Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies: A Crunchy and Soft Delight in Every Bite

Who can resist a dessert that combines the crunchy texture of cookies with the creaminess of peanut butter and the sweetness of chocolate? This peanut butter cookie recipe is not only simple but also incredibly tasty, perfect for brightening up any afternoon or gathering with friends. Each cookie is an explosion of flavors that will make you come back to this recipe again and again. Let's venture into the delicious world of peanut butter cookies!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 18 cookies

Necessary ingredients:

- 125 g dark chocolate
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 125 g butter
- 125 g sugar
- 125 g peanut butter
- 4 tablespoons golden syrup (a rich-flavored sugar syrup)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda

Preparing the ingredients

To achieve perfect cookies, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help in achieving a uniform and delicious texture. Before starting, here are some details about the key ingredients:

1. Dark chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate for an intense and authentic flavor. Dark chocolate will add a sweet-bitter balance, perfect for your cookies.

2. Peanut butter: You can use natural peanut butter without additives for a more authentic and healthier taste. You can also experiment with chunky peanut butter for a more interesting texture.

3. Golden syrup: This syrup adds not only sweetness but also a distinct flavor. If you don't have golden syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup, although the taste will vary.

4. Flour: I recommend using all-purpose wheat flour to achieve soft and fluffy cookies. If you want a healthier option, you can combine all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Making the cookies

1. Melting the chocolate: Start by melting the dark chocolate in a double boiler. This process will allow the chocolate to melt evenly without burning. In a small pot, add water and place a bowl on top, ensuring that the bottom does not touch the water. Add the chocolate and stir until it becomes liquid and creamy. In another pot, heat the liquid cream until just before boiling, then add it to the chocolate. Mix well until you obtain a smooth cream. Let it cool slightly.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until it becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. This process, known as "creaming," is essential for incorporating air into the dough, resulting in fluffier cookies. Add the peanut butter and golden syrup, mixing well. Then, pour in the milk and mix again.

3. Adding dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking soda over the butter mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to incorporate the flour into the mixture, being careful not to overmix, as this will lead to tough cookies.

4. Forming the balls: Divide the dough into 18 equal balls. It helps to have slightly damp hands so that the dough doesn't stick. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Baking the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon. Add a teaspoon of the chocolate cream in the center of each cookie and gather the edges of the dough to seal the cream inside. Bake the cookies in two batches of 9 balls at a time for about 10-12 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden.

6. Cooling: After the cookies are baked, let them cool on a wire rack. Do not refrigerate them, as we want to maintain the soft and fluffy texture.

Serving and delicious combinations

These peanut butter cookies are delicious and simple, but you can enhance them even more! Here are some suggestions:

- Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect contrast.
- Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a savory contrast.
- You can replace the chocolate cream with a caramel sauce for a sweet and decadent option.

Nutritional benefits

These cookies are rich in protein due to the peanut butter, which provides healthy fats and fiber. Additionally, dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can contribute to a balanced diet. However, it's best to enjoy them in moderation, considering that each cookie has about 120 calories.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate, but the taste will differ. Dark chocolate provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

2. How can I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for a few days. You can freeze unbaked cookies to bake them later.

3. Can I add nuts or other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts, oats, or even dried fruits to vary the texture and flavor.

This peanut butter cookie recipe will turn any occasion into a special moment. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of these tender and characterful cookies!