When it comes to cookies, peanut butter is an all-time favorite ingredient. But have you ever thought about combining it with miso paste? It might sound unusual at first, but this fusion of flavors creates a cookie that’s both savory and sweet, with deep umami notes that balance the richness of peanut butter. If you’re a lover of unique flavors or just looking to spice up your baking repertoire, this Peanut Butter Miso Cookie recipe is one to try!
In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at how to make these Peanut Butter Miso Cookies and explain each step in detail. We’ll also provide tips, ingredient insights, and possible variations to elevate your baking experience. Let’s dive into it!
Why Peanut Butter and Miso?
Before we start, let’s answer the most obvious question: why miso in cookies?
Miso, a traditional Japanese seasoning, is made from fermented soybeans and can range from sweet and mild (white miso) to dark and intensely flavored (red miso). White miso (also known as shiro miso) is the most delicate variety, with a slightly sweet taste, making it a great pairing with peanut butter. The salty, savory notes of the miso create an intriguing contrast to the natural sweetness of the cookie, giving your palate a multi-layered experience.
The addition of miso also enhances the overall umami flavor of the cookie, which is why it works so well with peanut butter—a nutty, savory ingredient. Together, they create a cookie that is both familiar and surprising, making it perfect for those who want to experiment with bold flavors in their baking.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Miso Cookies
To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure of the cookie.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and creates a soft texture.
- ½ tsp baking powder – Adds additional lift, ensuring lightness.
- ¼ tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookie.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – The butter adds richness and tenderness to the cookies.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and a slightly crisp texture.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter – The star of the cookie, contributing nuttiness and creaminess.
- 1 tbsp white miso paste – Adds depth, umami, and a subtle savory flavor.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup chocolate chips – Adds a layer of sweetness.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., peanuts or almonds) – For added crunch.
- A pinch of cinnamon – Adds warmth and complements the peanut butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed using a hand or stand mixer. Creaming the butter and sugar together creates air pockets, leading to a softer, more tender cookie.
3. Incorporate the Peanut Butter and Miso
Add the smooth peanut butter and white miso paste to the butter mixture. Beat until fully combined. At this point, your dough should have a smooth, creamy texture.
Pro Tip: Miso can be a bit sticky, so make sure to scrape down the sides of your bowl to ensure it’s fully mixed into the dough.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This step adds richness and enhances the flavor of the dough.
5. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Make sure not to overmix the dough; once the flour is incorporated, stop mixing to ensure the cookies don’t become tough.
6. Chill the Dough
Once your dough is fully mixed, it will be quite soft. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
Competitor Gap: Many recipes skip this step or don’t emphasize its importance. Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much and enhances the overall texture.
7. Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center is still soft. The cookies will continue to cook as they cool on the tray, so it’s important not to overbake them.
Variations and Additions
There are plenty of ways to personalize your Peanut Butter Miso Cookies. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add ¼ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Texture: Fold in ½ cup of chopped peanuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the cookies.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
Key Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor.
- White Miso Only: Use white miso for a milder flavor that complements the peanut butter. Darker miso varieties will overpower the cookies.
- Control Your Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can cause the cookies to spread too much. Always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 4g |
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Miso Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of salty miso and sweet peanut butter creates a cookie that’s unique yet familiar. Whether you’re an adventurous baker or just looking for something new to try, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let us know in the comments if you tried this recipe and how it turned out. And don’t forget to experiment with the different variations to make it your own! Happy baking!