Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen
I love how easy it is to whip up a batch of Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies, and the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The rich, chocolatey goodness from the brownie mix pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty peanut butter. This recipe is not only a time-saver but also guarantees a crowd-pleaser. We often make these cookies when we're having friends over or when we're in the mood for a delightful treat. Plus, they're perfectly chewy and so enjoyable with a glass of milk!
When I first decided to create these Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies, I wanted a treat that was both simple and satisfying. Using a brownie mix as the base adds rich flavors without requiring too many ingredients or steps. To really enhance the peanut butter flavor, I add a dollop on top of each cookie before baking. This not only makes them look delightful but also gives a lovely surprise in every bite.
One tip I’ve learned is to chill the dough for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better and gives them a chewy texture that is just perfect. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your home!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by creamy peanut butter
- Super easy to make with just a few ingredients
- Perfectly chewy and incredibly satisfying
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of brownie mix and peanut butter creates a deliciously rich cookie that is both sweet and nutty. The brownie mix provides a deep chocolate flavor, while the creamy peanut butter adds a minor saltiness that elevates the overall taste. This unique blend makes these cookies stand out from typical peanut butter cookies, offering a delightful surprise for your palate with each bite.
Using the right peanut butter is essential for achieving the best texture. Creamy peanut butter helps bind the ingredients together and provides a smooth consistency. If you prefer a crunchier cookie, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead. Just remember that the overall texture may vary slightly, resulting in a more textured bite, which some may find appealing.
Tips for Cookie Perfection
Chilling the dough for about 15 minutes helps improve the shaping of the cookies. This step reduces spreading during baking, allowing the cookies to maintain a perfect round shape. If you find that your dough is particularly sticky, lightly flour your hands or your scooping tool to help with portioning without leaving too much mess.
When baking these cookies, keep an eye on the edges. Ideally, they should be set while the centers remain slightly soft. This will allow the cookies to maintain their chewy texture as they cool. If you're unsure, removing them from the oven just as the edges appear firm will prevent over-baking, which can lead to a drier cookie.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (18.4 oz)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter for topping
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, peanut butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add Chocolate Chips
If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this stage.
Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes for better shaping.
Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop, place dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Add a small dollop of peanut butter on top of each cookie.
Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies warm or store them in an airtight container.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These cookies store beautifully! Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for about three months, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.
If you want to enjoy fresh cookies at a moment’s notice, you can also freeze the unbaked dough balls. After portioning the dough onto the baking sheet, freeze them, then store the frozen dough balls in a container. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; you can just pop them into the oven. Increase the baking time by a couple of minutes and watch closely until they reach that perfect doneness.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative by adding different mix-ins to your cookies. Nuts, dried fruits, or even crushed pretzels can add an interesting texture and flavor boost. For example, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookies. You might also enjoy stirring in a tablespoon of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
For a fun twist, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over the top of the cookies once they cool. This adds an additional layer of sweetness and visual appeal that makes these cookies even more tempting. Experimenting with these variations allows you to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or the seasons.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be aware that natural peanut butter can be runnier, which may alter the texture of the cookies slightly.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free brownie mix and follow the rest of the recipe as is.
→ What can I add to enhance the texture?
Feel free to add nuts or crushed pretzels for added crunch.
Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
I love how easy it is to whip up a batch of Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies, and the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The rich, chocolatey goodness from the brownie mix pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty peanut butter. This recipe is not only a time-saver but also guarantees a crowd-pleaser. We often make these cookies when we're having friends over or when we're in the mood for a delightful treat. Plus, they're perfectly chewy and so enjoyable with a glass of milk!
Created by: Madison Cole
Recipe Type: Clean Eating Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (18.4 oz)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter for topping
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, peanut butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this stage.
Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes for better shaping.
Using a cookie scoop, place dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Add a small dollop of peanut butter on top of each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g