Description
Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies
The perfect balance of sweet and nutty, these cookies are a showstopper for any occasion!
Ingredients:
3/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1 egg
1 box brownie mix
1/4 cup oil
2 tbsp water
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix peanut butter, honey, and egg until smooth.
Prepare brownie mix with oil and water.
Roll brownie dough into balls, flatten slightly, and top with peanut butter mixture. Swirl with a spoon.
Bake for 12 minutes. Let cool and serve.
#HoneyAndChocolate
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the 3/4 cup of peanut butter, 1/2 cup of honey, and one egg until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. In a separate, larger bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package’s base instructions, using the 1/4 cup of oil and 2 tablespoons of water. The brownie batter will be thick and fudgy. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the brownie dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and use your palm or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each ball into a thick disc. Next, spoon about a teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture onto the center of each brownie disc. Use a knife, toothpick, or the tip of a spoon to gently swirl the peanut butter into the brownie base, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, or the two batters will blend together.
Serving Suggestions
These rich cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated with simple pairings. Serve them slightly warm with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. For a dessert platter, crumble a cookie over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of strong black coffee, which cuts through the sweetness. Consider drizzling cooled cookies with a little extra melted peanut butter or a dark chocolate ganache for a more decadent presentation.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 350°F. Create a smooth peanut butter-honey-egg mixture. Prepare brownie batter with oil and water. Form brownie batter into flattened discs, top with peanut butter mix, and swirl. Bake for 12 minutes, then cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but ensure it is well-stirred. The consistency of natural peanut butter can vary, which may slightly affect the swirl texture.
Can I substitute the honey? Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a 1:1 substitute for honey, though the flavor profile will change subtly.
Why are my cookies too cakey? This usually means the brownie batter was over-mixed. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture fudgy.
How should I store these cookies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? It’s best to bake immediately. The brownie batter may thicken and become difficult to swirl if left to sit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-swirling: This blends the two batters instead of creating a distinct, beautiful marbled pattern. Just a few gentle figure-eight motions are enough.
- Over-baking: The cookies will continue to set as they cool on the sheet. Remove them when the edges look set but the centers are still soft.
- Not flattening the brownie base: If the brownie ball is too tall, the peanut butter swirl will slide off during baking.
- Using a hot baking sheet: Always allow your baking sheet to cool completely between batches, or use a second sheet. A hot pan will cause the dough to spread prematurely.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies masterfully combine two beloved flavors into one irresistible treat. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can easily achieve bakery-worthy results with a stunning visual swirl. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a special homemade dessert, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who loves the iconic pairing of honey, chocolate, and peanut butter. Enjoy the delicious fusion of fudgy brownie and creamy, nutty sweetness in every bite.