Peanut Butter Cookie Cups: Bites of Peanut Butter Heaven for All Occasions

Peanut Butter Cookie Cups: A Delightful Treat for Peanut Butter Lovers

Peanut butter cookie cups are a delectable dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and cookie dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack. Here's a detailed guide on how to make delicious peanut butter cookie cups:

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough Cups:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

* 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 large egg yolk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

To Make the Cookie Dough Cups:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and press into the prepared muffin cups.

To Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.

To Assemble the Cookie Cups:

1. Spoon the peanut butter filling into the prepared cookie cups, leaving about 1/4 inch of space from the top.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie cups are golden brown and the filling is set.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

* For a richer flavor, use a natural or dark chocolate peanut butter.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth.
* Top with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for extra indulgence.

Peanut butter cookie cups are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack. With their irresistible combination of flavors and ease of preparation, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a favorite among peanut butter lovers.