Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 24 miniature peanut butter cups, unwrapped

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe Pin it

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

I have to admit—I’m a little obsessed with these peanut butter cup cookies. There’s something about the way the soft, chewy peanut butter cookie hugs a melty chocolate cup that just hits different. I first made them during a rainy weekend when I was craving comfort in baked form, and honestly? They’ve become my go-to for everything—from potlucks to late-night cravings. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to whip up, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. Just 10 ingredients, one bowl, and about 20 minutes of your time. If you’ve ever loved a Reese’s cup (and who hasn’t?), these cookies are your next must-try treat.

What Is Peanut Butter Cup Cookies?

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are exactly what they sound like—soft, tender peanut butter cookies baked around a miniature peanut butter cup center. Think of your favorite childhood candy, but wrapped in a homemade cookie hug. These aren’t just store-bought copycats; they’re richer, more fragrant, and have that perfect balance of salty peanut butter and sweet milk chocolate. The cookie dough is lightly sweetened and packed with roasted peanut flavor, while the chocolate cup melts just enough in the oven to create a gooey, decadent surprise in every bite. They’re the kind of cookie that disappears fast at parties—and honestly, I’ve been known to hide a few for myself right after pulling them out of the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, these cookies are ridiculously easy. No fancy techniques, no chilling required—just mix, scoop, press in a candy, and bake. But beyond simplicity, they deliver on flavor in a big way. The peanut butter cookie base is made with real peanut butter (not the oily kind!), brown sugar for moisture, and a touch of vanilla that ties everything together. And that moment when you break one open and see the chocolate ooze slightly? Pure magic. Plus, they’re naturally egg-free if you use a flax egg—so they work for more dietary needs than your average cookie. Whether you’re baking with kids, bringing dessert to a friend, or just treating yourself after a long day, these cookies feel indulgent without being fussy. And let’s be real: who can resist a cookie that tastes like a peanut butter cup?

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Quick Overview

These cookies come together in under 30 minutes total. You’ll mix a simple peanut butter cookie dough, scoop it into muffin tins (or shape by hand), press in a mini peanut butter cup, and bake until golden. The result? Soft, slightly crisp-edged cookies with a molten chocolate center. It’s foolproof, fast, and totally satisfying.

Ingredients

You’ll need: ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular), ⅓ cup granulated sugar, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water), 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ cup powdered sugar (for rolling), and 24 miniature peanut butter cups (unwrapped!).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line with silicone cups—this helps the cookies hold their shape and makes removal way easier.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flax egg and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Add peanut butter, both sugars, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Then fold in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. The dough will be thick but soft.

Step 3: Shape & Fill

Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each in powdered sugar. Place one ball into each muffin cup and gently press down to form a little well. Unwrap a mini peanut butter cup and press it firmly into the center of each dough mound.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

What to Serve It With

These cookies shine on their own, but if you’re feeling fancy, pair them with a cold glass of milk (or oat milk for a dairy-free twist). They’re also amazing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a mini dessert skillet moment. For parties, I like to serve them alongside other classics like chocolate chip cookies or brownies—they always steal the show.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Use creamy peanut butter—not crunchy—for the best texture. If your dough feels too sticky, chill it for 10 minutes. Don’t skip the powdered sugar roll—it gives them that classic crinkled look and a hint of sweetness. And most importantly: unwrap those peanut butter cups while the dough is resting so you’re ready to go!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (baked and unfilled) for up to 3 months—just thaw and add the peanut butter cup before serving. To reheat, pop one in the microwave for 8–10 seconds for that fresh-baked gooeyness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular-sized peanut butter cups?

Technically yes, but you’d need to halve or quarter them—and mini cups fit perfectly in the cookie wells without overflowing.

Do I have to use a muffin tin?

Not necessarily! You can bake them on a lined baking sheet, but they may spread more and lose their cute cup shape.

Can I make these nut-free?

Unfortunately, no—peanut butter is essential here. But you could try sunflower seed butter and sunflower seed “cups” for a similar vibe (though the flavor will differ).

Final Thoughts

These peanut butter cup cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a little moment of joy. Whether you’re baking them for someone you love or just because you deserve something sweet, they never fail to deliver. I hope you give them a try, and if you do, let me know how they turn out. (And maybe save one for me!)

No ratings yet