Description
Who can resist the charm of paw-shaped cookies? These Peanut Butter Paw Print Cookies are not only adorable but also bursting with rich, nutty flavors that make them a crowd-pleaser. Combining creamy peanut butter, mini chocolate chips, and a soft cookie base, this recipe is designed for baking enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Fun fact: Peanut butter-based cookies have been a staple in American households for decades, often passed down as treasured family recipes. Let’s make this tradition even more fun with a paw-shaped twist!
Ingredients
Scale
To prepare this comforting recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for the paw prints)
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Instructions
How to Make Peanut Butter Paw Print Cookies
Follow these steps to create these adorable paw-shaped cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly using your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Create Paw Prints: Press three mini chocolate chips into the top of each cookie to form the paw print design.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping the cookies.
- Even Spacing: Leave about 2 inches between cookies to allow room for spreading.
- Paw Print Design: Use the tip of a spoon to adjust the chocolate chips and make the paw design more defined.