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Get ready to whip up a treat that is both simple and fun: Peanut Butter Cookies! This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for bakers of all ages. Imagine the warm, sweet aroma filling your home as these cookies bake. Whether you’re a cookie lover or a kitchen rookie, join me as we dive into the world of these delightful treats, packed with peanut butter goodness!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies can be made in just 20 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat!
- Peanut Butter Heaven: The creamy peanut butter gives these cookies a rich and indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: With options for chocolate chips and crushed peanuts, you can tailor these cookies to your taste.
- Chewy Perfection: Thanks to the baking technique, these cookies come out chewy on the inside and crispy on the edges.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies
List of Essential Ingredients
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
To make peanut butter cookies, you need a few key items. The creamy peanut butter adds that rich flavor we all love. Brown sugar brings deep sweetness, while granulated sugar gives a nice crunch. A large egg binds everything together, making the dough smooth. The vanilla extract adds warmth, and baking soda helps the cookies rise. Finally, a little salt balances the sweetness.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed peanuts for topping
If you want to jazz up your cookies, consider adding chocolate chips. They melt and create gooey pockets of chocolate. Crushed peanuts on top add a lovely crunch. These extras make your cookies even more fun and tasty!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Start by preheating your oven. This step helps your cookies bake evenly. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes for easy cleanup. It also keeps the cookies from sticking.
Mixing Ingredients
– Combine peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
– Beat mixture until fluffy, around 2-3 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. I use an electric mixer at medium speed. Beat the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes. It should look light and fluffy. This adds air, making the cookies soft.
Incorporating Other Ingredients
– Add egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.
– Ensure dough is smooth and creamy.
Next, add the large egg, pure vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until everything is combined. You want the dough to be smooth and creamy. This helps the cookies rise nicely.
Forming and Baking Cookies
– Portion dough onto baking sheet.
– Criss-cross pattern with a fork.
– Bake for 10-12 minutes, cool slightly before transferring.
Now it’s time to shape the cookies. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to make balls of dough. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. To create the classic peanut butter look, press down gently with a fork to make a criss-cross pattern.
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Look for golden edges and soft centers. This slight underbaking ensures a chewy texture. Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cookies
Achieving the Best Texture
To get the best texture in your cookies, remember to underbake them slightly. This means taking them out of the oven when they still look a bit soft in the middle. The edges should be golden brown, while the center should look a little undercooked. This technique gives your cookies that perfect chewy bite that everyone loves.
Using room temperature ingredients is also key. When your peanut butter, egg, and other ingredients are at room temp, they mix better. This helps create a smooth dough without lumps.
Presentation Ideas
To make your cookies look as good as they taste, arrange them on a decorative plate. A nice plate can really boost the appeal of your cookies. Consider adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of flair. This will not only look great but also add a rich, sweet flavor. Pair your cookies with a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat experience!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your egg and peanut butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This will help create a smoother dough and better incorporation of ingredients.
- Don’t Overbake: For the perfect chewy texture, take the cookies out of the oven when the edges are golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding ingredients like oats, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate. This allows you to create a unique flavor profile.
- Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them and reheating as needed.

Variations of Peanut Butter Cookies
Dietary Adjustments
You can easily change this peanut butter cookie recipe to suit different diets.
– Gluten-free options: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These flours work well with peanut butter.
– Vegan substitutions: Swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. For sugar, use coconut sugar or maple syrup.
These changes make the cookies friendly for more diets, while still tasting great.
Flavor Variations
You can add fun twists to your cookies to make them unique. Here are some ideas:
– Adding nuts, dried fruit, or spices: Try chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins add sweetness and chew. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give a warm flavor.
– Experimenting with different types of chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate for a different taste. You can even mix in peanut butter chips for extra richness.
Feel free to play around with these ideas. Each variation can give you a new cookie experience!
Storage Information
Storing Baked Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This prevents air from making them dry. Use a container with a tight seal for the best results. Layer parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking.
Freezing Tips
To freeze cookies, let them cool completely first. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
When you want a cookie, take one out. Let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the same great taste as fresh cookies!
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cookies
How long do homemade peanut butter cookies last?
Homemade peanut butter cookies last about one week at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just remember to let them cool before storing. This helps keep them soft and fresh.
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter. However, it may change the texture. Natural peanut butter has oil that can make cookies more crumbly. You might need to adjust the sugar or add a bit more flour to help. The flavor will be richer and more intense, which some people love!
What can I substitute for eggs in peanut butter cookies?
If you want to skip the eggs, try using flaxseed meal or applesauce. For flaxseed, mix one tablespoon with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. For applesauce, use a quarter cup to replace one egg. Both options keep your cookies moist and tasty.
How can I make my cookies less sweet?
To make your cookies less sweet, reduce the brown sugar by a quarter cup. You can also swap out some sugar for honey or maple syrup. These alternatives add flavor and sweetness without being too overpowering. Adjusting sweetness helps cater to different taste preferences.
You now know how to make delicious peanut butter cookies with ease. The key ingredients create a rich flavor. You can add extras for fun twists. Follow the steps to bake perfectly chewy cookies. Remember, slight underbaking gives the best texture. Store them correctly to keep them fresh. Whether you prefer classic or unique variations, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy these treats, and share them with friends and famil
Peanut Butter Bliss Cookies
Deliciously chewy cookies made with creamy peanut butter and a hint of chocolate.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 120 kcal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra indulgence)
- 0.25 cup crushed peanuts for topping (optional for added crunch)
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is well combined and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the large egg, pure vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth and creamy dough.
If you want to add a chocolatey touch, gently fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out rounded balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
For a classic peanut butter cookie look, take a fork and gently press down on each ball, creating a criss-cross pattern on the top.
If you enjoy a bit more texture, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of each cookie for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers still appear soft and slightly underbaked.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For a chocolatey accent, drizzle melted chocolate over the top and serve with cold milk.
Keyword cookies, dessert, peanut butter
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