If you’re a peanut butter fanatic, these Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a soft cookie with a hidden surprise: a gooey peanut butter center that melts in your mouth. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or just treating yourself, these cookies combine creamy, nutty goodness with a touch of sweetness. They’re the kind of indulgence you’ll dream about long after they’re gone.
I first made these cookies on a whim, wanting to recreate the joy of a peanut butter cup in cookie form. The first bite? Pure magic. My family was hooked, and now, these cookies are a must-have for any celebration—or just because it’s Tuesday!
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies
These cookies are everything a peanut butter lover could ask for:
- Surprise filling: A luscious peanut butter center takes these cookies to the next level.
- Soft and chewy: Perfectly textured with a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, a drizzle, or crushed peanuts for extra flair.
Ingredients Notes for Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies
Every ingredient in these Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies plays a key role in creating their decadent flavor and texture:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a soft texture.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient in both the dough and filling.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar + 1/2 cup brown sugar: A mix of sugars gives these cookies the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Provides a little lift for soft cookies.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Forms the gooey center.
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and thickens the filling for easy handling.
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate chips or drizzle: For a rich, chocolatey touch.
- Crushed peanuts: Adds a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies
To make these cookies, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls (large and small).
- Electric mixer or hand whisk.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Spatula or spoon for mixing.
- Wire rack for cooling.
How to Make Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies
1. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/3 cup powdered sugar until smooth and thick. Roll into 12 small balls (about 1–1.5 teaspoons each) and place on a parchment-lined plate. Freeze while you prepare the cookie dough.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
3. Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it into a disk, and place one frozen peanut butter ball in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the filling, rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat for all cookies.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Place the cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Add Optional Decorations
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or press chocolate chips into the tops while they’re still warm.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts for added crunch and a beautiful finish.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm: These cookies are best enjoyed while the center is gooey and warm. Pair with a cold glass of milk for ultimate indulgence.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
These Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies are wonderfully adaptable:
- Add chocolate: Mix chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an even richer flavor.
- Try a nutty twist: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Helpful Notes
- Keep the filling chilled: Freezing the peanut butter balls makes assembling the cookies much easier.
- Don’t overbake: The cookies should look slightly underdone when you take them out; they’ll set as they cool.
- Use creamy peanut butter: For the best texture, avoid natural peanut butter, which can be too runny.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Christina Tosi: “Chilling your dough before baking helps control spreading and enhances the flavor.”
- Ina Garten: “Always use room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.”
- Sally McKenney: “Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies to enhance the sweet and salty combination.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling the cookies.
Q2: Can I skip the filling?
The filling is what makes these cookies special, but you can omit it for simpler peanut butter cookies.
Q3: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Ensure your butter wasn’t too soft, and chill the dough if it feels too sticky.
Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well for larger batches.
Q5: Can I add other flavors?
Try adding a splash of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Bomb Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for peanut butter lovers, offering a soft, chewy cookie with a rich, gooey center. They’re easy to make and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for any occasion. Whip up a batch today, and watch these irresistible treats disappear!
