Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies: A Game-Changer Recipe!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped

Posted on December 27, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

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Cooking time

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Introduction to Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

Hey there, fellow cookie lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up something special can feel like a challenge. That’s where these delightful Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a sweet solution for busy days. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces when they bite into these soft, chewy cookies filled with chocolatey peanut butter goodness. Trust me, this recipe is a slam dunk for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

These Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 27 minutes, making them perfect for a quick treat after a long day. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults, ensuring smiles all around. Who doesn’t love a cookie that’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying?

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

Let’s dive into the deliciousness! Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making these cookies a true delight.

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps create a soft texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Peanut butter: The star of the show! It brings that creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cookies and helps them achieve a lovely golden color.
Brown sugar: Packed with moisture, it adds a hint of caramel flavor and keeps the cookies chewy.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture, making the cookies tender.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and stability.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Mini peanut butter cups: These little gems are the surprise inside, adding bursts of chocolatey goodness.

For those looking to switch things up, consider using crunchy peanut butter for an extra texture kick. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies. Each step is designed to help you achieve the perfect cookie, so let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. A hot oven helps the cookies rise and develop that lovely golden color. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. This process is key to achieving the right texture. You want it to be light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture. The eggs bind everything together, while the vanilla enhances the flavor. Mix until everything is well combined. You’ll notice the batter becoming even creamier, and that’s exactly what we want!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure that the baking soda is evenly distributed. This step is important for achieving that perfect rise in your cookies!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want a soft dough that’s ready to be transformed into delicious treats!

Step 6: Fold in Peanut Butter Cups

Time to add the star of the show! Gently fold in the chopped mini peanut butter cups. This ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough, giving you that delightful burst of chocolatey goodness in every bite. Yum!

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want them soft in the center!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them set and makes transferring them easier. After that, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential for achieving that perfect texture. Now, grab a glass of milk and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps the cookies firm up.
For a fun twist, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
Experiment with different types of chocolate for varied flavors.
Keep an eye on baking time; every oven is different!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients. You can use any bowls you have on hand!
Hand mixer or stand mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars. A whisk works too, but it’ll take a bit more elbow grease!
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements. If you don’t have them, use a regular cup as a rough guide.
Wire rack: For cooling the cookies. If you don’t have one, a plate will do just fine!

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
Nut-Free: Use sunbutter or soy nut butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey experience.
Oatmeal Twist: Mix in rolled oats for a chewy texture and added fiber.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a surprising flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For a fun presentation, stack cookies in a mason jar tied with a ribbon.
Offer them at parties with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.

FAQs about Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies

Got questions about these delightful Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re baking.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your cookies. It enhances the peanut flavor and gives each bite a little extra crunch.

How should I store the cookies?

Store your Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies!

What can I substitute for mini peanut butter cups?

If you can’t find mini peanut butter cups, feel free to use chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars. They’ll still give you that delicious chocolatey goodness!

Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Your cookies will still be delicious and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Making these Peanut Butter Cup Basketball Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to taste the deliciousness. Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate that brings smiles and joy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a quick treat, these cookies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let the baking adventure begin. Trust me, you won’t regret it!