Soft and Crinkly Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked cookie, especially when it’s a batch of Soft and Crinkly Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies. These cookies are a delightful blend of rich peanut butter flavor and the deep sweetness of brown sugar, resulting in a soft, chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and drizzled with melted chocolate, they’re an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to achieving that perfect softness and crinkle in your cookies lies in the balance of ingredients and the method of preparation. The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup keeps the cookies moist while adding depth of flavor. Creamy peanut butter contributes to the soft texture, and the use of baking soda helps them rise just enough to form those delightful crinkles. This recipe ensures that every bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making it a go-to for cookie lovers.

Ingredient List

• 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup dark or light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup real maple syrup
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 8-12 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate, melted
• 1/4 cup cane sugar, for rolling (optional)
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in the flour.
• Baking sheet: To bake your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: For easy clean-up and preventing sticking.
• Cooling rack: To let your cookies cool down properly.

Soft and Crinkly Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies.: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect crinkly texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Using a whisk, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Egg

Next, add the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue to whisk until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

For best results, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. If using, place the cane sugar in a shallow dish. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them into balls. If you’re using cane sugar, roll each ball in the sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkly. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake!

Step 8: Add Chocolate and Sea Salt

While the cookies are still warm, drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an added touch of flavor. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Use vegan butter in place of salted butter for a dairy-free version.
• Substitute almond or oat flour for all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Opt for a dairy-free chocolate for drizzling.

Cook’s Notes

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for texture; don’t skip this step!
• Feel free to adjust the amount of chocolate used based on your preference.
• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Soft and Crinkly Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the dough. Simply shape the cookie dough balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to three months. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra texture to your cookies, making them even more delightful to bite into.

Why are my cookies flat?

If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Make sure to chill the dough adequately and measure your flour correctly.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

Honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives to maple syrup, but keep in mind that they may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can be folded into the dough for added flavor and texture.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe for Soft and Crinkly Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s time to get baking! These cookies are not just a delicious treat; they are an experience of comfort and joy. With every bite, you’ll savor the rich flavors and the delightful texture that come together so perfectly. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and soon enough, you’ll have a plate full of cookies ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Happy baking!