Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies

Name: Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 box brownie mix; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I absolutely love these Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies! They’re an incredible blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter that’s just irresistible. When I'm pressed for time or want to whip up something quick for guests, this recipe saves the day. The use of brownie mix makes it so easy, and I love how each bite melts in your mouth. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover brownie mix I have on hand. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:00:47.436Z

When I first tried making cookies with brownie mix, I was amazed at how easy it was. The texture was incredibly soft and chewy, unlike any cookie I had ever made before. Incorporating peanut butter added a rich, nutty flavor that complemented the chocolate perfectly. I remember thinking that this recipe would become my go-to for impromptu gatherings.

One tip I've discovered along the way is to chill the cookie dough for a few minutes before baking. This helps them retain their shape and creates those iconic crinkly tops that are oh-so-appealing. Trust me, these cookies are not just a hit at home; they’ll steal the spotlight at any party!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Super easy to make with just a few ingredients
Chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more

Ingredient Breakdown

The star of these Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies is, of course, the brownie mix. It not only provides a rich chocolate flavor but also contributes to the dense, fudgy texture that complements the creaminess of the peanut butter. When selecting a brownie mix, look for one with lower sugar content if you prefer a less sweet cookie, or opt for a mix with a higher cocoa percentage for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Peanut butter adds creaminess and flavor, but it also plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients together. For a nut-free alternative, you could use SunButter or a similar sunflower seed spread. Note that using natural peanut butter with minimal additives will yield a different texture; these butters are often thinner and may affect the overall consistency of the cookie dough.

Perfecting the Texture

For the best chewy texture, be careful not to overmix the dough once you've added the eggs. Overmixing can introduce too much air, resulting in a lighter cookie rather than the desired dense and chewy bite. When shaping the cookies, rolling them into uniform balls helps ensure even baking, so consider using a small ice cream scoop with a release mechanism for consistent sizing.

When baking, keep an eye on your cookies. They should have set edges while the centers remain slightly soft and glossy. This contrast is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you prefer a crunchier cookie, bake them for an additional minute or two, but be cautious not to let them get too hard or dry.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Just be sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking. If you want to freeze some for later enjoyment, roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a resealable bag. They will maintain quality in the freezer for up to three months.

For storage, keep the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft and chewy, consider adding a slice of bread to the container; this will help maintain moisture. If you want to enjoy warm cookies later, you can quickly reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 box brownie mix
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, peanut butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until fully blended. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the Cookies

Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but feel free to elevate your dessert experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm, gooey cookies, making for a decadent treat. For added flavor, drizzle a bit of chocolate syrup or sprinkle sea salt on top just before serving.

To impress guests even further, consider sandwiching two cookies around a layer of peanut butter frosting or Nutella. This stacking not only enhances the flavor but also creates a stunning dessert presentation that's sure to wow them.

Variations to Try

While the original cookie is indulgently chocolatey, you can also experiment with mix-ins to fit your taste. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or peanuts, can add a delightful crunch. Alternatively, swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a deeper cocoa flavor or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note. These small adjustments can transform the entire cookie experience, leaving you with a new favorite variation each time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your cookies spreading too much during baking, it may be due to the temperature of your dough. Ensure that the dough is chilled before you scoop it onto the baking sheet, or try adding another tablespoon of flour to help firm it up. Similarly, if the cookies are too dry, reducing baking time slightly will allow for a softer texture.

Another common issue is cookies that are too sticky to handle. This can happen if your peanut butter is too oily or not fully mixed with the brownie mix. In this case, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping will make it more manageable and improve the baking results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter also work great in this recipe.

→ How can I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped cookie dough and bake them straight from the freezer, just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.