Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies

These homemade peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, this classic cookie recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a snack, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Soft & Chewy – Perfect texture with a slightly crisp edge.
• Minimal Ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
• No Chilling Required – Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla, mixing well.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
4. Shape the Cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized dough balls and place on the baking sheet. Press down with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers are still soft.
6. Cool & Enjoy: Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies – Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free 1:1 flour substitute.
• Extra Crunchy – Add chopped peanuts for more texture.
• Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies – Press a chocolate kiss into each cookie after baking.
• Healthier Version – Use natural peanut butter and coconut sugar.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months—bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
• Reheating: Microwave a cookie for 5-10 seconds for a warm, fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but stir it well before using, as the oil can separate.

Why do peanut butter cookies have a crisscross pattern?

Pressing them with a fork helps flatten the dough for even baking.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Absolutely! It adds a great crunch to the cookies.

How do I make them extra soft?

Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar and slightly underbake them.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute.

How do I make them crispier?

Bake for 1-2 extra minutes until golden brown.

Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes! Almond or cashew butter works, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is needed, but chilling for 15 minutes can help prevent spreading.

How do I prevent dry cookies?

Don’t overmix the dough and avoid overbaking.

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes! Skip the baking soda and salt if using self-rising flour.

Conclusion

Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple, delicious, and timeless treat. With their perfect balance of chewiness and peanut butter flavor, these cookies are great for any occasion. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a batch of freshly baked cookies in no time!

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