Let’s get baking! Here’s how you can whip up a batch of these cozy delights:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trust me, parchment paper is your best friend in the kitchen, saving you from sticky situations.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and creamy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. This step is crucial for that delightful cookie texture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour. Gradually add this dry mixture into the peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so handle with care!
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Gently press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each dough ball, making sure the cookie dough encases the candy.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they go from perfect to overbaked quickly!
7. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This is the hardest part—waiting while the aroma fills your home—but it’s worth it!