Flavored peanut butter cookies

Delicious Peanut Butter Cookies

With a deep flavor and an irresistible texture, peanut butter cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion, especially for a road trip. If you're a sweet tooth and love experimenting with flavorful ingredients, these cookies are the ideal choice. I will present you with a simple yet flavorful recipe that will turn any moment on the road into a delicious experience.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 32 minutes
Number of servings: About 20 cookies

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 g (1 3/4 cups) of flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 100 g (1/2 cup) of softened butter, at room temperature
- 1 large egg
- 200 g (1 cup) of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 g (1/2 cup) of peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, as preferred)

For the filling:
- 50 g (1/4 cup) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 100 g (1/2 cup) peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chocolate

A Brief History

Peanut butter cookies have gained popularity worldwide due to their unique combination of textures and the savory flavor of peanuts. This ingredient has been used for centuries but began to gain popularity in baking recipes, especially in the 20th century. Peanut butter cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, as they can be customized with various fillings and spices, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Start by mixing the softened butter with the granulated sugar in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer or a spatula, mixing until you achieve a creamy and fluffy consistency.
2. Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and peanut butter. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated. The peanut aroma will immediately fill the kitchen!
3. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking soda. This step is essential for achieving fluffy cookies, so ensure the ingredients are well combined.
4. Add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture and mix gently. You will notice that the dough becomes sticky, but don’t worry, this is the desired texture.

Step 2: Chilling the Dough

5. Shape the dough into a log about 5 cm in diameter. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is important as it will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

6. While the dough chills, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, cinnamon, cloves, peanut butter, cocoa, vanilla sugar, and chopped chocolate. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.
7. Form small balls from the filling, each about 1.5 cm in diameter. Place them on a plate and refrigerate them to firm up a bit.

Step 4: Assembling the Cookies

8. Remove the dough log from the refrigerator and cut it in half lengthwise, then each half into 10 slices widthwise. Now you have 20 portions of dough!
9. Wet your hands with water, take each piece of dough, and press it into a thin disc about 0.3 cm thick.
10. Place a ball of filling in the center of each disc and wrap it well, ensuring there are no cracks. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Baking

11. Preheat the oven to 165-170°C. Gently flatten the cookies with the bottom of a jar to give them an even shape.
12. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden. Let them cool on a rack after removing them from the oven.

Practical Tips

- Peanut oil vs. peanut butter: If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can use peanut butter with chunks of peanuts. This will add a crunchy texture to your cookies.
- Storing cookies: These cookies are even more delicious the next day, so don’t hesitate to prepare them a day before a trip.
- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings by adding nuts, raisins, or even caramel pieces for an extra flavor boost.

Perfect Pairings

These peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even a creamy smoothie. Offer them to your friends at a party or take them with you on hikes for an energizing snack!

Nutritional Benefits

Peanut butter cookies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, providing energy and satisfaction. Additionally, these cookies contain simple ingredients without additives or preservatives, making them a healthier option for a quick snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture and taste may vary.
- Can the cookies be frozen? Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Can I add white or dark chocolate? Yes, adding chopped chocolate to the dough or filling will enhance the flavor and create a delicious combination.

Now that you have all the necessary information, don’t wait any longer! Get into the kitchen and prepare these peanut butter cookies that will delight anyone who tastes them. Enjoy every bite!