Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about baking cookies, especially when it involves Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats with my grandmother. The kitchen was filled with the rich aroma of melting butter and peanut butter, a perfect combination that brought back many fond memories. As we rolled the cookie dough into little balls and pressed our thumbs into the center, we couldn’t help but giggle at the mess we were creating. Filling those indents with Nutella was the ultimate act of indulgence, turning a simple cookie into a heavenly bite of joy. This recipe is perfect for sharing at family gatherings, or just enjoying by yourself with a cup of coffee. Each cookie is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the Nutella adds a luscious touch that makes them truly special. So, let’s dive into this recipe that has become a beloved staple in my home.

What Goes Into Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

The ingredients for Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies come together to create a delightful cookie that balances sweetness and nuttiness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy peanut butter to the fluffy butter, the combination results in a cookie that’s soft on the inside with a slight crisp on the edges.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing that delicious peanut flavor.
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of caramel flavor.
• 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help create a crispy exterior.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise for a lighter texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acids in the dough to help it rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, spicy note.
• 1 cup Nutella: The luscious filling that takes these cookies to the next level.

Preparation Steps for Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Making Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies is a straightforward process that guarantees delicious results. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat unsalted butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar at medium-high speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes. The mixture should be pale and creamy, showing that the butter is well incorporated.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated, giving your dough a uniform texture.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. The smell of vanilla will add a wonderful aroma to your cookie dough.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures an even bake.
5. Turn the mixer on low speed and gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! The dough will be quite thick.
6. Press plastic wrap down onto the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days. Chilling the dough helps to solidify the fats, resulting in a better texture while baking.
7. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Use a 1 1/2-inch spring-loaded ice cream scoop to scoop the dough. Roll each scoop into a uniform ball between your hands.
9. Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Coat the balls in sugar, rolling them to ensure they are evenly covered. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
10. Using your thumb, press down in the middle of each ball to create an indentation. Sprinkle a little more sugar on top of the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
11. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are starting to turn light brown. The centers will look soft but will firm up as they cool.
12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before pressing down again on the middles to deepen the indentation. Fill each indentation with Nutella while the cookies are still warm, allowing it to melt slightly into the cookie.

Change It Up

There are so many ways to customize Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies to your taste! Here are some fun and creative ideas:

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to three months for a quick treat later.
• Freezing: To freeze the cookie dough, scoop the balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate!
• Variations: Try using different fillings like fruit preserves, caramel, or chocolate ganache to switch things up.
• Decorate: Use chopped nuts or sprinkles on top of the cookies for added texture and appearance.

How to Enjoy Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

• Snack Time: Enjoy these cookies as a midday snack with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
• Holiday Treats: These cookies make a wonderful addition to holiday cookie platters.
• Picnic Perfect: Bring these cookies along for picnics or outdoor gatherings; they’re easy to transport.
• School Lunches: Pack these cookies into school lunches as a sweet surprise.
• Gift Giving: Present them in a decorative box as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Perfect for sharing during special occasions like birthdays or family reunions.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are truly a delightful treat that brings nostalgia and joy to any occasion. Their perfect blend of peanut butter and Nutella makes them irresistibly delicious. I encourage you to try this recipe—they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!

Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Indulge in the sweet and nutty delight of Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies. These easy-to-make treats are filled with creamy Nutella and perfect for any occasion. Satisfy your cravings tonight with this delicious recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 30 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1.5 cups creamy peanut butter
• 0.67 cups packed light brown sugar
• 0.67 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup Nutella

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar at medium-high speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Beat in eggs one at a time, stopping to scrape down sides of the bowl.
• Beat in vanilla extract.
• Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg in a medium bowl.
• Turn mixer on low and gradually add flour mixture until just combined.
• Press plastic wrap down onto the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Use a 1 1/2-inch spring-loaded ice cream scoop to scoop dough. Roll each dough into a uniform ball.
• Place remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar in a bowl. Coat the balls in sugar.
• Press thumb down in the middle of each ball to make an indentation.
• Bake for about 10 minutes or until just starting to turn light brown around the edges.
• Let cool a few minutes and then press down on the middle of the cookies to make indentation bigger. Fill indentations with Nutella.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Tip 2: You can freeze cookie dough for up to three months.
• Tip 3: These cookies pair well with a glass of milk!
• Tip 4: Try using different fillings like fruit preserves.
• Tip 5: Use chopped nuts for added texture.

Keyword Dessert Recipes, Easy Cookie Recipe, Nutella Thumbprint Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookies