Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Short Description
These classic peanut butter cookies are a simple yet delicious treat made with just a handful of ingredients. With a rich peanut butter flavor and a slightly crisp exterior, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you prefer them chewy or crunchy, this easy recipe delivers homemade goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires only a few pantry staples
- No flour needed, making it a great gluten-free option
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Customizable with add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts
- Perfectly sweet and nutty flavor
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra texture)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a fork to flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on the top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 18-20 cookies
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies – Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a rich chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Peanut Butter Cookies – Add ¼ cup of chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Salted Peanut Butter Cookies – Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty balance.
- Cinnamon Peanut Butter Cookies – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration – Keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing – Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Enjoy cookies at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
How do I make these cookies chewier?
For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies by removing them from the oven at the 10-minute mark and letting them cool on the baking sheet.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but since natural peanut butter has a different consistency, you may need to mix the dough longer to ensure proper binding.
Can I make these cookies without sugar?
You can use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or a low-carb sweetener, but it may slightly alter the texture.
Do I have to use baking soda?
No, but baking soda adds a slight lift and texture to the cookies. You can omit it if you prefer a denser cookie.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.
Why do my cookies crumble?
If your cookies are too crumbly, try adding an extra egg or reducing the baking time slightly. Overbaking can cause dryness.
Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even shredded coconut make great additions.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking?
Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.
How can I make these cookies softer?
For a softer cookie, add an extra egg yolk or slightly reduce the amount of sugar.
Conclusion
These classic peanut butter cookies are an easy and satisfying treat that can be made in just minutes. With their rich peanut butter flavor and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with creative variations, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy peanut butter cookie recipe requires just a few ingredients and delivers soft, chewy, and delicious cookies with a classic crisscross pattern. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, these cookies are quick to make and gluten-free (if using gluten-free peanut butter). Enjoy a warm batch in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra texture)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, and baking soda. Stir until smooth.
- Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Use a fork to flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn slightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Enjoy with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Notes
- For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the cookies.
- If using natural peanut butter, stir it well before measuring.
- Add a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is unsalted.
- For a chocolate twist, mix in chocolate chips or dip in melted chocolate.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
