Soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut flavor, these Peanut Butter Cookies are a nostalgic treat that always hit the spot. Whether you’re pulling them warm from the oven or sneaking one from the cookie jar the next day, each bite is pure comfort. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick prep, you’ll create cookies that are golden at the edges, tender in the center, and impossible to resist. This recipe celebrates everything we love about classic Peanut Butter Cookies — perfectly sweet, slightly salty, and irresistibly nutty — making them a must-have for family baking sessions and cookie swaps alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few everyday ingredients come together to create something so magical. Each element brings a special something to the mix, creating that iconic cookie taste and texture you crave.
- Peanut Butter: The star ingredient! Use creamy for a smooth, soft cookie or swap in chunky for extra crunch and bites of peanut throughout.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds the sweet touch and helps caramelize the edges for that perfect golden finish.
- Large Egg: Binds everything together and gives your cookies lift and tenderness.
- Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and rounds out all the nutty flavors beautifully.
- Baking Soda: Provides the lift, making your cookies light in the center with crisp edges.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances both the sweetness and the peanut flavor, balancing the whole cookie.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Baking Sheet & Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies lift right off after baking — you’ll thank yourself for this little step when it’s time to clean up!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, combine your peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together with a sturdy spoon or spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and all the ingredients are thoroughly blended. The dough will look glossy and thick, which is exactly what you want.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them gently between your palms into smooth balls. Space them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet — these cookies will spread a bit as they bake, so give them room to grow!
Step 4: Create the Classic Crisscross
Take a fork and gently press down on each ball to flatten it slightly, then turn the fork and press again the other way to form that beloved crisscross pattern. Not only does this make your Peanut Butter Cookies unmistakable, but it also helps them bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges look set and the tops are just turning golden. Keep a close eye near the end since a minute can make the difference between soft and crunchy cookies!
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy
Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes (they’ll still be soft right out of the oven, so this lets them firm up). Then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling — or sneak one warm if you simply can’t wait!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cookies
Garnishes
You can’t go wrong with a simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for added crunch and a burst of flavor. For special occasions, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance — the sweet-salty combo makes Peanut Butter Cookies absolutely irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or creamy hot chocolate for classic comfort. If you’re serving a dessert platter, fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or banana coins alongside the cookies works beautifully — the fruit’s tartness balances out the richness of the nuts.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your cookies in a mason jar with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift, especially during the holidays. Arrange them in layers separated by parchment for a crowd-pleasing cookie box, or tuck a few into a lunchbox with notes for a sweet midday surprise. However you serve them, Peanut Butter Cookies are always welcome.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly soft and delicious for up to five days — though chances are, they’ll vanish much sooner!
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully. Once cooled, layer them between parchment in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough balls, then bake straight from the freezer by adding another minute or two to the bake time.
Reheating
If you love warm cookies, a quick 8–10 seconds in the microwave will make your Peanut Butter Cookies taste just-baked again: the centers go gooey while the edges regain a little crunch.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to stir it really well before measuring, as natural peanut butter can be a little oilier or drier than conventional brands. The cookies may spread slightly more but will still taste fantastic.
Are these Peanut Butter Cookies really gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free because there’s no flour involved. Just double-check that your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you’re baking for someone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Fold up to ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even toffee bits into the dough before scooping. This is a fun way to personalize your Peanut Butter Cookies.
Is chunky peanut butter okay to use?
Yes, and it’s delicious! Chunky peanut butter will give you a bit more texture and crunch in every bite — or toss in a handful of chopped peanuts for extra nuttiness.
What’s the best way to get that neat crisscross pattern?
Dip your fork in a little granulated sugar or water before pressing down on each dough ball. This prevents sticking and leaves behind a crisp, beautiful pattern every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a batch of fresh Peanut Butter Cookies cooling on the counter. They’re quick to whip up, crowd-pleasing, and always spark a bit of nostalgia. Go ahead and give this recipe a try — your kitchen (and everyone in it) will thank you!
Print
Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Cookies are a classic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a simple list of ingredients, they come together quickly for a deliciously sweet and nutty dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Dough:
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
- Form Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on the baking sheet.
- Flatten and Bake: Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a pattern. Bake for 10-12 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, use chunky peanut butter or add chopped peanuts.
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free.
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