peanut butter surprise cookies

Let me start by saying I don't understand why these are called peanut butter surprise cookies. I mean, I think it's pretty obvious what's inside. Is there anyone out these who has not seen a reese's peanut butter cup? Who, upon first bite, would be shocked to find a salty peanut butter filling? I suppose it's possible. If so, this one is for you.

Anyway, my husband is obsessed with peanut butter cookies and these are by far his favorite. They are soft, rich, and crazy addictive. While the recipe is not at all sophisticated or the slightest bit gourmet, I assure you these cookies are delicious. And a perfect Friday afternoon treat, if you ask me.

Peanut Butter Surprise Cookies

Recipe from Everyday Baking // Martha Stewart

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
4 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
1 cup packed light-brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup granulated sugar for rolling dough
36 mini peanut butter cups chilled and unwrapped

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using an electric mixer, cream peanut butter and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add brown sugar; beat until combined, scraping down bowl as needed. Add eggs and vanilla, and beat until incorporated.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. With mixer on low speed, gradually beat in flour mixture in two batches.
3. Scoop off dough by the tablespoon; roll into balls. Place granulated sugar on a plate; roll balls in sugar, coating completely. Place 2 inches apart on a nonstick insulated baking sheet.
4. Bake until cookies begin to puff up slightly, about 7 minutes. Remove from oven. Press one peanut butter cup in center of each cookie. Return to oven; continue baking until cookies are golden brown and chocolate has begun to melt, about 6 minutes more. Let cool at least 10 minutes on baking sheet before transferring cookies to rack to cool completely.

HAPPY FRIDAY!