This week, the kitchens of Full Moon Cuisine had a special request. A friend was having a birthday, and a request was made for his favorite cookie combining two of his favorite flavors: chocolate and peanut butter. We had recently made a peanut butter cookie that co-starred chocolate. But this time it was chocolate that needed to take the lead, with peanut butter singing back-up. And with a few ingredients and a little time, you can make a cookie that channels the spirit of the peanut butter cup... only better. Here's what you'll need:

- 2 sticks of butter (at room temperature)
- 2 extra large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 2/3 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 10 oz package of peanut butter chips

Note: This recipe will make approximately 3 dozen+ cookies.

To begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, mix the butter and both types of sugar together until light and fluffy. Next, add the vanilla, then combine the eggs (one at a time). After this, add in the cocoa powder and mix together. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda, then incorporate these dry ingredients to your wet in thirds. Be sure to only mix enough to combine, don't overmix the batter or else your cookies will be a bit tough. Finally, add in the peanut butter chips and set aside.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper, then use a small ice cream scoop (about 1 3/4 inches) and place scoops of the dough on the sheet, about 4 per row. Lightly dampen your fingers and gently press down on the mounds of dough to slightly flatten them (not too much). Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, then allow them to cool for another minute on the sheet before you move them to a cooling rack.

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is an ancient and powerful one. These cookies allow each ingredient to shine, while highlighting the harmony created by their union. Make a batch of these for a party and guaranteed you won't be bringing any home! To help celebrate this flavor combination, the kitchen will be staying open late. Care to place an order?

Want to know what this challenge is all about? Check out my journal and feel free to send in recipes for cookies! http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/3096204/