As I prepared to bake, the warm, nutty aroma of peanut butter wafted through my kitchen, igniting a craving for some nostalgic sweetness. These Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are not just any treat; they evoke the memories of those beloved Subway Peanut Butter Cookies we all adore. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a few simple ingredients, you too can whip up a batch that brings joy in just 16 minutes! Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to make, but they also promise to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re feeding a family or just indulging in some well-earned “me time,” these cookies are an irresistible choice. Curious about how to bring this classic delight to your oven? Let’s dive in!
Why are these Subway Peanut Butter Cookies special?
Nostalgic Flavor: These cookies capture the beloved Subway Peanut Butter Cookies essence, igniting warm memories with each bite.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll have freshly baked cookies that feel like a labor of love.
Soft and Chewy: The unique blend of peanut butter and shortening creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s truly satisfying.
Customizable Treat: Feel free to get creative—add in chopped nuts or swap peanut butter for almond butter for a twist.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, these cookies will be the highlight on any dessert table, impressing your friends and family alike.
If you’re in the mood for an equally delightful dessert, check out my Brown Butter Mashed for a savory twist!
Subway Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
• You won’t believe how simple these ingredients are!
For the Cookies
- Peanut Butter – Main flavor component; choose creamy for a smoother texture or chunky for extra crunch.
- Butter – Adds richness and softness; feel free to substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Shortening – Key for that desirable chewiness; you can replace it with additional butter if needed.
- Brown Sugar – Infuses sweetness and depth, making these Subway Peanut Butter Cookies irresistibly chewy.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances the overall sweetness and enhances the texture of the cookies.
- Eggs – Essential for binding and moisture; don’t skip this ingredient!
- Flour – Provides crucial structure for those perfect cookie shapes.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; always use fresh for the best outcome.
- Salt – Elevates the flavors; a necessary touch to balance sweetness.
- Chopped Peanuts (optional) – Sprinkle these in for delightful extra crunch and flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Subway Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture. While the oven is warming up, gather your mixing bowls and cookie sheets to get ready for the delicious journey ahead.
Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shortening, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is pale and fluffy. A light, airy texture signals that you’re ready for the next step—your base for these Subway Peanut Butter Cookies is shaping up beautifully!
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Next, incorporate the eggs into the creamed mixture. Beat them in one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. This will create a smooth base for your dough, allowing the flavors to marry perfectly. The glossy appearance lets you know that it’s time to add in the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined—avoid overmixing, as you want your cookies to stay soft and chewy. As the dough forms, you’ll feel a sense of anticipation for the delicious Subway Peanut Butter Cookies that are on the way!
Step 5: Fold in Chopped Peanuts
If you’re adding chopped peanuts for an extra crunch, gently fold them into the dough now. This is the perfect opportunity to add that delightful texture that will complement the creamy peanut butter flavor. The chunks of peanuts will be a pleasant surprise in every bite!
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a 1 1/2-inch cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the dough and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space each scoop about 2 inches apart, as these cookies will spread slightly while baking. Visualize those perfectly spaced cookie mounds; soon they’ll transform into golden delights!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 11 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them; the edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain just set. This slight underbaking is key to achieving that chewy texture we adore in Subway Peanut Butter Cookies!
Step 8: Cool on a Wire Rack
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is essential as it allows them to set properly while maintaining that gooey, delightful center. Enjoy the warm aroma filling your kitchen!
Subway Peanut Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Healthier Oats: Replace ½ cup of flour with 1 cup of oats for added texture and fiber. These cookies can be both chewy and nutritious.
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Nut Butter Swap: Try almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a new flavor profile. Each nut brings its own unique taste to your treat.
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Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips or 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a decadent chocolatey twist. You’ll get a wonderful contrast between the rich peanut butter and chocolate!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for warmth and depth. These simple additions can elevate your cookie experience.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free substitute for butter and margarine to create a fully dairy-free version. Your friends with dietary restrictions will love you!
