Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

Introduction

Peanut Butter Miso Cookies are a game-changer for anyone who loves the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and deeply savory flavors. These chewy, nutty delights take classic peanut butter cookies to the next level with the unexpected addition of miso paste, which adds a rich umami depth that makes each bite irresistibly complex. The result? A cookie that’s as comforting as it is intriguing, offering layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

The first time I made these, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but the moment they came out of the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The contrast of creamy peanut butter and the subtle saltiness of miso creates a cookie that’s both familiar and delightfully different. They’re perfect on their own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavor even more.

These cookies are surprisingly easy to make, too. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick mix, you can have a batch of warm, chewy cookies ready in no time. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, treating yourself to something new, or simply craving a sweet-and-savory twist on a classic, Peanut Butter Miso Cookies are sure to be a standout hit!

Perfect for:

• Peanut butter lovers
• Unique flavor enthusiasts
• Holiday baking
• Gifting and sharing
• Tea and coffee pairings

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

Here’s why Peanut Butter Miso Cookies will become a new favorite in your cookie rotation:

• Sweet and Savory Balance: The miso paste enhances the peanut butter’s nuttiness while adding a subtle umami depth.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, chewy center.
• Easy to Make: With just a few pantry staples, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Unique Flavor Profile: If you love experimenting with flavors, this cookie offers something new and exciting.
• Versatile and Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or sesame seeds to create your perfect variation.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-140 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Peanut Butter Miso Cookies:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
• ½ cup white miso paste (mild or yellow miso works best)
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for a softer texture)
• ½ cup chopped peanuts or sesame seeds (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Peanut Butter: Provides a rich, nutty base and a chewy texture. Natural peanut butter works, but regular peanut butter creates a smoother cookie.
• Miso Paste: Adds an umami depth that enhances the peanut butter’s flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Helps create a soft and chewy texture while adding a slight caramel-like richness.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a tender cookie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, stir in the peanut butter and miso paste, blending until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. If the dough feels too thick, add the optional milk.
6. Fold in Add-ins: If using chopped peanuts or sesame seeds, gently fold them into the dough.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

7. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Flatten Slightly: Use a fork to gently press down each cookie in a crisscross pattern, just like traditional peanut butter cookies.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

This recipe are a versatile treat that pairs well with many accompaniments:

• Classic with Milk – Enjoy warm cookies with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat.
• Ice Cream Sandwich – Place a scoop of vanilla, miso caramel, or matcha ice cream between two cookies.
• Drizzled with Chocolate – Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a rich contrast.
• Paired with Coffee or Tea – Serve alongside a strong espresso, matcha latte, or chai tea for a sophisticated pairing.
• Crumble Over Yogurt – Break cookies into pieces and sprinkle them over Greek yogurt with honey.
• Dipped in Caramel or Honey – Serve with a side of warm caramel or honey for dipping.
• With Cheese and Fruit – Pair with aged cheddar, brie, or blue cheese along with figs or apples for a gourmet twist.
• Peanut Butter & Jam Stack – Spread peanut butter and jam between two cookies for a PB&J-inspired sandwich.
• Topped with Whipped Cream & Nuts – Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.
• Served Warm with Miso Glaze – Brush a light miso-maple glaze over warm cookies for an extra umami kick.

Additional Tips for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

To make this recipe perfect every time:

• Use Mild Miso: White or yellow miso provides the best balance without being too salty. Avoid red miso, as it can be too strong.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking.
• Try Different Nut Butters: Almond butter or cashew butter can be used instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Sprinkle sesame seeds or flaky sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the granulated sugar slightly.

Recipe Variations for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

Try these 10 variations to customize this recipe:

• Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
• Tahini Miso Cookies: Swap peanut butter for tahini for a more pronounced sesame flavor.
• Oatmeal Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Add ½ cup of rolled oats for a heartier texture.
• Nutty Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or cashews.
• Spicy Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
• Caramel Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Drizzle caramel over the baked cookies for extra richness.
• Sesame Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Roll the dough balls in sesame seeds before baking.
• Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter Miso Cookies: Use crunchy peanut butter for more texture.

Freezing and Storage for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

• Freezing: Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing the Dough: Scoop cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

For the best results, use these kitchen tools:

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – To efficiently cream the peanut butter, miso, butter, and sugars for a smooth, well-mixed dough.
• Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper – Prevents cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
• Cookie Scoop (or Ice Cream Scoop) – Helps portion out uniform cookie dough balls for consistent baking.
• Wire Cooling Rack – Allows cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy on the bottom.
• Offset Spatula – Useful for spreading and flattening the cookies if needed, or for transferring them without breaking.

Frequently Asked Questions for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter? Yes, chunky peanut butter adds extra texture, but smooth peanut butter gives a more uniform dough.
2. Can I substitute almond or cashew butter? Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter works well, though the flavor will differ slightly.
3. What type of miso should I use? White or yellow miso is best for a balanced flavor. Avoid red miso, which is too strong.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done? The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should look slightly soft but firm as they cool.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Miso Cookies offer an exciting twist on the classic peanut butter cookie, blending sweet, salty, and umami flavors for a deliciously unique treat. With their rich, nutty taste and perfectly chewy texture, these cookies are a delightful surprise in every bite.

Perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee, gifting to friends, or enjoying as an afternoon snack, this recipe is as easy to make as it is irresistible. Whether you’re an adventurous baker or simply love a good cookie, these Peanut Butter Miso Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

I’d love to see how your cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!

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