The Best Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe by Alton Brown
If you’re a fan of chewy peanut butter cookies, then you’re in for a treat with Alton Brown’s recipe. These cookies are packed with peanut butter flavor and have that perfect soft and chewy texture that will keep you coming back for more. Follow these simple steps to make the best chewy peanut butter cookies that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan and ensure easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a sturdy spoon. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down on each cookie with a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on top.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly undercooked, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, these chewy peanut butter cookies are ready to enjoy. They pair perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, if they last that long.
Alton Brown’s chewy peanut butter cookies are a delicious treat that will satisfy any peanut butter lover. The combination of creamy peanut butter, buttery richness, and chewy texture makes for an irresistible cookie. Give this recipe a try and discover the joy of homemade, chewy peanut butter cookies.
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Are you craving a batch of delicious, chewy peanut butter cookies? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for making the perfect chewy peanut butter cookies, inspired by the renowned chef Alton Brown. So let’s get started and create some mouthwatering treats!
1. Use High-Quality Peanut Butter: The key to achieving a delectable peanut flavor in your cookies lies in using high-quality peanut butter. Opt for natural peanut butter without any added sugars or oils. The richness of the peanuts will shine through, resulting in a more intense and authentic flavor.
2. Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are crucial for achieving the desired texture. Use measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the ingredients, including flour, sugar, and peanut butter. This will ensure that your cookies turn out chewy and perfectly balanced.
3. Incorporate Brown Sugar: For extra chewiness, swap a portion of the granulated sugar with brown sugar. Brown sugar contains more moisture, which contributes to the softness and chewiness of the cookies. The combination of brown and granulated sugar will create a delightful caramelized flavor.
4. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the cookie dough, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture as the gluten proteins in the flour develop. Mix the dough just until the ingredients are evenly combined, ensuring a tender and chewy cookie.
5. Chill the Dough: After you’ve prepared the dough, chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes is essential. Chilling the dough helps the fats solidify, resulting in less spread during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of the cookies.
6. Use Parchment Paper: To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, line it with parchment paper. This also promotes even baking and ensures the cookies maintain their shape. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze!
7. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is a common mistake when it comes to cookies. To achieve the perfect chewy texture, make sure to remove the cookies from the oven while they still appear slightly underdone. They will firm up as they cool, resulting in a tender and chewy center.
8. Add a Pinch of Salt: Salt is a flavor enhancer and can bring out the richness of the peanut butter. Add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance the sweetness and intensify the overall taste.
9. Experiment with Add-Ins: While classic chewy peanut butter cookies are delightful on their own, feel free to experiment with add-ins to take them to the next level. Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even shredded coconut can add extra texture and flavor to your cookies.
Now that you have these tips and tricks up your sleeve, it’s time to whip up a batch of chewy peanut butter cookies that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy the delicious combination of rich peanut butter flavor and a perfect chewy texture that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Conclusion
Alton Brown’s recipe for the best chewy peanut butter cookies is a foolproof way to satisfy your cookie cravings. The combination of creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and a touch of honey creates a chewy and delicious treat that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. By following a few tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cookies turn out perfect every time.
Start by using the right type of peanut butter. Creamy varieties work best for this recipe as the smooth texture creates a more tender and chewy cookie. Be sure to use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor.
Measuring the ingredients accurately is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or level off your measuring cups to ensure precise amounts of flour, sugar, and peanut butter. Too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the texture and taste of the final product.
Chilling the dough before baking is a critical step in this recipe. Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (and up to 24 hours) helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This ensures that they maintain their chewy texture and hold their shape.
Properly preheating your oven is essential for even baking. Make sure to preheat your oven to the specified temperature in the recipe before placing the cookie dough inside. This helps to set the structure of the cookie quickly, resulting in a chewy center and slightly crisp edges.
When it comes to shaping the cookies, use a cookie scoop or roll the dough into uniform balls to ensure even baking. Placing the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps prevent sticking and allows for easy cleanup.
Avoid overbaking the cookies, as this can result in a dry and crumbly texture. Keep a close eye on them as they bake and remove them from the oven when they are just set around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
Once the cookies have cooled slightly on the baking sheet, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to continue firming up while maintaining their chewiness.
So, the next time you find yourself craving a batch of chewy peanut butter cookies, look no further than Alton Brown’s recipe. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or simply savor them on their own, these chewy peanut butter cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.