Introduction
These Peanut Butter Cookie Cups are a delightful mash-up of a chewy cookie and a creamy no-bake filling. You get the best of both worlds in a single handheld treat that’s incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for satisfying a serious peanut butter craving with minimal effort.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 10 cookie cups
Ingredients
- 1 package peanut butter cookie mix (17.5oz package or your fave peanut butter cookie recipe)
- ¼ cup peanut butter chips (divided)
- 1 package cream cheese (8oz/250g package, room temperature)
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the peanut butter cookie mix package directions. Prepare a standard muffin tin by generously greasing 10 cups.
- Prepare the cookie dough according to the package instructions. Gently fold in half (2 tablespoons) of the peanut butter chips.
- Divide the dough evenly among the 10 prepared muffin cups, pressing it into the bottom and slightly up the sides to form a cup shape.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look soft and puffy. Immediately upon removing from the oven, use the back of a spoon to gently press down the center of each cookie to create a well for the filling. Let cool completely in the pan.
- While the cookie cups cool, make the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add the smooth peanut butter and powdered sugar, and beat until completely combined and creamy.
- Once the cookie cups are completely cool, pipe or spoon the peanut butter filling into each cup. Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter chips over the top of the filled cups. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the peanut butter chips and drizzle over the top of the filled cups before serving.
- Swirled Filling: Before adding the filling to the cups, swirl in a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or jam.
- Crunchy Topping: Roll the edges of the filled cups in chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for added texture.
- Mini Versions: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized cookie cups, adjusting the bake time downward by a few minutes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t skip the step of pressing down the hot cookie centers—this is crucial for creating the perfect well for the filling.
- Let the cookie cups cool completely in the pan before filling; this allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.
- For easy removal, run a knife around the edge of each cookie cup once they are cool.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The filling will firm up when chilled. For the best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. These are not recommended for reheating.
FAQ
Can I use homemade peanut butter cookie dough?
Yes, absolutely. Use your favorite peanut butter cookie recipe to yield enough dough for 10 cookie cups.
My filling is too thick. What can I do?
If your filling seems too thick to pipe or spread easily, you can thin it with a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cookie cups a day ahead. Store them unfilled in an airtight container at room temperature. Prepare the filling and assemble the cups on the day you plan to serve them.
Why did my cookie cups stick to the pan?
This usually means the pan wasn’t greased well enough. For next time, use non-stick spray or butter, and consider using paper liners for foolproof removal.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Cups?
You can freeze the unfilled, baked cookie cups for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling. The filling does not freeze well due to the cream cheese.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter in the filling will add a nice texture, but the recipe is written for smooth to achieve a creamy consistency.