Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a sweet treat, this Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need! With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can bake a batch of soft, chewy cookies that everyone will love. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or gifting, this recipe will become a household favorite!

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies

this recipe

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg –
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, salt, and flour. Stir until smooth and well combined.

• Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.

• Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, forming a crisscross pattern.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tip:

If you can’t wait to bake the cookies, you can enjoy the dough itself! Try making Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough, which is safe to eat raw and offers all the flavor of peanut butter cookies without the wait. This is a great option if you’re craving a sweet treat right away.

If you like your cookies extra chewy, take them out of the oven just a minute earlier. They’ll keep firming up on the baking sheet, giving you that deliciously soft texture you’re longing for.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

While this Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is simple, there are a few key tricks that make a huge difference in the final result.

1. Peanut Butter Choice

The type of peanut butter you use matters. For a smoother dough, opt for creamy peanut butter. If you prefer a little extra crunch in your cookies, chunky peanut butter is your friend. Avoid using natural peanut butter that separates, as it can change the texture of the cookies.

2. Don’t Overmix

After mixing the ingredients, avoid overworking the dough to keep it from becoming too tough. Overworking the dough can result in dense cookies, and no one wants that!

3. Baking Time

Watch the cookies closely as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook. Peanut butter cookies can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly, so watch for golden edges. Remember, they’ll continue to set on the baking sheet after you take them out of the oven.

If you’re looking for a simpler option, you might want to try our Easy 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies for a quick yet equally delicious version of peanut butter cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers make mistakes from time to time. Here are a few common errors to avoid when making peanut butter cookies:

• Overbaking: As mentioned, be cautious of overbaking. Peanut butter cookies are usually softer when they first come out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.
• Wrong Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Too much peanut butter can lead to greasy cookies, while too much sugar can make them overly sweet.
• Skipping the Fork Press: Pressing the cookies with a fork isn’t just for looks — it ensures the cookies bake evenly.
• Skipping the Flour: If you want your cookies to have the right texture and structure, make sure you include flour in the dough. Flour helps hold the cookies together and gives them the perfect consistency.

If you’re interested in exploring more peanut butter cookie variations, check out our Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, which adds a twist to the classic flavor!

FAQ

What makes peanut butter cookies so chewy?

Chewy peanut butter cookies are a result of the right balance of ingredients and careful baking. Using creamy peanut butter and ensuring you don’t overbake will help maintain the soft texture.

Can I use a different type of peanut butter in this recipe?

Feel free to use either creamy or chunky peanut butter, depending on your preference. Both work well, though creamy peanut butter creates a smoother dough, while chunky peanut butter gives a bit of extra texture.

How do I store peanut butter cookies?

Store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make these peanut butter cookies vegan, simply swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based peanut butter.

What’s the best way to freeze peanut butter cookie dough?

To freeze the dough, shape it into balls and arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Why are my peanut butter cookies flat?

Flat cookies often result from using too much peanut butter or not chilling the dough before baking. Make sure to follow the recipe’s measurements and chill the dough if needed.

Can I add chocolate chips to the peanut butter cookie dough?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to make the cookies even more indulgent. Just fold them into the dough after mixing the other ingredients.

What is the origin of peanut butter cookies?

Peanut butter cookies have been around for centuries, but they became popular in the United States in the 1930s, thanks to the rise of peanut butter as a household staple.

Key Takeaways

• This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is simple, quick, and delicious.
• Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth dough, and avoid overmixing the ingredients.
• Always keep an eye on your cookies while baking to avoid overbaking them.
• Don’t hesitate to make these cookies your own by adding ingredients like chocolate chips!

For more baking tips and advice, visit The American Peanut Council for expert insights into peanut butter and its benefits.