Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies | Easy Dessert

why make this recipe

Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies stand out as a deliciously unique dessert option. The blend of sweet peanut butter cookie dough with the salty crunch of pretzels creates a mouthwatering flavor experience. This recipe is also easy to make, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The cookies are great for a snack, a party treat, or just a simple dessert at home. Even better, they can be customized with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste. You’ll find that the combination of flavors and textures will keep everyone reaching for just one more!

how to make Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies

Making Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies is a straightforward process. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can bake a batch of cookies that not only look fantastic but taste incredible too.

Ingredients :

• 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini pretzels, crushed (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (for sprinkling)

You can swap out regular peanut butter for a natural version, but keep in mind that it might affect the texture. For those with dietary restrictions, use dairy-free butter and egg replacers like flax or chia seeds.

Directions :

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly. While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. You want the consistency to be fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. The creamy base is what gives your cookies a rich flavor and soft texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, crack in 2 large eggs into the creamed peanut butter and butter mixture. Continue mixing at medium speed until the eggs are fully incorporated. This step helps to further blend the ingredients together and adds the moisture needed for a chewy cookie.

Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. You should have 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture in your large bowl. Use the mixer on low speed for this step to prevent flour from flying everywhere. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Pretzels

Now it’s time to mix in the fun part! Take 1 cup of crushed mini pretzels and fold them into the cookie dough. You can crush the pretzels by hand or place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them finely. Make sure the pretzels are evenly distributed throughout the dough but avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Shape the Dough and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space (about 2 inches) between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. Once all the dough is portioned out, gently press a few extra crushed pretzels on top of each cookie for added texture and visual appeal.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to remain soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Add the Finishing Touch

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of caramel sauce and sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt on top for the perfect salty-sweet finishing touch.

how to serve Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies

These delicious cookies can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving platter. You can even layer them with some decorative parchment paper for an appealing look.

2. Accompany with Milk: For a classic pairing, serve them with a glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich flavors of the cookies flawlessly.

3. Dessert Table: If you’re hosting a gathering, place these cookies on a dessert table alongside other treats. Their unique flavor will draw attention and keep your guests coming back.

4. Give as Gifts: Package a batch of these cookies in a cute tin or cellophane bag with a ribbon. They make excellent gifts for friends and family, especially around holidays or special occasions.

5. Warm Up: Slightly warming the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds before serving can make them go soft and gooey, enhancing the flavor experience!

how to store Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies

To keep your Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, proper storage is key. Here are some tips for storing:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cookies within a week, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them soft and delicious.

• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just ensure they are fully cooled before sealing them to avoid condensation.

• Freezing: If you want to store the cookies for an extended period, you can freeze them. Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. The cookies can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave as desired.

tips to make Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your peanut butter and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend better, resulting in a creamier dough.

2. Don’t Overbake: To keep the cookies soft, keep an eye on them while baking. Remove them from the oven when the edges are slightly golden but the centers look a bit underdone.

3. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your cookies can be impacted significantly by the quality of your ingredients. Use good-quality peanut butter, fresh eggs, and real butter for the best results.

4. Experiment with Pretzel Size: You can adjust the crunch by varying the size of the crushed pretzels. Larger pieces give a big crunch, while finer pieces blend in more with the dough.

5. Add Chocolate: For an extra indulgent treat, consider mixing in some chocolate chips or chunks into the dough along with the pretzels.

variation

While the classic Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies are delightful on their own, you can easily make some variations to keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas:

1. Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the caramel sauce for melted chocolate, or use both for a decadent twist!

2. Different Nut Butters: Feel free to experiment with other nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique flavor profile.

3. Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, mix in chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts along with the crushed pretzels.

4. Seasonal Spices: Depending on the season, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm flavor.

5. Stuffed Cookies: Use the dough to make stuffed cookies by adding pieces of chocolate or even a dollop of peanut butter in the center before baking.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check the pretzels for gluten-free options as well.

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of commercial peanut butter?

You can use natural peanut butter, but it may change the texture of the cookies. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily and could lead to cookies that spread more than standard peanut butter.

How long do the cookies stay fresh?

The cookies will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If refrigerated, they can last up to two weeks, and if frozen, you can enjoy them for up to three months.

Can I skip the caramel drizzle?

Yes, you can absolutely skip the caramel drizzle if you prefer. The cookies are still delicious on their own, with the salty-sweet pretzel topping adding enough flavor.

What other toppings can I use?

Besides caramel, you can try drizzling melted chocolate, adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a different finish. Experiment and find your favorite combination!

With this simple yet flavorful recipe for Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll be able to whip up a delightful treat that everyone will love. Happy baking!

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