Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a soft yet slightly crumbly texture. These cookies are easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and they deliver a satisfying balance of sweetness and saltiness in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, they are a family favorite that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together in minutes.
- Rich and Flavorful – The peanut butter provides a deep, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- Customizable – You can easily add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- Perfect Texture – These cookies have a slightly crispy edge with a soft and chewy center.
- Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for holiday baking, school lunches, or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter, peanut butter, and sugars in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies – Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies – Swap creamy peanut butter for chunky peanut butter.
- Healthier Option – Substitute half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Nutty Delight – Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.
FAQs
How do I keep peanut butter cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly. Stir well before using.
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or applesauce.
Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?
The dough is dense, so the marks help flatten the cookies for even baking.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter works well as a substitute.
How do I make them less sweet?
Reduce the sugar by ¼ cup or use a sugar substitute.
What type of peanut butter works best?
Regular creamy or chunky peanut butter works best for consistency.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, scoop the dough into balls and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes.
Can I add oats to the recipe?
Yes, replace ½ cup of flour with oats for a chewier texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Conclusion
Peanut butter cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that can be enjoyed anytime. Whether you like them classic, with chocolate chips, or with a nutty twist, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Bake a batch today and enjoy the perfect combination of peanut butter flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Print
Peanut Butter Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies have the perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. A simple, classic treat that’s easy to make!
Ingredients
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
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1 large egg
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1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
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Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
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Use a fork to press down and create a crisscross pattern on each cookie.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
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Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
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For extra crunch, use chunky peanut butter or mix in ½ cup chopped peanuts.
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To make them chewier, slightly underbake and let them cool on the baking sheet.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute or make flourless peanut butter cookies by omitting the flour and increasing peanut butter to 1 ¼ cups.
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