Inspired by the classic Payday candy bar, these cookies blend a rich brown butter dough with sweet and salty peanuts for a chewy, nutty treat. Rolled in salted roasted peanuts, each cookie delivers a satisfying crunch while highlighting the caramel-nougat inspiration. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or a weekend baking project, this recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers yet produces bakery-quality results.
Ingredients (Makes 32 cookies)
For the Cookies:
- Β½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 1 packed cup (220 g) dark brown sugar
- β cup (187 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1Β½ cups (192 g) all-purpose flour
- 1Β½ teaspoons kosher salt (e.g., Diamond Crystal)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
For the Coating:
- 1 large egg
- 2Β½ cups (350 g) salted roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Method
Step 1 β Brown the Butter
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Reduce to medium-low once it bubbles and stir constantly until it turns golden brown and fragrant, about 4β5 minutes. Scrape all butter solids into a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2 β Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat the cooled brown butter with dark brown sugar and peanut butter until pale and creamy, 2β3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Gradually mix in flour, kosher salt, and baking soda until fully combined.
Step 3 β Prep Oven & Baking Sheets
Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange oven racks in the top and bottom thirds.
Step 4 β Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough into roughly 1Β½-tablespoon balls and set aside.
Step 5 β Prepare Coating
Whisk the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water. Spread chopped peanuts on a plate.
Step 6 β Coat the Cookies
Dip each dough ball into the egg mixture, then roll in chopped peanuts, pressing lightly. Place about 1 inch apart on baking sheets and flatten to Β½-inch thick. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Step 7 β Bake
Bake for 13β14 minutes until edges are golden. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the sugar and peanuts. Rolling in roasted peanuts not only boosts texture but also mimics the iconic Payday candy bar flavor profile. The method ensures soft, chewy centers while creating crisp, golden edgesβmaking these cookies irresistible.
