Step 1

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

2. Place butter and peanut butter in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat on high until very creamy.

Step 3

3. Beat in ½ cup (125 mL) sugar until well blended. Then beat in egg yolks, one at a time, scraping down sides as needed. Beat in vanilla and then flour until combined.

Step 4

4. Place 3 tbsp (45 mL) sugar in a shallow dish. Form dough into 1-inch (2.5-cm) balls, and roll in the sugar. Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Use your finger to press into centre of each dough ball to form an indent.

Step 5

5. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, place a peanut butter cup in indent and then continue to bake until golden and set, about 6 to 8 more minutes.

Step 6

6. Remove to a rack to cool completely. When completely cool, dust with icing sugar.