Peanut Butter Cookies have been a beloved dessert for generations, thanks to their sweet, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, holiday party, or just to enjoy with a glass of milk, these cookies are the ultimate comfort food. With their signature crisscross pattern and perfect balance of softness and chewiness, Peanut Butter Cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Let’s explore how to make the perfect batch of this classic treat!
Why Peanut Butter Cookies Are Always a Hit
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are both affordable and convenient to whip up anytime.
- Quick and Easy: With a straightforward recipe, they’re ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their irresistible flavor makes them a favorite among kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: You can get creative by adding chocolate chips, dipping them in melted chocolate, or even making them gluten-free with minor adjustments.
Ingredients for Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies.
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a smooth, evenly mixed base.
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This helps bind the dough and adds flavor depth.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
6. Create the Iconic Crisscross Pattern
Using a fork, gently press a crisscross pattern onto each dough ball, flattening them slightly. This not only gives the cookies their classic look but also ensures even baking.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
- Use Creamy Peanut Butter: While chunky peanut butter can add texture, creamy peanut butter ensures a smoother dough.
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature egg mix more evenly for better results.
- Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbaking the cookies ensures they stay soft and chewy.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Add chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra flair.
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cookies
Storage:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container.
Freezing:
Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Alternatively, freeze the dough balls and bake them fresh when needed.
Why These Cookies Stand Out
Peanut Butter Cookies aren’t just a snack—they’re a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of baking with family or enjoying a homemade gift. Their simplicity and flavor make them the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an elegant twist.
- Peanut Butter Blossoms: Top each cookie with a chocolate kiss before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless classic for good reason. With their rich, nutty flavor and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a potluck, or just a quiet afternoon treat, these cookies are guaranteed to delight. Try this recipe today and create a batch of joy that everyone will love!
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Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 49 minute
Description
These peanut butter cookies are a classic American treat. With a perfect balance of soft and crunchy texture, their rich peanut flavor melts in your mouth. Easy to make, these cookies are perfect for a snack or for special occasions
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, baking soda, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix well until everything is fully combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
- You can add chocolate chips or chopped pecans for extra flavor.
- Store these cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
