Name: Delicious Apple-Gruyère Slab Pie for Cozy Gatherings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Peanut Butter (Use natural, unsweetened varieties for a rich flavor and ideal binding.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Consider coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.); 2 Eggs (Flax eggs are a great vegan substitute.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Use fresh to ensure your cookies rise perfectly.); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Choose dark chocolate for an intense flavor or semi-sweet for that classic taste.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

“Isn’t it funny how a simple sweet can transport us back to cherished memories?” With every bite of these Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, I’m reminded of warm afternoons spent baking in my grandmother’s kitchen. This recipe is a delightful homage to those moments, packed with rich nutty flavor and a chewy texture that would make anyone weak in the knees. Perfect for a quick treat, these cookies come together in under 30 minutes with pantry staples, making them an effortless choice for busy home chefs. They’re not just gluten-free; they’re a sure-fire crowd-pleaser, brimming with the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Why wait to indulge in the nostalgia of homemade goodness? Let’s bake these irresistibly tasty cookies and create new memories together!

Why are these cookies a must-bake?

Effortless to prepare, you’ll find that these cookies come together in no time at all—perfect for busy days! Rich flavor from the creamy peanut butter and melty chocolate chips creates an irresistible treat. Guilt-free indulgence: With gluten-free options available, everyone can enjoy them! Versatile and adaptable, you can swap in different nut butter or add mix-ins like oats or dried fruit. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or top them with a scoop of ice cream, just like my favorite Zucchini Onion Pie alongside, and watch them disappear at your next gathering!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake some deliciousness!

For the Cookie Dough

Peanut Butter – Use natural, unsweetened varieties for a rich flavor and ideal binding.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; consider coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Eggs – They bind the ingredients together; flax eggs are a great vegan substitute!
Baking Soda – Use fresh to ensure your cookies rise perfectly.
Chocolate Chips – Choose dark chocolate for an intense flavor or semi-sweet for that classic taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make for an easy cleanup. This is the perfect time to gather all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything ready for your gluten-free peanut butter chocolate chip cookies!

Step 2: Mix Peanut Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of natural peanut butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or a hand mixer, blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the texture is homogenous and well-combined, with no lumps remaining.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Baking Soda
Now it’s time to add in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the peanut butter and sugar mixture. Beat everything together until fully incorporated, which should take another 2 minutes. You’ll see the batter thicken slightly, creating a fluffy mixture that smells heavenly. This step is crucial for binding and leavening your cookies for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough mixture. Ensure that the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a deliciously sweet bite in every cookie. This should take about 1 minute, and be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain that light, fluffy texture characteristic of these gluten-free peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Now that your cookie dough is all set, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop to allow for spreading as they bake. Aim for roughly 12 cookies on one sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for the edges to become golden while the center remains slightly soft. This indicates they are done baking but will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This waiting period lets them set perfectly. After that, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing you to enjoy that dreamy soft center once they reach the ideal serving temperature.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with delightful twists!

Almond Butter: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a subtle nutty flavor that still offers richness and texture.
Coconut Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper caramel flavor and lower glycemic index. This swap not only enhances taste but adds a unique sweetness.
Flax Eggs: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan-friendly version; mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens!
Sea Salt Sparkle: Add a pinch of sea salt to the batter for a sweet-savory balance that elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more satisfying.
Oat Infusion: Mix in rolled oats to boost the texture and nutritional value—this adds a delightful chewiness and heartiness to your cookies. Classic yet different!
Spice It Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter and chocolate. It’s like a hug in a cookie!
Nuts Included: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a boost in healthy fats. Those additional textures make for a fun surprise in every bite!
Chocolate Twist: Experiment with white chocolate chips or chopped up chocolate bars mixed with dark chocolate for a decadent, sweet finish that everyone will adore.

As you explore these options, consider pairing your delightful cookies with a scoop of ice cream or serving them alongside my favorite Fryer Hand Pies for a dessert buffet that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also ensures the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the nutty richness. If you want to enjoy freshly baked cookies later, you can even scoop the dough into portions on a baking sheet and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the cookie dough out of the freezer and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soften before baking as per the directions. Trust me, they’ll come out just as delicious and satisfying!

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy. This way, they remain delicious and ready for snacking any time!

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, place the cookies in the fridge, where they can last up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.

Freezer: To save for later, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating: For a warm, gooey treat, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the chocolate chips are melty.

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature Peanut Butter: Ensure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.
Watch the Baking Time: Do not overbake your cookies; they may appear undercooked but will firm up beautifully as they cool.
Mix-In Magic: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture in your gluten-free peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.
Single Sheet Baking: Bake one sheet at a time to ensure even cooking and perfect cookie texture every time.
Storage Savvy: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness, or freeze for up to three months to enjoy later!

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Enjoy a cozy treat that your loved ones will savor as you set the stage for a delightful meal.

Glass of Milk: Complements the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, making each bite even more heavenly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla pairs beautifully, creating a luxurious dessert experience on warm cookie days.
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness with strawberries or raspberries; their tartness contrasts wonderfully with the cookies’ sweetness.
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie: Infuse the peanut butter flavor in a smoothie for a nutritious drink that echoes the cookies’ essence.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances the cookie’s nutty richness, providing a delightful afternoon indulgence.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate echoes the cookie’s flavors and adds texture that delights.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Offer a different flavor profile while keeping the dessert theme, welcoming a variety of textures for everyone’s palate.
Coconut Macaroons: Dive into the sweet chewiness of macaroons that provide a tropical twist alongside your cookies.
Cinnamon Sugar Peanuts: For a savory-sweet option, toss peanuts in cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy snack that contrasts with soft cookies.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter should I use?
I recommend using natural, unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor and binding. This type is creamier and allows the cookies to hold together beautifully without any added sugars or stabilizers.

How should I store my cookies, and for how long will they stay fresh?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, feel free to pop them in the fridge, where they can last for up to one week.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze these delicious cookies, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and they will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply microwave them for 15-20 seconds to melt the chocolate chips back to gooey perfection.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are overly dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on them; they should have slightly soft centers when you take them out. If you find yourself with dry cookies, you can try adding a spoonful of peanut butter or vanilla ice cream on top to add moisture back in when serving.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, these cookies contain peanuts and eggs, so be cautious if you or anyone you’ll be serving has allergies to these ingredients. For a safe alternative, opt for seed butter if nut allergies are a concern, and use flax eggs for a vegan version.

Can I customize my cookies with additional ingredients?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in a range of goodies like nuts, oats, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the balance in mind and adjust the other ingredients accordingly to maintain that perfect chewy cookie texture.