why make this recipe
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of dark chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a sweet and salty snack. These cookies are simple to make and will impress your friends and family. Whether you are looking for a dessert for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these cookies are a great choice.
how to make Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- 1 package Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate melting wafers (12 oz)
- 1 Tablespoon coarse sea salt (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and creamy peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and milk. Mix until everything is well combined. Use the warmth from your hands to knead the dough until it holds together.
- Drop the dough in the center of the baking sheet. With the heels of your hands, press the dough into a large rectangle. Aim for a 12×10-inch shape that is about 1/4-inch thick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to lightly brown. Remove from the oven and cut into strips right away using a pizza cutter. Let the cookies cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate melting wafers for about one minute. Stir until smooth, adding an extra 30 seconds of heating if necessary.
- Dunk the bottom of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place them back onto the parchment paper. Once all the cookies are dipped, drizzle any remaining melted chocolate over the tops. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days. ENJOY!
how to serve Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies
These cookies can be served as a delightful dessert after meals or as a sweet snack during the day. They pair well with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea. For parties or gatherings, arrange them on a platter for an attractive display that will draw everyone in.
how to store Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
tips to make Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- If the dough seems too crumbly, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time until it holds together.
- Use good quality dark chocolate for dipping to enhance the flavor of the cookies.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of coarse sea salt to your taste preference.
variation
You can add chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts to the dough for extra crunch. Another variation is to mix in chocolate chips or use white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute chunky peanut butter or almond butter in place of creamy peanut butter if you prefer a different taste or texture.
What can I do if I don’t have chocolate melting wafers?
You can use chocolate chips instead. Just follow the melting instructions, and you can still achieve a delicious chocolate coat for your cookies.
How long do the cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 7 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.