Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Highlighted under: Sweet Sensations
I love how effortlessly these Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies come together! Using brownie mix not only simplifies the process, but it also adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that perfectly complements the creamy peanut butter. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional cookies, and they come out soft and chewy every time. Whether I’m whipping them up for a gathering or indulging myself, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I often find myself reaching for another before I know it.
When I first attempted these cookies, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. Using a pre-made brownie mix takes away the guesswork, allowing the flavors of chocolate and peanut butter to shine through effortlessly. I've tested the recipe multiple times, and each batch has come out soft and oh-so-indulgent.
One tip that I love to share is to slightly underbake them. This ensures the cookies stay chewy in the center while still holding their shape. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in every bite is simply irresistible and makes these cookies a go-to treat in my home.
Why You Will Love These Cookies
- Deliciously soft and chewy texture
- Rich chocolate flavor combined with creamy peanut butter
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients
Understanding Ingredient Roles
Using a box of brownie mix as the base for these cookies is a game-changer. It not only speeds up the process but also ensures a dense, fudgy texture that’s hard to achieve with traditional cookie recipes. The additional creamy peanut butter adds richness and a subtle nuttiness, creating a perfect balance. While brownie mix already has sugar and cocoa, the peanut butter enhances the chocolate flavor, making each bite a decadent experience.
The egg is crucial for binding the ingredients together, allowing the cookies to hold their shape while baking. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious!
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
When baking these cookies, temperature is key. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cookies in. This ensures the cookies rise correctly and develop a soft center with lightly crispy edges. Keep an eye on the time; if you bake them too long, they will become dry. Look for the edges to appear set while the center remains slightly soft for that ideal chewy texture.
Spacing the cookies on the baking sheet is also important. They will spread a bit during baking. Aim for about 2 inches apart, ensuring that they have room to expand. If you want uniform cookie shapes, you could use a cookie scoop to help keep the size consistent, which helps with even baking and presentation.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients before you start baking:
Ingredients
- 1 box of brownie mix
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Make sure to measure carefully for the best results!
Instructions
Here's how to bake these delicious cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, peanut butter, egg, vegetable oil, and flour. Stir until thoroughly mixed and no dry ingredients remain.
Scoop and Bake
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and drop it onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious cookies!
Remember to let them cool completely for the best taste!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the dough before baking.
Storage and Freezing
These Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain their soft and chewy texture, consider adding a slice of bread to the container, which will help keep the cookies moist.
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Allow the baked cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked warmth.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top or sprinkling chopped peanuts for added crunch and visual appeal. You could also sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for a more indulgent treat!
For a twist on the flavor, feel free to mix in additional ingredients like chocolate chips, white chocolate, or even a handful of crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet combination. If you’re a fan of coconut, shredded coconut could be another addition to enhance the texture and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the cookies.
→ What can I substitute for the vegetable oil?
You can use melted coconut oil or unsalted butter as a substitute.
→ How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Just scoop it onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
I love how effortlessly these Brownie Mix Peanut Butter Cookies come together! Using brownie mix not only simplifies the process, but it also adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that perfectly complements the creamy peanut butter. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional cookies, and they come out soft and chewy every time. Whether I’m whipping them up for a gathering or indulging myself, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I often find myself reaching for another before I know it.
Created by: Ivy Richardson
Recipe Type: Sweet Sensations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 box of brownie mix
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, peanut butter, egg, vegetable oil, and flour. Stir until thoroughly mixed and no dry ingredients remain.
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and drop it onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious cookies!
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the dough before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g