Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. These Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With the rich flavor of creamy peanut butter harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate chips and the wholesome texture from rolled oats, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or sharing them with friends, each bite is a reminder of the simple joys in life.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is tried and true, delivering consistently delicious results. It combines classic ingredients that work perfectly together, ensuring a delightful flavor and texture in every batch. The combination of peanut butter and oats offers a unique twist on traditional cookies, providing a satisfying chewiness that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any special techniques or equipment, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create these scrumptious cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour: This provides structure and a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup (135g) creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that brings flavor and creaminess.
- ½ cup (99g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning.
- ½ cup (71g) light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 cup (45g) rolled oats: Provides texture and a wholesome element.
- 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips: For that indulgent chocolatey goodness.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you dive into baking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Electric mixer (or whisk): To cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Baking sheets: A flat surface for baking your cookies.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cookie scoop (optional): For uniform cookie sizes.
- Cooling rack: To allow cookies to cool evenly.
Make Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Simple Method
Ready to bake up a batch of these delightful cookies? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Fold in Oats and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the rolled oats and semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 8: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Smart Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your cookies or accommodate dietary needs, consider these substitutions:
- Nut butters: Swap out creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Flours: Use whole wheat flour for added nutrition or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Sugar alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
- Egg replacement: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
If You’re Curious
These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide some added nutrition from the oats and peanut butter. Here are a few fun facts:
- Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, peanut butter is not just delicious but also a source of energy.
- Oats: Rolled oats are a great source of dietary fiber, promoting heart health and digestive wellness.
- Chocolate: The semisweet chocolate chips add indulgence and joy—plus, dark chocolate has its own health benefits when enjoyed in moderation!
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re planning to bake ahead of time, here’s how you can store your Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies:
You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. For longer storage, scoop the dough into balls and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
For baked cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter can be runnier or thicker than regular creamy peanut butter, so adjust the flour if necessary to achieve the right dough consistency.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Your cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, to your cookie dough for added flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the dough.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to softened butter or too much sugar. Ensure your butter is at room temperature but not overly soft, and double-check your measurements. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can also help reduce spreading.
Bring It Home
These Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a comforting embrace in cookie form. Ideal for sharing, these cookies bring friends and family together, creating moments filled with laughter and joy. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as a sweet snack during the day, they’re sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake up some love with this delightful cookie recipe. It’s time to make your kitchen smell amazing and your heart a little fuller with these delicious Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Peanut Butter-Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the rolled oats and semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour.
- Freezing the dough balls can make baking easier later on.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading.
