Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Big, chewy and packed with flavor – these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies give you everything you could want in a cookie. They have a delicious peanut butter flavor without being dry, like so many peanut butter cookies can turn out. The oats add texture and increase the chewiness of these cookies. You really can’t go wrong with tons of chocolate chips in every bite, making them perfect for various occasions such as family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a timeless classic that everyone loves.
• Textural Delight: The addition of oats creates a chewy cookie that’s satisfying to bite into.
• Versatile Treat: Great as a snack or dessert, these cookies are fantastic for sharing or enjoying alone.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or substitute different chocolate varieties for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Baking these delicious cookies is straightforward with the right tools on hand. Gather your equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Baking paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie scoop (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without any spills.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: Helps achieve a creamy batter that blends all ingredients thoroughly.
• Cookie Scoop: Provides uniform cookie sizes for even baking (optional but recommended).

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (softened to room temperature, NOT melted)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (105 grams) (packed)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (66 grams)
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter (130 grams) (smooth, commercially prepared)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (109 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Texture and Flavor

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats (90 grams) (AKA large rolled oats)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (180 grams) (divided)

How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350F (180C or 170C on convection). Line your cookie sheets with baking paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until creamy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix into the batter starting with a few stirs before turning on the mixer at low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Stir in Oats

Add in the old-fashioned oats and stir by hand until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Reserve the remaining chocolate chips for dotting on top of each cookie if desired.

Step 7: Form Dough Balls

Using about 3 tablespoons of dough each, form balls. A large cookie scoop works best; if your dough is sticky, consider chilling it for about 30 minutes for easier handling.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place dough balls on lined sheets about 2-3 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until tops look just set.

Step 9: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let cool on cookie sheets for at least 10 minutes. Optionally place extra chocolate chips on top while warm.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serving peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive gathering, there are plenty of ways to enjoy these delicious cookies.

With Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich flavors of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This treat is especially great during warm weather!

Warm and Fresh

• Serve the cookies warm right out of the oven for an irresistible gooey texture. The chocolate chips will be melty, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruit or other baked goods. This creates an inviting dessert spread for parties or gatherings.

Drizzle with Chocolate

• Add an extra touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the top of the cookies. This not only enhances presentation but also boosts chocolate flavor.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting your peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies involves attention to detail and a few simple tips that can elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: After adding flour, mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill Your Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before forming into balls.
• Bake Until Just Set: Remove the cookies from the oven when they look slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing side dishes with peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that complements dessert well.
3. Nut Butter Dip: Offer a variety of nut butters as dips for an added protein punch alongside your sweet treats.
4. Chocolate Milkshake: A rich shake pairs beautifully with these cookies, creating a decadent dessert experience.
5. Coffee or Tea: Brewed beverages provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing their flavors.
6. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to create an interesting flavor contrast with the sweets.
7. Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars add crunch and can serve as a quick snack alongside your cookie indulgence.
8. Pudding Cups: Individual servings of pudding can offer creamy texture and additional sweetness, making them an excellent pairing choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using melted butter: Many recipes call for softened butter, but if you melt it, the cookies may spread too much. Always use softened butter that’s at room temperature.
• Not chilling the dough: If your dough is too sticky, you might find it hard to scoop. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and results in thicker cookies.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for soft and chewy peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
• Skipping the topping chocolate chips: Adding extra chocolate chips on top before baking enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Baking on an unlined sheet: Using an unlined baking sheet can lead to sticking. Always line your sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Place layers of cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350F (180C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until soft. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

How do I make my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies chewy?

To achieve chewiness, ensure you don’t overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they look just set, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe?

Yes! You can swap out ingredients like using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.

How long do Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies will last about a week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.

Are Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free flour blends.

Final Thoughts

These peanut butter oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are not only big and chewy but also versatile enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or swapping out chocolate chips for dried fruits. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!