why make this recipe
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a fun and delicious treat for all ages. They combine the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter, making them irresistible. These cookies are perfect for Halloween or any time you want to impress friends and family. The spider decoration adds a playful touch, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing.
how to make Chocolate and Peanut Butter Spider Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Chocolate candy for decoration (e.g., chocolate M&Ms)
- Edible eyes or chocolate chips for spiders
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together peanut butter, cocoa powder, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, egg, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, decorate the cookies with chocolate candies and edible eyes to create spider designs.
how to serve Chocolate and Peanut Butter Spider Cookies
These cookies are best served fresh and are a great snack or dessert. You can arrange them on a colorful plate to make them look even more festive. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a glass of milk for dipping.
how to store Chocolate and Peanut Butter Spider Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
tips to make Chocolate and Peanut Butter Spider Cookies
- Make sure to use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft when you take them out of the oven.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate candies for decoration.
- You can also use mini chocolate chips instead of M&Ms for a fun variation.
variation
For a twist, try adding chopped nuts or using crunchy peanut butter for texture. You can also use white chocolate instead of regular chocolate for a different flavor contrast.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer if you want to make them egg-free.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter?
While you can use natural peanut butter, it may change the texture slightly. Creamy peanut butter is recommended for best results.
3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use gluten-free certified cocoa powder and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free. This will ensure that your cookies are safe for those avoiding gluten.