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Crunchy Textures: Experiment with different types of nuts! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add delicious crunch and a pleasing contrast to the soft cookie dough.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute part of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a subtly sweet, caramel-like flavor. Just remember to adjust the flour to maintain the right consistency.
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Savory Kick: For those who crave a savory element, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. This touch enhances the sweet and salty flavors delightfully.
If you’re looking to try something equally scrumptious, bring some warmth into your home with my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies!
What to Serve with Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Looking to create a delightful spread that perfectly complements the rich, nutty flavor of these cookies?
- Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of milk beautifully balances the peanut flavor, making each bite purely blissful.
- Coffee: The warm bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of peanut butter cookies while adding a cozy touch to your dessert ritual.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop up some vanilla ice cream alongside your cookies. The cool creaminess contrasts with the chewy texture, making it a truly indulgent experience.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your cookies for a decadent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The rich chocolate adds a luxurious twist!
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, zesty fruits provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dense cookies, balancing flavors and adding a vibrant brightness to your dessert table.
- Peanut Butter Milkshake: For a fun twist, blend up a peanut butter milkshake. It echoes the cookie flavor but in a cool and drinkable format.
- Chewy Granola Bars: For a healthier option, serve chewy granola bars. They share a similar texture and can add a nice crunch alongside your cookies.
Embrace the joy of pairing these delightful options with your Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a truly memorable experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and scooping the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once prepped, simply cover the sheet tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for even baking. The cookies will come out just as delicious and chewy as when freshly made, ensuring you still have that delightful homemade taste without the last-minute rush. Enjoy the convenience of this make-ahead option while delighting in the nostalgic flavor of Subway Peanut Butter Cookies!
Expert Tips for Subway Peanut Butter Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and shortening are at room temperature. This helps achieve a creamy, fluffy texture when creaming, essential for delicious cookies.
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Avoid Overbaking: Bake just until the edges are golden and centers are slightly soft. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies instead of the soft, chewy Subway Peanut Butter Cookies you desire.
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Uniform Dough Size: Use a size 40 cookie scoop for even cookie sizes. This ensures they bake uniformly, creating a perfect batch every time.
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Storing Dough: If you’re preparing the dough ahead of time, using margarine can prevent it from solidifying, making it easier to scoop later.
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Baking Sheet Preparation: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze while keeping cookies perfectly shaped.
Storage Tips for Subway Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their soft, chewy goodness.
Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm climate, place the cookies in the fridge for extra freshness, but enjoy them within 1 week for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies! Flash freeze the cookie dough scoops on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked warmth again, briefly microwave a cookie for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Subway Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peanut butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting peanut butter, you can choose creamy or chunky based on your texture preference. Creamy peanut butter will result in a smooth cookie, while chunky will add delightful bites of peanuts throughout. Look for a brand that uses minimal ingredients—ideally, just peanuts and salt for optimal taste.
How should I store my leftover cookies?
For the best results, store your Subway Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you live in a warm climate, refrigeration can help them stay fresh, but consume within a week to preserve that delightful chewiness.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop individual dough portions onto a tray lined with parchment paper and flash freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the frozen scoops into a freezer bag labeled with the date and type. This way, your cookie dough can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can simply preheat the oven and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
What if my cookies come out flat?
Very common! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to using warm butter or not chilling the dough before scooping. To remedy this, try chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, make sure your baking soda is fresh, as an inactive leavening agent can contribute to flat cookies.
Are these cookies safe for people with allergies?
It depends! If you or someone you’re serving has a peanut allergy, steer clear from this recipe since it prominently features peanut butter. For an allergy-friendly alternative, consider experimenting with a sun butter—made from sunflower seeds—as a substitute, but make sure it’s free from cross-contamination.
Subway Peanut Butter Cookies: Soft, Chewy Bliss at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in chopped peanuts if using.
- Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing each scoop about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 11 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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