Puppy Chow Cookies
If you’re a fan of sweet, crunchy treats that pack a punch of flavor, then Puppy Chow Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine the chocolatey, peanut buttery goodness of puppy chow, but in cookie form! These cookies are not only easy to make, but they also combine the nostalgic flavors of your childhood snack with a chewy, delicious cookie that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply indulging your sweet tooth at home, Puppy Chow Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Let’s dive into why you will love these cookies and how to make them!
Reasons to Love Puppy Chow Cookies
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of peanut butter, chocolate, and the crunch of puppy chow creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Fun Texture: The addition of puppy chow gives these cookies a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with their chewy center.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite mix-ins or toppings.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are a hit at gatherings, making them great for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredient List
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups puppy chow, frozen*
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Extra puppy chow, for pressing on top of cookies
- Powdered sugar, for sprinkling
*Note: Ensure that the puppy chow used is made with halal ingredients.
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: To easily cream butter and sugars together.
- Baking Sheets: For placing the cookie dough before baking.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheets for easy cookie removal.
- Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookie sizes.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cookies once baked.
Step-by-Step: Puppy Chow Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Eggs
Add the creamy peanut butter to the butter-sugar mixture, blending until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Puppy Chow and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the frozen puppy chow and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Step 8: Add Extra Puppy Chow
Press a few extra pieces of puppy chow on top of each cookie for that signature look, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this is perfect for a chewy texture!
Step 10: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Make It Your Way
- Nut Alternatives: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Variety: Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a twist.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even toffee bits for extra texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Using Cold Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Don’t forget to freeze the puppy chow before adding it to the dough; this helps maintain its crunch.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your Puppy Chow Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the unbaked dough or baked cookies. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Baked cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Questions People Ask
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. This will ensure a similar texture.
What can I use instead of puppy chow?
If you don’t have puppy chow, you can use crushed cereal, rice puffs, or even chopped pretzels for a crunchy texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and the centers might look a little soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready!
Bring It to the Table
Puppy Chow Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a fun and delicious way to bring joy to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies will be the star of the show. With their unique flavor and delightful crunch, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a batch of these mouthwatering cookies today!
You won’t regret it, and I promise, Puppy Chow Cookies are a sweet addition that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite of these delightful creations!
Puppy Chow Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the creamy peanut butter and blend until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the frozen puppy chow and chocolate chips gently.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Press a few extra pieces of puppy chow on top of each cookie and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies for longer storage; baked cookies last up to three months in the freezer.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
