Peanut Butter Cocoa Cookies

I love using oats in baking because, combined with whole grain flour, it makes a delicious, heart-healthy, frugal treat. One of my favorite combinations is cocoa, peanut butter and oats so I was more than excited when I found this simple cookie recipe:

Peanut Butter Cocoa Cookies

• 3/4 c. butter, softened
• 1/2 c. peanut butter
• 1 c. sugar
• 1/2 c. brown sugar
• 1 t. baking powder
• 1/2 t. baking soda
• 3 T. vegetable or olive oil
• 1/2 c. cocoa powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 t. vanilla
• 1-1/4 c. whole wheat flour
• 2 c. rolled oats
• 1 c. nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Beat butter and peanut butter until smooth. Beat in sugar, brown sugar, baking powder and baking soda until creamy. Add oil, cocoa, eggs and vanilla and beat until combined. Beat in as much flour as possible, stir in remainder. Fold in oats and nuts (if desired).

Drop by rounded teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 375 for 8 to 10 minutes per batch. Let cool on sheet before removing. Enjoy!

Looking for more oatmeal, peanut butter and chocolate recipes? Try these:
No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies
Monster Cookies