It’s funny how some desserts just become your favorite, not because of history, but because they’re effortlessly good. And for me, these peanut butter cookies with creamy milk chocolate are exactly that. They’re the kind of cookie I find myself reaching for when the day’s been long, the weather's a bit moody, or I just want something that feels familiar and comforting. No frills, no stress—just soft, chewy peanut butter dough and a melty square of milk chocolate tucked right in the center like a little surprise.
I think what makes this cookie special is its honesty. It doesn’t try to be anything more than it is—a simple, sweet bite that delivers on flavor and nostalgia. There’s something incredibly satisfying about mixing pantry staples together and pulling a tray of warm cookies out of the oven 10 minutes later. It reminds me that joy can come from the most everyday moments—like stirring peanut butter into sugar or pressing a square of chocolate into soft dough.
Sometimes, I’ll bake a batch late at night while the house is quiet and the lights are low. The scent of warm peanuts and chocolate fills the kitchen, and for a few minutes, everything feels peaceful and still. I’ll pour a glass of milk, grab a cookie (or two), and sit at the counter like I used to as a kid—feet dangling, heart full.
So no, this isn’t a fancy dessert. But it’s dependable, it’s delicious, and it’s one of the few cookies that makes me stop and savor every bite. And really, that’s reason enough to keep baking them again and again.
These Peanut Butter Cookies with Milk Chocolate Center are everything you could want in a homemade treat. First, they’re incredibly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of cookies that taste like they came from a bakery. Second, they offer the perfect combination of flavors—nutty peanut butter and creamy milk chocolate that melt together in every bite. Finally, these cookies are versatile! Whether you’re making them for a family movie night, holiday gift boxes, or simply because you deserve a sweet treat, they fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
The magic of this recipe comes from its simplicity and the ingredients that bring everything together.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the star here, giving the cookies their rich, nutty flavor. If you love a bit of texture, swap it out for crunchy peanut butter. Have a peanut allergy? No problem! Sunflower seed butter or almond butter works beautifully too.
Milk Chocolate Squares: These create the gooey, melty center. Hershey’s is a classic choice, but you can use any milk chocolate you like. Feeling adventurous? Try caramel-filled chocolate or even mini peanut butter cups for a fun twist.
Egg: The egg binds everything together. If you’re baking for someone with an egg allergy, replace it with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
Sugar: Granulated sugar keeps the cookies sweet and chewy. If you want a slightly deeper flavor, swap out half of the sugar for light brown sugar.
Making these cookies is as easy as 1-2-3.
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This small step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your cookies won’t stick.
Step 2: Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and the egg. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t worry—you can chill it later to make handling easier.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies: Scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Center: Press your thumb gently into the top of each ball to create a small well. Pop a square of milk chocolate into the indent, pressing it lightly so it stays in place.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. The cookies will look slightly underdone when you pull them out, but they’ll continue to set as they cool. This step is key for keeping them soft and chewy!
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Resist the urge to dive in right away—the chocolate center needs a little time to firm up (if you can wait that long!).
This recipe is perfect as-is, but it’s also incredibly adaptable.
Make It Gluten-Free: Skip the flour and rely on the egg and peanut butter to hold the dough together.
Vegan Version: Swap the egg for a flaxseed egg and use dairy-free chocolate.
Add a Crunch: Stir in chopped peanuts or toffee bits for extra texture.
Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
These cookies are so good they probably won’t last long, but if you have leftovers:
Storage: Place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm and gooey, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds. If you’re reheating several, arrange them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort treat. For a more indulgent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Hosting a party? Arrange them on a dessert platter with other bite-sized treats like brownies and mini cupcakes.
These Peanut Butter Cookies with Milk Chocolate Center are everything a cookie should be: soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy peanut butter and gooey milk chocolate makes them irresistible, and the best part is how easy they are to make. Whether you’re baking for your family, impressing guests, or treating yourself, these cookies are a guaranteed hit. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the delicious aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home. You’ve got this—and your taste buds will thank you!
These cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the smooth creaminess of milk chocolate. The soft, chewy texture of the cookie contrasts perfectly with the gooey chocolate center, making each bite an indulgent experience. Easy to make and loved by everyone, they’re ideal for satisfying cravings, impressing guests, or even gifting to loved ones. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. Perfect for any time of the year, these cookies are a celebration of flavor and love.
Servings 24
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
These peanut butter cookies with a milk chocolate center are a delightful combination of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and enjoy the sweet reward of freshly baked cookies! 😊
My name is Talia, and I’m the heart and hands behind this blog. As a professional chef with years of experience in the kitchen, I created Velvety Recipes as a space to share my love for food, cooking, and the art of crafting delicious meals that are simple yet elegant.
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