Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies (Printable Version)

Soft cookies enriched with cocoa and creamy peanut butter, rolled in sugar for a sweet finish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, lightly spooned into measuring cup
03 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (reserved for rolling dough)
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar

→ Wet Ingredients

08 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Step-by-Step Guide:

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.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Chilling the dough improves handling and enhances texture.