What kind of recipe is it?
Christmas Cookies with Peanut Butter are a delightful and festive treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the traditional sweetness of holiday cookies.
These cookies are characterized by their soft, chewy texture and irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen during the baking process. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a gift, they appeal to both peanut butter lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth.
They’re an excellent choice for families, bringing joy to both children and adults alike during the festive season.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup, packed |
| Unsweetened peanut butter | 1 cup |
| Butter | ½ cup (1 stick), softened |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Chocolate chips (optional) | 1 cup |
| Sprinkles (optional) | For garnish |
These ingredients come together to create delicious and festive peanut butter cookies that are perfect for the holiday season.
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
2. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 teaspoon) of baking soda, and 2.5 g (½ teaspoon) of salt; whisk together until well mixed.
4. In another large bowl, beat together 240 g (1 cup) of granulated sugar, 220 g (1 cup, packed) of brown sugar, and 120 g (½ cup or 1 stick) of softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and light, approximately 2-3 minutes.
5. Add 250 g (1 cup) of unsweetened peanut butter and continue beating on medium speed for an additional 1-2 minutes until thoroughly incorporated and fluffy.
6. Incorporate 1 large egg and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract into the mixture, beating until well blended.
7. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
If desired, fold in 170 g (1 cup) of chocolate chips at this stage.
8. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls (about 25 g each); place them on the prepared baking sheets approximately 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
9. Gently press down on each dough ball using a fork to create a crisscross pattern, slightly flattening the cookies.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set but soft.
11. Remove the baking sheets from the oven, allowing the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes, and then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, if using, sprinkle cookies with festive sprinkles for decoration before serving or storing.
13. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer preservation.
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Cookies: After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted dark or milk chocolate and let cool for a decadent finish.
- Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with 240 g (2 cups) of gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies: Substitute the egg with 60 ml (¼ cup) of unsweetened applesauce and use a dairy-free butter alternative to make these cookies completely vegan.
- Maple Pecan Peanut Butter Cookies: Add 120 ml (½ cup) of maple syrup and 100 g (1 cup) of chopped pecans to the dough for a nutty, seasonal twist.
Tips on plating and presentation
After exploring delightful variations of peanut butter cookies, you might be wondering how to make your creations look as good as they taste.
I love to start by selecting a beautiful platter; a simple white one really helps the cookies pop. For an added touch, I often layer them with festive parchment paper or a red and green cloth.
When arranging, I cluster cookies in odd numbers for a more relaxed vibe. To elevate presentation, I sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can also add color and freshness.
Finally, don’t forget to place a few cookies in a cute, decorated box for gifting—it’s the perfect finishing touch!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Peanut butter cookies can be a delightful centerpiece, but pairing them with the right dishes can elevate your entire holiday spread.
I love to serve them alongside a selection of assorted nuts and dried fruits. The saltiness of the nuts and the sweetness of the fruits complement the rich flavor of the cookies perfectly.
You might also consider adding a warm chocolate fondue or a fruit compote; the gooey texture makes a lovely contrast.
For a savory option, some cheese platters with sharp cheddar or creamy brie work surprisingly well.
If you want something fresh, a vibrant green salad with citrus dressing can balance the sweetness beautifully.
The key is to create variety while enhancing, rather than overpowering, those delicious peanut butter cookies.
What drinks can I pair it with?
When entertaining during the holidays, the right drinks can truly enhance the experience of enjoying peanut butter cookies.
I love pairing my cookies with a rich glass of milk; it brings out the creamy texture and flavor of the peanut butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a hot chocolate spiked with a hint of cinnamon—it pairs beautifully with the cookies and adds a festive touch.
For those who prefer something a bit stronger, a classic bourbon or whiskey can balance the sweetness nicely. Additionally, a light and fruity wine, like a Riesling, can also complement the cookies’ nutty flavors.
Whatever you choose, these beverages will elevate your holiday cookie experience to a new level!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Creamy Instead of Chunky Peanut Butter?
Absolutely, you can use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. I’ve tried both, and while chunky adds a nice texture, creamy works perfectly for a smooth, rich flavor in recipes. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy it!
How Long Do Peanut Butter Cookies Stay Fresh?
Peanut butter cookies usually stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. If I freeze them, they can last up to three months, perfect for enjoying later!
Can I Freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Dough?
Absolutely, you can freeze peanut butter cookie dough! I often prepare extra dough, scoop it into balls, and store them in a freezer bag. It’s a convenient way to enjoy fresh cookies later.
Are There Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
Yes, there are nut-free alternatives! I often use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. Both options work great in recipes, giving a similar taste and texture without the worry of nuts. Enjoy baking!
What Can I Do if My Cookies Turn Out Dry?
If my cookies turn out dry, I’d add a tablespoon of milk or melted butter to the dough. I’d also make certain I don’t overbake them; keeping an eye on cooking times really helps!
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