The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house is a sure way to bring back memories of childhood joy. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies, a delightful treat that beautifully combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet burst of butterscotch chips. Not only are these cookies incredibly simple to prepare—no chilling required—but their inviting flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these soft, chewy cookies are sure to hit the spot. Ready to grab your apron and elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why are these cookies a must-bake?
Unmatched Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet butterscotch chips creates an irresistible dessert that is both comforting and nostalgic.
Quick and Easy: With no chilling required, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in under an hour, making them perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings or surprise guests.
Versatile Treat: These cookies can be customized with mix-ins like nuts or dark chocolate chips, allowing you to cater to various taste preferences or pantry items on hand.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re baking for a party, family gathering, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit! Plus, why not also try variations like Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Candy Bars or Peanut Butter Brownie Cups for more delicious options?
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture. Substitution: Can use margarine if preferred.
• Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to texture. Substitution: Can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, rich flavor. Note: The darker the sugar, the more flavor complexity.
• Peanut Butter – Main flavor base; adds fat and creaminess. Substitution: Almond butter for a nutty twist.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture. Tip: Use room temperature eggs for a better mix.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor profile. Note: Pure vanilla extract is preferred for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies. Tip: Measure flour correctly to avoid dry cookies.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise and become fluffy. Note: Ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Tip: Adjust if using salted butter.
• Butterscotch Chips – Main flavor punch with sweetness. Substitution: Semi-sweet chocolate chips for chocolate lovers.
• White Chocolate Chips – Adds creaminess and extra sweetness. Note: Optional but recommended for texture contrast.
• Sea Salt (Optional) – Enhances flavor and adds a savory touch. Tip: Sprinkle on top before baking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a perfectly baked batch of Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies. While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Using a mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies soft. The dough should come together and be slightly sticky, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 4: Fold in the Chips
Gently fold in the butterscotch and optional white chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure that the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating pockets of sweetness in each cookie. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful sweetness with every bite!
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using an ice cream scoop or a generous tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Be sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each dough ball to allow for spreading as they bake. You should have about 12 cookies per baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden color around the edges, while the centers should remain soft and slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly.
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 2-3 minutes. This resting period helps them set before transferring them to a cooling rack, ensuring they retain their shape and softness.
Step 8: Optional Finishing Touch
If you’d like an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt atop each cookie while they are still warm. This not only enhances the flavor of your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies but also adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the butterscotch chips. Enjoy your freshly baked treats!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies
The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies can transform any meal into a delightful feast.
- Milkshake: A creamy vanilla milkshake offers a rich, cold contrast to the warm cookies, complementing their sweet flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing touch, balancing the cookies’ sweetness and bringing a splash of color to your dessert table.
- Ice Cream: Top these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream; the melty creaminess enhances the cookies’ textures and flavors for an indulgent treat.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the cookies’ nutty notes while providing a cozy touch to your dessert experience.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of decadence that any chocolate lover would adore.
- Nutty Granola: Serve with a sprinkle of nutty granola on the side for added crunch, creating a delightful texture contrast alongside the soft cookies.
Indulging in these suggestions will elevate your cookie experience, making it feel like a special occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it (just cover it tightly to prevent drying out). Alternatively, scoop individual dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to freeze them on a baking sheet first before transferring to a container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This ensures that you’ll have fresh, warm cookies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if they were made from scratch that same day!
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies Variations
Feel free to tweak this delightful recipe and make it your own—let’s get creative together!
- Nutty Upgrade: Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a delicious twist.
- Chocolatey Delight: Swap butterscotch chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Crunchy Add-ins: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and crunch.
- Peanut Butter Lovers: Add in a couple of tablespoons of extra peanut butter for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy element that surprises.
- Fruity Fusion: Stir in dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet-tart flavor dimension.
- Oatmeal Boost: Replace a portion of flour with rolled oats for a chewier and heartier cookie.
- Sweet Seasalt Finish: Top with a light sprinkle of sea salt before baking for that amazing sweet and salty combo.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking to switch things up and want to explore more cookie options, don’t miss trying out some delicious Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Candy Bars or the rich Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake for a delightful ending to your meal!
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies
Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour to ensure your cookies remain soft and tender, delivering that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Correct Flour Measurement: For best results, measure your flour by fluffing it up and leveling it off, preventing dense cookies that might come from packing it down.
Mind the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking; they will continue to set as they cool, so pull them out when they’re lightly golden and soft in the center.
Chilled Dough Advantage: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help with the cookie shape, preventing excessive spreading during baking.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Be sure your baking soda is fresh for proper leavening; expired baking soda can lead to cookies that don’t rise as expected.
Don’t Skip the Salt: A pinch of sea salt on top of your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies right after they come out of the oven elevates the flavor and balances out the sweetness.
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies
Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and preserves their delightful flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are heated through yet still soft.
Make-Ahead: Dough for the Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking, making it convenient for last-minute cravings!
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peanut butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! Opt for a creamy, unsweetened peanut butter to achieve a smooth consistency in your cookie dough. Natural peanut butter, with minimal ingredients, is a wonderful choice, as it contributes to a rich flavor without any added sugars or oils that could alter the texture of your cookies.
How should I store my Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies?
You can store these delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, keeping them soft and fluffy. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
What is the best way to freeze Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies?
The more the merrier, right? To freeze your cookies, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months! Whenever you’re in the mood, just heat them for 10-15 seconds in the microwave.
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! Excessive spreading can happen for a couple of reasons. Be sure not to overmix the dough after adding the flour, as it could cause the cookies to flatten. Additionally, if your butter was too warm or if you didn’t chill the dough before baking, that could lead to spreading. For a better shape, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! To cater to gluten-free dietary needs, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This should provide similar texture and flavor. Just ensure that your baking soda is also certified gluten-free to avoid any gluten contamination.
Can I leave out the butterscotch chips?
Of course! Feel free to customize your cookies by leaving out the butterscotch chips or swapping them for your favorite mix-ins like semi-sweet chocolate chips or nuts. The flavorful peanut butter base will still shine through, offering a delightful treat no matter what you choose!
Heavenly Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies You'll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the butterscotch and optional white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop the dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until lightly golden on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie while they are warm.