peanut butter cookies recipe
The Best peanut butter cookies recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for everyday snacking, but it also works for holidays, potlucks, or even as a quick homemade gift. The ingredients are simple—just peanut butter, sugar, an egg, and a little baking soda—but the result is always satisfying. And since peanut butter is packed with protein and healthy fats, these cookies feel a little less guilty than your average dessert. They’re not overly sweet, so they hit the spot without leaving you in a sugar coma. If you’re looking for a cookie that’s quick, delicious, and always a hit, this one’s a winner.
Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are a timeless favorite, packed with rich peanut flavor and a slightly crisp edge. Perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (for texture)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for extra sweetness)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. -
2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer). -
3
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, beating until fully combined. -
4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in optional add-ins like chopped peanuts or chocolate chips if using. -
5
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. -
6
Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top. -
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake; the cookies will continue to set as they cool. -
8
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Fork (for crisscross pattern)
- Cooling rack
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Cookies
1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter for these cookies?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and less sweet than regular peanut butter, so you may need to adjust the recipe slightly. If your natural peanut butter is unsweetened, consider adding a bit more sugar to the dough. Also, make sure to stir the natural peanut butter well before using it to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
2. Why do my peanut butter cookies turn out too dry or crumbly?
Peanut butter cookies can turn out dry or crumbly if there’s too much flour or not enough fat in the dough. Make sure to measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. Additionally, ensure you’re using the right amount of peanut butter and butter as specified in the recipe. Overbaking can also cause dryness, so keep an eye on the cookies and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
3. Can I make peanut butter cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can make peanut butter cookies without eggs by using a substitute. Common egg replacements include flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), applesauce (¼ cup per egg), or mashed banana (¼ cup per egg). Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on the substitute you choose.
4. How do I store peanut butter cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep peanut butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.
5. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to the peanut butter cookie dough?
Absolutely! Peanut butter cookies pair well with a variety of mix-ins. Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the flavor. If you’re adding mix-ins, fold them into the dough after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Just be mindful not to overload the dough, as too many add-ins can affect the texture and spread of the cookies.
