
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If you're looking to spice up your cookie game, these Spicy Peanut Butter Cookies are just what you need. Combining the comforting flavors of classic peanut butter cookies with a surprising kick, they offer a delightful twist. Perfect for those who love a mix of sweet and spicy!

Ingredients for Spicy Peanut Butter Cookies

The star of the show is, of course, peanut butter. It brings that rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture. The sugar sweetens the deal and helps the cookies hold their shape. An egg is essential for binding everything together, while vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note. The secret to the spice is a dash of cayenne pepper, which gives these cookies their unique kick. A bit of baking soda helps them rise slightly, and a touch of salt enhances all the flavors. Lastly, mini chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended for those who love a touch of chocolate.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/8 tsp.
  • For a more pronounced peanut flavor, use natural peanut butter.
  • If the dough seems too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk to balance out the spice. For an adult twist, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a pour of warm whiskey caramel sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more bite to the cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Spicy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready to bake as soon as your cookie dough is prepared. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Mixing these in well is key to a uniform dough. After that, add the cayenne pepper, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

If you're opting for a little extra indulgence, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who appreciate a chocolatey touch.

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To create the classic peanut butter cookie look, flatten each ball slightly with a fork, making a criss-cross pattern on the top.

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
  • Perfect blend of sweet and spicy for those who like a little heat.
  • Customizable with optional chocolate chips for added richness.
  • Gluten-free, making it accessible for more people to enjoy.

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add cayenne pepper, baking soda, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
5. Stir in mini chocolate chips if using.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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