Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Cookies for Cookie Exchange

What kind of recipe is it?

Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines two beloved flavors into rich, chewy cookies.

With a perfect balance of sweet and savory, these cookies boast a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by chunks of chocolate and creamy peanut butter.

Ideal for family gatherings or festive gatherings, this recipe appeals to cookie lovers and peanut butter enthusiasts alike.

Baking these cookies not only spreads joy but also adds a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, making them a must-try for everyone.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	1 cup, packed
Unsweetened cocoa powder	1/2 cup
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
Peanut butter	1 cup, creamy
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1 cup
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)	as needed

This table outlines all the essential ingredients along with their specific quantities to prepare Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Cookies.

Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and set the oven rack to the middle position. Allow the oven to preheat fully to guarantee even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, 220 g (1 cup, packed) brown sugar, 50 g (1/2 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder, 5 g (1 teaspoon) baking soda, and 3 g (1/2 teaspoon) salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly blended.
In a separate bowl, cream together 115 g (1/2 cup) softened unsalted butter and 250 g (1 cup) creamy peanut butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and pale, about 2–3 minutes, guaranteeing light and fluffy texture.
Add 2 large eggs and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract to the butter-peanut butter mixture. Beat the mixture on medium speed until well incorporated, about 1–2 minutes.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
Fold in 170 g (1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Line two baking sheets (approximately 40 cm x 30 cm) with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. Alternatively, lightly grease the sheets with butter or cooking spray.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough (about 30 g each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. The cookies should appear soft but not doughy; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, about 15–20 minutes.
If desired, dust with powdered sugar once cooled for a festive touch. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Variations

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: Substitute 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies: Replace 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water) instead of eggs, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.

Holiday Spice Cookies: Add 5 g (1 teaspoon) cinnamon and 2 g (1/2 teaspoon) ground nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm seasonal flavor twist.
Protein-Packed Cookies: Mix in 50 g (1/2 cup) protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor) with the dry ingredients for an extra protein boost, while reducing the flour to 190 g (1 ½ cups).

Tips on plating and presentation

When it comes to making cookies look as delightful as they taste, presentation is key. I love using a colorful platter to showcase my chocolate peanut butter Christmas cookies.

Layering them in a spiral or stacking them high can create visual interest. To add a festive touch, I sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or drizzle melted chocolate over them.

Don’t forget to include seasonal decorations, like holly or small ornaments, around the cookies for that holiday feel.

Using parchment paper or festive doilies underneath not only enhances the look but also protects your serving dish.

Lastly, I always keep a few cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons for a perfect take-home treat.

Happy baking!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

While chocolate peanut butter Christmas cookies steal the show, pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your holiday spread.

I love serving them alongside a rich chocolate fudge or a simple almond flour cookie for a delightful contrast. Brownies, especially if they’re studded with nuts, also create a lovely textural balance.

For a savory element, consider placing a cheese platter nearby, featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie. Roasted nuts add a festive crunch that enhances the overall experience.

Don’t forget about fruits; fresh strawberries or slices of apple provide an invigorating palate cleanser.

What drinks can I pair it with?

To really enhance the enjoyment of my chocolate peanut butter Christmas cookies, I love pairing them with the right drinks. A classic glass of cold milk is always a winner; the creaminess complements the rich flavors perfectly.

If I’m feeling adventurous, I might opt for a creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream—a real treat during the holidays! For something a bit different, I’ll reach for a coffee, especially a mocha; the coffee’s bitterness balances the sweetness beautifully.

And on festive occasions, a light dessert wine can elevate the experience, bringing an elegant touch.

Whether it’s sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these drink pairings make my cookie experience even more delightful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh After Baking?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I’ve found that keeping them away from direct sunlight helps maintain their flavor and texture longer.

Can I Freeze These Cookies for Later Use?

Yes, I can freeze these cookies for later use. I’ve done it successfully myself. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll stay fresh for about three months. Just thaw before enjoying!

Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?

I’ve tried gluten-free flour blends in my cookie recipes, and they work wonderfully. Just make sure to check that they’re a 1:1 substitute for regular flour. You won’t miss the gluten at all!

I usually store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If I’m worried about freshness, I’ll layer them with parchment paper. Freezing them works too; just let them thaw before serving.

What Is the Best Way to Package Cookies for Gifting?

I usually package cookies in decorative boxes or tins, layering them between parchment paper. I add a personal touch with ribbons or handwritten tags, making them feel special and thoughtful for the recipient.