Peanut Butter Cookies

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked peanut butter cookies wafting through your home. These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and crumbly, with a rich, nutty flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or just because, these peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that everyone will love. Plus, they’re made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This peanut butter cookie recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers deliciously soft and chewy cookies with just the right amount of sweetness and a lovely peanut butter punch. What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect texture—slightly crisp on the edges and soft in the middle—which is exactly what you want in a peanut butter cookie.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. It’s also versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your taste with different add-ins or toppings. Plus, it’s free of any ingredients that might conflict with dietary preferences, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular, no added sugar or salt is fine)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How To Make Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue to mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop out dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball gently with a fork, making a crisscross pattern on top. This classic pattern not only looks charming but also helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should look set around the edges but still soft in the center. Don’t overbake, as they will continue to cook slightly on the hot baking sheets after removal.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up while still remaining chewy and soft inside.

Expert Tips

• Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for a purer peanut flavor.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you want thicker cookies that don’t spread too much during baking.
• Don’t skip the fork crisscross pattern—it helps the cookies bake evenly and gives that classic peanut butter cookie look.
• For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them finish cooking on the hot baking sheet.
• Make sure to measure flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: Stir in 1/2 cup of -friendly chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy to add some texture to your cookies.
• Peanut Butter and Oatmeal: Add 1/2 cup of rolled oats to the dough for a heartier cookie with a bit of chewiness.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you need a nut-free alternative.
• Salted Peanut Butter Cookies: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet-salty flavor combo.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread inside the container, which helps maintain moisture. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to stir it well before measuring, as natural peanut butter tends to separate. Using natural peanut butter will give your cookies a rich, authentic peanut flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain the cookie’s texture.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar. This will replicate the moisture and flavor brown sugar provides.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit can be folded into the dough for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much, or it may affect the cookie’s structure.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. This simple, no-fuss recipe makes it easy to whip up batch after batch of soft, chewy, and perfectly flavored cookies using everyday ingredients. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with mix-ins, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your heart. So grab your mixing bowl and get baking—your next peanut butter cookie craving awaits!