01 -
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 -
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda; set aside.
03 -
Set aside 1/2 cup granulated sugar for coating cookie dough balls before baking.
04 -
Using a stand or hand mixer, cream softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and well combined.
05 -
Add light brown sugar and granulated sugar; beat until mixture is fluffy.
06 -
Add eggs one at a time, mixing each until just combined.
07 -
Mix in vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
08 -
Gradually add sifted dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated; avoid overmixing.
09 -
Cover dough and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
10 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
11 -
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, form 1 to 1 1/2 inch dough balls; roll each completely in reserved granulated sugar to coat.
12 -
Place sugar-coated dough balls approximately 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet.
13 -
Lightly press a fork dipped in sugar onto each dough ball to create a criss-cross pattern, preventing fork from sticking.
14 -
Bake in preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
15 -
Allow cookies to rest on baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes to firm up and release easily from parchment.
16 -
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely; store in an airtight container.