Magic in the Middle

Magic in the Middle Chocolate Dough: 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup sugar (plus extra for dredging) 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg Peanut butter filling: 3/4 cup peanut butter, crunchy or smooth, your choice 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar Preheat oven to 375 degrees; lightly grease two baking sheets. To make the dough: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In another medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the sugars, butter, and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and the egg, beating to combine, then stir in the dry ingredients, blending well. To make the filling: In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth. With floured hands or a teaspoon scoop, roll the filling into 26 one-inch balls. To shape the cookies: Scoop 1 tablespoon of the dough (a lump about the size of a walnut), make an indentation in the center with your finger and place one of the peanut butter balls into the indentation. Bring the cookie dough up and over the filling, pressing the edges together cover the center; roll the cookie in the palms of your hand to smooth it out. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.