Why You’ll Love this Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
If you’re a fan of cookies, you’ll absolutely adore this gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookie recipe. The moment you take that first bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of chocolatey sweetness and rich peanut butter flavor.
What’s even better is how easy it’s to whip up! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Plus, these cookies are soft and chewy, making them perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings.
I love how they remind me of traditional cookies, yet they cater to gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste. Trust me, they’ll be a hit at any gathering, and you might even want to keep them all to yourself!
Ingredients of Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
When it comes to baking cookies, the ingredients are key. For this gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookie recipe, you won’t need a whole lot of complicated items. In fact, most of these ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or can easily find at the store.
Imagine the warm, gooey chocolate chips melting in your mouth while the peanut butter adds that creamy richness. It sounds heavenly, right? So let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to bake something truly delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free all-purpose baking flour
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons gluten free baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or chunks, if you prefer)
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, well-beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Now, let’s talk about a few important notes regarding these ingredients. First off, make sure to use gluten-free products if you’re sticking to a gluten-free diet—trust me, it makes a difference.
For the butter, cold is the way to go; it helps create that perfect texture in your cookies. And if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Don’t worry if you’re not a professional baker; these ingredients play well together, so you’re practically guaranteed a tasty outcome. Just remember to have fun while you’re mixing and baking—it’s all about enjoying the process!
How to Make Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of baking gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookies. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, and yes, maybe don an apron that you’ve been saving for a special occasion.
First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 400 degrees. It’s like getting your baking gym ready for a workout—only this workout ends with a sweet reward.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free all-purpose baking flour, 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 1/4 teaspoons of gluten-free baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Give it a good whisk or mix until everything is well-combined. This is where your muscles get to flex a little.
Next, cut 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter into very small pieces, like you’re trying to create a little butter confetti. Use a pastry blender or two butter knives to blend it into your flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You might feel like you’re on an episode of a baking show, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to feel like a star in their own kitchen?
Now, stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips, and let’s be real—this is the moment when your heart skips a beat. In a separate small cup, whisk together 2/3 cup of buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract before adding it to the dry mixture. Stir it all together gently until the dough comes together; just be careful not to over-mix it or you’ll end up with something rubbery.
If you’re anything like me, you might’ve a brief panic moment wondering if it’s too dry or too sticky. Spoiler alert: it’s probably just right. Transfer that dough to a cool, floured surface and knead it a few times, just enough to bring it together. Shape it into a circle about 7 inches wide and 1 1/2 inches thick.
Then, cut the dough into eighths—like you’re slicing a pizza, but a very decadent, sweet pizza.
Next, let’s give those cookies a little extra love with an egg wash. Combine 1 well-beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of milk, and brush it over the tops of the scones (or cookies, if you prefer). You can also make a simple cinnamon sugar mix with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to sprinkle on top.
Now, transfer your beautiful cookie wedges to a prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Just try to resist the urge to peek too often; that might lead to a cookie disaster (and we don’t want to ruin our masterpiece).
Once they’re done, let them cool on a wire rack, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor. Trust me, these cookies are worth every second you spent baking.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies Substitutions & Variations
While gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookies are already a treat, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate them to new heights.
For a nut-free version, swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk in place of buttermilk.
To change the flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract or mix in some shredded coconut. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark, milk, or even white chocolate can bring a unique twist.
Finally, if you enjoy a bit of crunch, fold in some chopped nuts or seeds. These simple adjustments can make your cookies uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
What pairs perfectly with gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookies? I love serving them with a tall glass of cold almond milk; the creaminess complements the rich flavors beautifully.
You could also whip up a simple fruit salad, adding a rejuvenating touch to balance the sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream makes for a delightful dessert combo.
For a warm beverage, try pairing these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or a rich coffee.
Finally, don’t forget about toppings—drizzling melted chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the experience. Each pairing enhances the cookie’s flavor, making it a truly satisfying treat!
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying gluten-free chocolate chip peanut butter cookies, a few additional tips can enhance your baking experience.
First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and buttermilk; this helps create a smooth dough. If you prefer softer cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
When measuring your flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off; this prevents dense cookies. I also recommend using high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. Finally, keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden-brown finish.
Enjoy your baking adventure!