Ultimate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies – Gooey, Rich & Easy to Make

Soft, chewy, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, these cookies are made even better with a surprise chocolate center. This lighter version of the traditional peanut butter cup cookie delivers everything you love—without overloading on sugar or calories. Perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or a satisfying sweet treat anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Combo: Peanut butter and chocolate never go out of style.
Lighter Ingredients: Made with better-for-you swaps like natural peanut butter and sugar alternatives.
Soft & Chewy Texture: Bakes up moist and tender with just the right amount of crumble.
Perfect for Sharing: A great make-ahead treat for parties or freezer-friendly snacks.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (smooth)
• 1/4 cup light butter, softened
• 1/3 cup brown sugar substitute (like Swerve or monk fruit)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or white whole wheat flour)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 12 mini dark chocolate peanut butter cups, halved (or use sugar-free variety)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter, light butter, and sugar substitute until smooth.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.

Shape and Fill the Cookies

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
• Press a peanut butter cup half gently into the center of each dough ball.

Bake

• Bake for 9–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set.
• Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Chill and Store

• Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approximate)

Calories: 100 | Carbs: 9g | Fat: 6g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: Prevents spreading and helps cookies keep their shape.
• Use Mini Peanut Butter Cups: They melt just enough and give each bite that gooey center.
• Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbaking keeps the texture soft and chewy.
• Try Sugar-Free Options: Use sugar-free peanut butter cups to reduce carbs and sugar.

Why This Recipe Works

• Familiar, Loved Flavors: Peanut butter and chocolate is a time-tested crowd-pleaser.
• Healthier Adjustments: Uses less sugar and healthier fats without losing flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: Just a few ingredients and simple steps make it approachable for all bakers.
• Perfect Size: Small cookies mean built-in portion control and fewer cravings.

These Peanut Butter Cup Cookies bring all the nostalgic comfort of your favorite holiday treat—with a thoughtful, lighter spin. Moist, satisfying, and filled with chocolatey goodness, they’re the perfect way to indulge smartly, one cookie at a time.