Hey there, cookie lovers! If you’re anything like me, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is simply irresistible. That’s why I’m super excited to share this recipe for Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies! They’re easy to make, and the best part? You get that delicious brownie texture wrapped up in a cookie. It’s a win-win situation! Imagine biting into a warm cookie with gooey chocolate and that lovely peanut butter goodness—that’s happiness you can hold in your hand. Let’s dive in!
The Nutritional Benefits
You might not think of cookies as healthy, but hear me out! These Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies do come with some nutritional benefits. Peanut butter is a fantastic source of protein, healthy fats, and even some vitamins and minerals. It gives you that feeling of fullness and energy, which is great when you’re chasing after kids or just need a little pick-me-up! Plus, the cocoa in the brownie mix contains antioxidants, making these cookies a little more than just a treat.
Fun Variations to Make
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend—your cookies will still be delicious!
- Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped peanuts or walnuts for an extra crunch that will take your cookies to the next level!
- Chocolate Lovers Unite: If you crave even more chocolate, throw in some chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough.
- Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative that still packs a flavor punch!
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, your choice!)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brownie mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Serves 12–14 people
- Standard cookie portions → about 12–14 cookies
Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy baking.
- In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Now, gently stir in the brownie mix, flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop some cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- For the swirl, you can take a small spoonful of extra brownie batter and place it on top of the cookie dough, then swirl it with a toothpick for a cute design.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center looks slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool!
- Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Valuable Tips
- For an extra chewy texture, be sure not to overbake your cookies. They will continue to bake a little after coming out of the oven.
- If you want to soften up the cookie, you can store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—this keeps them nice and chewy!
- These cookies can be frozen! Just wrap them tightly in plastic and store them in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need to get started:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat
- Scoop (tablespoon or cookie scoop) for portioning the dough
- Wire rack for cooling cookies
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butters can be more oily, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly to get the right consistency.
- How do I know when the cookies are done? They should be firm around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to bake on the sheet after removal.
- Can these cookies be made in advance? For sure! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just let it soften a little before baking.
- How do I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. Add a slice of bread to keep them soft!
- Can I add other mix-ins? Absolutely! Get creative with nuts, dried fruit, or even different types of chocolate for a fun twist!
I can’t wait for you to try these Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies! They’re a delightful treat any day of the week. Once you’ve baked them, I’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo, share it on Pinterest, and let’s keep spreading the cookie love! Enjoy!
