Peanut Butter Cookie Bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dough Base

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 3/4 cup brown sugar
03 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 large egg (optional)
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

→ Peanut Butter Layer

07 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar

→ Mix-ins & Toppings

09 - 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
10 - 1/4 cup crushed Reese's Pieces, chopped peanuts, or mini M&Ms (optional)

→ For Finishing

11 - 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water for brushing

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and facilitate removal.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg (if using) and vanilla extract until well blended. Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar until smooth. Shape this mixture into 24 to 30 small balls and refrigerate for approximately 10 minutes to chill.
04 - Press a portion of cookie dough into each muffin cup, forming a shallow well in the center. Place one chilled peanut butter ball into each well. Top with semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional crushed add-ins. Add a small amount of remaining dough over the top to partially cover the filling.
05 - Brush the tops of each assembled cookie bite with the egg yolk and water mixture to achieve a golden finish upon baking.
06 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the centers are just set.
07 - Allow the cookie bites to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. The peanut butter center will be gooey when warm and firm up as they cool.

# Notes:

01 - Optional egg in the dough can be omitted for dairy or egg-restricted diets, but texture may vary.