Introduction to Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, big fat peanut butter cookies stand tall among the favorites—warm, gooey, and absolutely satisfying. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a nostalgic trip down memory lane, evoking visions of cozy kitchens and the joyful anticipation of baked goodies fresh from the oven.
So, why exactly are big fat peanut butter cookies the ultimate comfort food? It all starts with that creamy, delectable peanut butter flavor that hits all the right notes. When combined with chocolate chips and oats, the rich, nutty taste becomes even more indulgent. Plus, the texture is a heavenly balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, perfect for dunking into a glass of cold milk or enjoying with a hot cup of coffee.
According to a study from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, comfort foods often provide a sense of security and nostalgia, which could explain why many of us turn to beloved recipes like this one during stressful times. Whether you’re celebrating a small win or simply need a pick-me-up, these cookies are always a welcome companion. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie
Creating the ultimate big fat peanut butter cookies starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you'll need to whip up these delicious treats:
- All-purpose flour: 1 and ½ cups (188g) – This is the base of your cookie dough, providing structure.
- Baking powder & baking soda: 1 teaspoon each – These leavening agents are key for achieving that fluffy texture.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – It enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g), softened – The star fat, adding richness and moisture.
- Granulated and brown sugar: 1 cup of granulated (200g) and ½ cup (100g) of brown sugar – Together they create sweetness while the brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like depth.
- Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature – They act as a binder, adding moisture and richness.
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup (240g) – This ingredient is a game changer, giving your cookies that signature nutty flavor.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons – A hint of vanilla rounds out the taste beautifully.
- Old-fashioned oats: 2 cups (170g) – These give texture and a hearty bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 2 and ½ cups (450g) – Because no cookie is complete without chocolate!
Each ingredient plays its part in creating soft, chewy, and oh-so-delicious big fat peanut butter cookies. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!
Preparing Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Baking big fat peanut butter cookies is not just a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth; it's a chance to create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere in your kitchen. This recipe merges the creamy richness of peanut butter with wholesome oats and sweet chocolate chips, making these cookies perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create your masterpiece!
Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
Before you get your hands doughy, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients and measure them accurately. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 and ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable. Plus, it prevents any last-minute ingredient scrambles!
Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start your cookie journey by whisking together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures that your big fat peanut butter cookies will have an even rise and texture. By combining the dry ingredients first, you create a well-blended base that will mix beautifully with the wet ingredients later.
Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat softened butter until smooth. Then, add the granulated and brown sugars. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This aeration process is crucial because it will give your cookies a delicious texture!
Add Eggs, Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Extract
Next, it’s time to mix in the eggs, peanut butter, and pure vanilla extract. Beat everything together until combined. Don't forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. The goal here is to achieve a velvety mix brimming with rich flavors.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to combine everything. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This step prevents any messy explosions of flour. Once they’re mixed, you’ll have a thick and sticky dough—absolutely irresistible!
Incorporate Oats and Chocolate Chips
Fold in the old-fashioned oats and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! The oats not only add texture but also provide a wholesome element to your big fat peanut butter cookies. Be generous with the chocolate chips because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a cookie that’s bursting with chocolate?
Chill the Dough for a Better Texture
Cover your bowl of cookie dough and pop it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 days). Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and enhances the cookie's texture, ensuring every bite is chewily perfection. If you chill for more than an hour, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
Prepare Baking Sheets and Preheat the Oven
While your cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Scoop and Space the Dough on Baking Sheets
Once the dough has chilled, use a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons worth) to scoop balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. They’ll spread during baking, and you want to give them room to grow!
Bake and Cool the Cookies
Pop the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. The centers will still look soft, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up while cooling. After you remove them from the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to enhance the presentation, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops while they’re still warm.
With these comprehensive steps, you're well on your way to baking deliciously big fat peanut butter cookies that will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home, and of course, don’t forget to save some for yourself!
Variations on Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Add-ins for a Creative Twist
Looking to jazz up your big fat peanut butter cookies? Consider these delicious add-ins:
- Nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans add an irresistible crunch.
- Dried Fruits – Try raisins or cranberries for a hint of sweetness and chewier texture.
- Spices – A dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
- Chocolate Varieties – Mix in white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a gourmet touch.
Alternate Versions for Different Dietary Needs
You can enjoy these cookies regardless of your dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs and a dairy-free butter substitute to make them plant-based.
- Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a safe, nut-free option.
With these variations, your big fat peanut butter cookies will cater to everyone! Want more tips? Check out resources like Serious Eats for inspiration on baking adaptations.
Baking Notes for Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Creating the perfect big fat peanut butter cookies begins with avoiding a few common pitfalls:
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Using the Wrong Peanut Butter: Stick with creamy, non-natural peanut butter. Varieties like Jif or Skippy yield the best texture. Natural styles can make them sandy and crumbly.
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Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling process! Allowing the dough to chill for at least 20 minutes ensures thicker cookies that hold their shape during baking. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute chill can still work wonders.
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Baking Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) for consistent baking. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them—lighter edges and soft centers are ideal!
For further baking tips, check out this detailed guide on baking techniques. Enjoy crafting your delicious cookies!
Serving suggestions for Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Perfect pairings for your cookies
When enjoying your big fat peanut butter cookies, consider delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavor. Here are some suggestions:
- Milk: A classic choice! The creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the cookies' warm, chewy interior.
- Coffee: Pair your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
- Ice Cream: Sandwich your cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas provide a refreshing balance to the cookies' sweetness.
Experiment with these pairings to discover your perfect match! If you’d like more inspiration, check out these pairing ideas from Food & Wine for sweet delights!
Tricks from Seasoned Bakers
When it comes to baking big fat peanut butter cookies, a few tried-and-true tips can make all the difference!
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with room temperature butter and eggs to create a smooth and creamy dough. This ensures that all ingredients blend seamlessly, giving you that perfect texture.
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Chill the Dough: Patience pays off! Chilling the dough for at least 20 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in thicker cookies that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid dense cookies by spooning flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly. For an expert guide on measuring, check out this helpful resource.
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Mix in Chocolate Chips Last: Stir the chips in by hand after mixing in the oats. This avoids overmixing and helps keep your cookies soft and chunky with a delicious chocolatey bite.
Following these tips will surely lead you to big fat peanut butter cookies that everyone will rave about! Happy baking!
Time Details for Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
When you're ready to whip up a batch of those big fat peanut butter cookies, it's essential to know how much time you'll need. Here's a breakdown:
Preparation Time
Expect to spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing the dough. It's quick and enjoyable—perfect for a cozy afternoon in your kitchen.
Baking Time
Once your dough is ready and it's time to bake, allow an additional 12-14 minutes in the oven. This is when that mouthwatering aroma will start to fill your home, making it hard to resist!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes (15 minutes for prep + 12-14 minutes for baking). If you choose to chill the dough, just add an extra 20 minutes or more, depending on how long you decide to let it rest.
These cookies are worth every minute, delivering a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. For tips on storing or freezing your big fat peanut butter cookies, check out more resources on my blog!
Nutritional Information for Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
When you're enjoying a delightful bite of big fat peanut butter cookies, it's good to know what you're treating yourself to. Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content:
Calories
Each cookie offers about 250 calories, making it a hearty indulgence for your sweet cravings.
Protein
These cookies are packed with protein, boasting around 6 grams per cookie. The peanut butter and oats contribute to this satisfying boost.
Sugar Content
With approximately 18 grams of sugar in each cookie, it's a sweet treat that's perfect for sharing or savoring on your own.
Want more details on the nutrition of peanut butter? Check out this informative article on peanut butter's health benefits. Enjoy your baking!
FAQs about Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
While it might be tempting to reach for that natural peanut butter, it's best to stick with a traditional creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for these big fat peanut butter cookies. Natural versions can lead to a crumbly texture that takes away from that perfect chewy bite we all love.
How do I store my cookies for maximum freshness?
To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay delicious for up to a week. If you want an extra tip, adding a slice of bread to the container will help maintain their moisture!
Can I freeze cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to three months. Just scoop them onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready for fresh cookies, bake them straight from the freezer, just adding an extra minute or so to the baking time. Get all the details on freezing cookie dough here.
Conclusion on Big Fat Peanut Butter Cookies
These big fat peanut butter cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for snacking or dessert. The combination of rich chocolate chips and hearty oats makes every bite satisfying. Enjoy making, sharing, and indulging in these cookies that are sure to impress friends and family alike! For more baking inspiration, check out this cookie baking tools guide.
Big Fat Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- hand mixer
- Stand Mixer
- paddle attachment
- baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup light or dark brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats
- 2.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips plus more for topping if desired
Instructions
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until smooth, about 1 minute. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar and beat on medium-high speed until creamed, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla and beat on high speed until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. With the mixer running on low speed, add the oats. Once combined, beat in the chocolate chips. Dough will be thick and sticky. Cover and chill the dough for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator (and up to 4 days). If chilling for longer than 1 hour, allow to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before rolling and baking because the dough will be quite hard.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
- Scoop balls of dough, 2 Tablespoons of dough per cookie, and arrange 3 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 12-14 minutes until lightly browned on the sides. The centers will look very soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cookies are still warm, press a few more chocolate chips into the tops for decoration.
- Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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