Peanut Butter Lava Cookies
If you’re a fan of the magic that happens when warm peanut butter meets a golden crust, then you’re in for a treat with these Peanut Butter Lava Cookies. Imagine biting into a cookie that has a gooey, molten center just waiting to burst forth with creamy peanut butter goodness. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Peanut Butter Lava Cookies and discover why they are destined to become a new favorite.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Peanut Butter Lava Cookies are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The flaky, buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy peanut butter filling. It’s the kind of dessert that brings joy with each bite, and it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration. Plus, they come together quickly with minimal fuss, making them an ideal choice for when you’re in a pinch but still want to impress!
What You’ll Gather
- 1 package (14 oz) of premade pie crust (the kind that is rolled up in a box, using both crusts)
- 14 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter (JIF original creamy works best)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
Recommended Tools
- Mixing Bowl – for combining the peanut butter and sugar.
- Rolling Pin – to help roll out the pie crust if needed.
- Baking Sheet – for baking the cookies.
- Parchment Paper – to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Cookie Cutter or Glass – to cut out cookies from the rolled crust.
Peanut Butter Lava Cookies, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust
Unroll the premade pie crusts on a clean surface. If the crusts are not thin enough, you can gently roll them out with a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the 14 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Cut the Crusts
Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles from the rolled pie crusts. Aim for about 3 inches in diameter to create the perfect cookie shape.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookies
Place a circle of pie crust on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the peanut butter filling in the center, then top it with another pie crust circle. Press the edges down gently to seal in the filling.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm for the best lava experience!
Make It Your Way
- Add chocolate chips to the peanut butter filling for extra richness.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination.
- Experiment with different nut butters such as almond or cashew for a unique twist.
- Incorporate chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts for added texture.
Don’t Do This
Be cautious not to overfill your cookies with the peanut butter mixture; too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. Also, avoid using natural peanut butter with oil separation, as it may not hold its shape well during baking.
Save It for Later
If you have leftover cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the gooey center.
Peanut Butter Lava Cookies Q&A
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture in your Peanut Butter Lava Cookies.
What if I can’t find premade pie crust?
You can easily make your own pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, and water. Just roll it out to the same thickness as the premade crust before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookies up to the point of baking them, then refrigerate or freeze the assembled cookies until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if baking from frozen.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will continue to set as they cool.
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The Takeaway
Peanut Butter Lava Cookies are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. They offer a delightful surprise with their molten centers, making them an irresistible treat for any peanut butter lover. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a batch that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the warm, gooey goodness of these Peanut Butter Lava Cookies. You won’t regret it!
Peanut Butter Lava Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Unroll the premade pie crusts and roll out gently if needed.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Cut out circles from the rolled pie crusts using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Place a pie crust circle on the baking sheet, spoon in peanut butter filling, and cover with another crust circle.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips to the filling for extra richness.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combo.
- Experiment with different nut butters for a unique twist.
