Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie recipe that blends the classic, cozy flavor of peanut butter with the festive flair of chocolate and sprinkles, you’re going to adore this Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies Recipe. I love this because it’s not only simple to whip up, but it also brings out those nostalgic holiday vibes that make cookie time extra special. You’ll find these cookies come out perfectly soft with just the right amount of chocolate decadence, and the holiday sprinkles really put that joyful touch on top. Trust me, once you try this, these will be flying off your cookie trays!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create that melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience—just the right balance of peanut butter richness and chocolaty sweetness. I recommend getting fresh ingredients and always measuring carefully for the best results.

• All-purpose flour: Sifted to avoid lumps and ensure a tender crumb in your cookies.
• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough to be soft without spreading too thin.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for perfect leavening and texture.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor—don’t skip it!
• Unsalted butter: Room temperature butter cream together easily with sugars for the perfect base.
• Creamy peanut butter: I like smooth for this recipe—it blends so evenly and gives that rich peanut flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s chewy texture.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and that subtle caramel note, perfect for brown-sugary chewiness.
• Egg: At room temperature to mix smoothly and add moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract: Gives a warm undertone that soothes the peanut butter and chocolate together.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: I like to use a good quality brand for smooth melting and rich chocolate flavor.
• Coconut or vegetable oil: Mixed into melted chocolate to keep it glossy and easy to dip cookies.
• Holiday sprinkles: The festive touch that brings these cookies to life and adds that Christmas sparkle!

Variations

One of my favorite things is to make this recipe my own by tweaking it based on who’s coming over or the ingredients I have on hand. Don’t hesitate to swap things up—you can customize this cookie to your heart’s content!

• Nut-Free Version: I once made these with sunflower seed butter for a friend with allergies, and they were just as delicious!
• Darker Chocolate Twist: Try bittersweet or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer, less sweet chocolate hit.
• Adding Nuts: Chopped roasted peanuts or pecans add a delightful crunch that also intensifies the peanut butter flavor.
• Vegan Swap: Use vegan butter and a flax egg for a plant-based twist that still tastes amazing.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Space and Oven

Before you dive in, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preheat your oven to 375°F. This makes all the difference—preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and get that perfect texture.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. I always like to do this separately because it makes the blending into the wet mix smoother and avoids clumps in your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the magic begins—the better you cream, the lighter and fluffier your cookies will be.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter becomes light and fluffy. If your egg is too cold, the batter might seize up—so always let that egg come to room temperature first.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture and mix until just combined. Remember to scrape down the bowl sides so all that goodness gets mixed evenly! Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop once it’s incorporated.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape Your Cookies

Use a medium cookie scoop to portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Then take a fork and press down gently on each cookie twice in a crisscross pattern. This not only flattens them just right but gives classic peanut butter cookie marks.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tray in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want to watch the edges—they should be lightly golden but the center still soft. Removing them too late will dry them out, and too early means undercooked dough.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare Chocolate Dip

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 1-minute bursts stirring in between. Once melted, stir in the coconut or vegetable oil to give that glossy finish that’s perfect for dipping.

Step 9: Dip and Decorate

Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the chocolate, then place it on parchment paper. Quickly sprinkle holiday sprinkles onto the chocolate before it sets—it’s what brings those cookies to life visually and flavor-wise. Let them set for about an hour, or pop them gently into the fridge to speed it up.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these cookies with colorful holiday sprinkles—not just for looks but for that fun crunch. Sometimes, I’ll add a little sea salt flake for a grown-up salty-sweet contrast that surprises everyone in the best way.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced coffee during holiday gatherings. I also like serving them alongside classic eggnog to balance the richness with creamy spice.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I arrange these cookies on decorative platters with fresh evergreen sprigs and cinnamon sticks to bring in holiday freshness. Wrapping small stacks tied with red ribbons also makes for charming edible gifts that’ll wow anyone on your list.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Layering them between sheets of parchment paper keeps the chocolate and sprinkles from sticking or getting crushed.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! I freeze them without the chocolate dip first, then once thawed, quickly dip and decorate before serving. This keeps the chocolate fresh and avoids it cracking during freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds. They come out soft and melty like they’re fresh from the oven—just be gentle with the chocolate coating to keep it looking nice.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my heart—it’s the kind of recipe I’ve shared across many holidays, making memories with friends and family. What’s great is how easy it is to make and how stunningly festive it looks on any cookie platter. If you want a crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and celebratory, give this recipe a try. I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it just like I did—there’s something magical about peanut butter, chocolate, and holiday sprinkles all cozying up in one bite!

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