Peanut Butter Cookies

Short Description

Peanut butter cookies are a beloved classic, known for their rich, nutty flavor and delightfully soft yet slightly crisp texture. These cookies are quick to make, requiring minimal ingredients and no special equipment—perfect for a satisfying homemade treat any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This peanut butter cookie recipe is a staple for good reason. It’s incredibly simple, needing just three common ingredients, yet it delivers a deliciously rich and chewy cookie. The traditional crisscross pattern adds charm, and the result is a crowd-pleasing snack that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Peanut butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
3. Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart.
4. Use a fork to flatten each ball, making a crisscross pattern on top.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are set.
6. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a sweet, melty touch.
• Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Substitute brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for contrast.
• Mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or mini candies for fun combinations.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let cookies thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft texture.

FAQs

What type of peanut butter should I use?

Creamy commercial peanut butter works best for consistency, but natural peanut butter can be used if it’s well mixed.

Can I make these cookies with brown sugar?

Yes, brown sugar adds a richer flavor and slightly softer texture.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, this basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming no cross-contamination.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is required, but you can chill it for 15–30 minutes if you want thicker cookies.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for a larger batch.

How can I make the cookies softer?

Slightly underbake them and store in an airtight container to maintain a soft texture.

Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The crisscross pattern helps flatten the dense dough and ensures even baking.

Can I add vanilla extract or salt?

Yes, adding ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt enhances the flavor.

What’s the best way to freeze the dough?

Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag.

How long do these cookies last?

They stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can produce outstanding results. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a casual gathering, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Easy to prepare, customizable, and rich in flavor, they’re a timeless addition to any home baker’s collection.

Print