Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

I can't get enough of these Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies! The combination of rich peanut butter and velvety chocolate in each bite is simply irresistible. I love how easy they are to make, and the swirled design always impresses friends and family. Whether I’m baking for a holiday or just as a sweet treat on a random Tuesday, these cookies never disappoint. The best part is that they come together in no time, making them a perfect last-minute indulgence when I’m craving something sweet.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T09:02:32.155Z

I remember the first time I made these cookies; the kitchen was filled with the delightful aroma of peanut butter and chocolate, which instantly took me back to my childhood. The beauty of these pinwheel cookies lies in their simplicity. You get two amazing flavors rolled into one, and it’s surprisingly easy to achieve that stunning pinwheel effect. I found that chilling the dough for a bit makes rolling it out much easier!

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various recipes, but this version has remained a favorite. I’ve found that using quality chocolate and natural peanut butter truly elevates the taste, making these cookies a delightful treat that everyone loves. Plus, the dough can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge, making them a perfect option for unexpected guests or family gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible swirl of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite
Chewy texture with a melt-in-your-mouth finish
Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The harmonious blend of peanut butter and chocolate defines these cookies. When selecting peanut butter, choose a creamy variety for the best texture. Natural peanut butter may require additional sugar as it tends to be less sweet. The cocoa powder not only lends a rich chocolate taste but also contributes to the cookie's color. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa for a more intense flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sugars.

Baking soda serves as a leavening agent and is crucial for achieving the proper rise and texture. Without it, the cookies may turn out flat and dense. The combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar not only sweetens but also impacts the cookies' chewiness. Brown sugar contains molasses, which gives them a softer, more decadent crumb that melts in your mouth.

Perfecting the Technique

When rolling out the dough, ensure a light dusting of flour on your work surface to prevent sticking. Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness for a balance between softness and structure. If the dough becomes too soft during handling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes. This chilling step is crucial in maintaining the layers and preventing the dough from spreading too much during baking.

Slicing the log into even rounds is key for uniform baking. Aim for approximately 1/2-inch thickness to allow the cookies to bake evenly. If you find that some slices are too thick, gently reshape them with your fingers before baking to keep consistency. The cookies should have a soft, slightly glossy appearance when finished, and let them cool completely on a wire rack to set their texture before indulging.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delightful cookies:

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix the ingredients well, ensuring everything is combined for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cookies:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.

Gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half. Wrap one half in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. You can also freeze it for later use.

Create the Pinwheels

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle shape. Roll out the chilled peanut butter dough to the same size. Place the peanut butter layer on top of the chocolate layer and carefully roll them up together into a log.

Slice and Bake

Slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until set.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies!

Serve these cookies warm for a gooey treat or allow them to cool completely for a delightful crispy finish.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the cookies just after they come out of the oven to enhance the flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they'll stay fresh for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply leave them at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to thaw. This preserves their taste and texture, ensuring that they remain chewy and flavorful. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to unwanted changes in texture, making them tough rather than soft.

Flavor Variations

For those looking to experiment, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the sweet and salty contrast of these cookies. Another delightful twist is to incorporate chocolate chips into the dough, adding an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that complements the pinwheel effect.

If you're aiming for a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add some nuttiness while increasing the nutritional value slightly. You could also substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar to offer a slightly different sweetness profile with a hint of caramel flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy?

Yes, creamy peanut butter will work perfectly and may give a smoother texture.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What if I want to add nuts or chocolate chips?

Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor!