Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat with these easy-to-make peanut butter cookies! Combining the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the richness of butter and a touch of sweetness from yellow cake mix, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, this simple recipe yields delicious results that are bound to impress family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
Granulated sugar, for rolling
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
With these simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be on your way to enjoying warm and chewy peanut butter cookies in no time! Perfect for any occasion or just a sweet treat at home. Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, large eggs, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix the ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix
Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly after each addition. As the dough thickens, you may need to use your hands to incorporate the final portion of the cake mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Prepare Sugar
Place granulated sugar in a small bowl for rolling the cookie dough balls.
Step 5: Form Dough Balls
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Once shaped, roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat them evenly.
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 7: Create Crisscross Pattern
Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern on top. This helps to flatten the balls slightly and gives them a classic cookie appearance.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Cookie Consistency
The dough will be thick, similar to that of brownie batter. If it becomes too stiff, using your hands is a good way to finish mixing.
Storage Tips
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies.
Variations
Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor, if desired.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even baking temperature for your cookies.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine wet ingredients in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients to prevent clumping, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Cookie Dough Consistency
The dough should be thick and pliable. If it’s too hard to mix with a spoon, you can use your hands to incorporate the ingredients.
Rolling Dough Balls
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into uniform balls to ensure even baking.
Coating with Sugar
Rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar adds sweetness and creates a crunchy texture on the surface.
Spacing on Baking Sheet
Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie dough ball on the baking sheet to allow for spreading as they bake.
Creating a Crisscross Pattern
Press down each dough ball lightly with a fork to create a crisscross design, which helps with even baking and provides a classic cookie appearance.
Baking Time
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
Cooling Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling. This prevents breaking.
FAQ
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, but natural peanut butter may alter the texture and consistency of the dough, leading to a different final result.
What can I substitute for unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe. Alternatively, coconut oil or margarine can also work.
Is it necessary to use vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract is optional but adds a depth of flavor to the cookies. You can omit it if desired.
Can I chill the cookie dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and result in thicker cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should have lightly golden edges and appear set in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, adding chocolate chips can enhance flavor, but be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
These peanut butter cookies made with yellow cake mix are a delightful and effortless treat. The combination of creamy peanut butter and soft butter creates a rich texture, while the cake mix ensures a quick and easy preparation. Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven or share them with friends and family for a sweet indulgence any time.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cookies
Add chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist. Swirl in some melted chocolate to create a marbled effect for a gourmet look.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for added texture and chewiness. You can also mix in raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
Coconut-Peanut Butter Cookies
Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor. This pairing adds a unique sweetness and chewy consistency to the cookies.
Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies
Include chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips to the cookie dough to add depth and crunch.
Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cookies
Blend in pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal twist, resulting in a soft, cake-like cookie perfect for fall.
