Ultimate Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Are you craving something deliciously sweet and satisfyingly nutty? Look no further than this easy Peanut butter cookies recipe! These homemade Peanut butter cookies from scratch are a delightful treat that evokes warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. Originating from the early 1900s, with the first known recipes appearing in the 1930s, peanut butter cookies quickly gained popularity partly due to the accessibility of peanut butter as a pantry staple. These cookies are not just easy to whip up; they also boast a rich, satisfying flavor that combines buttery softness with that signature peanut butter nuttiness, perfect for cookie enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you prefer them chewy or crispy, this recipe is customizable to fit your taste!

In this post, we’ll walk through each step, complete with tips and variations, to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time. So grab your apron and let’s get baking! The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cook time of 10 minutes, totaling just 25 minutes of your time. This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies—perfect for snacking or sharing.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

• For a vegan version, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Opt for brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
• If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia.

Equipment List

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Baking sheet or cookie sheet
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and perfectly golden.
2. Combine wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the mixture thoroughly until it is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add dry ingredients: Next, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of baking soda and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gently fold the mixture using your spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be pliable and not sticky.
4. Shape your cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
5. Create the classic crisscross pattern: Take a fork and press it onto each ball of dough, making a crisscross pattern on the top. This is not only a signature look for peanut butter cookies but also helps them bake evenly.
6. Bake to perfection: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. For chewy cookies, aim for the shorter baking time, while 10 minutes will yield a slightly crispier result.
7. Cool the cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This lets them firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. 

Special Notes

• Storing: To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag!
• Reheating: Warm your cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.
• Troubleshooting: If the dough feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water or milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Vegan: As mentioned earlier, replace the egg with a flax egg. Ensure the peanut butter is vegan-friendly, with no added honey.
• Add-ins: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to give your cookies an extra twist in flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Estimated nutritional breakdown is as follows:

• Calories: 96
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you whip up these cookies, notice the golden brown edges as they come out of the oven—it’s an invitation to indulge! Imagine the warm, nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it hard to resist the temptation to sneak a cookie while they cool. When you bite into one, you’ll experience a delightful crunch on the outside, giving way to a soft, chewy center loaded with that creamy peanut butter flavor. The texture is comforting and satisfying, a true classic!

Consider adding images or videos at each step—especially when combining the ingredients and forming the cookie dough—so your readers can enjoy a visual reference.

Conclusion

Now that you have unlocked the secrets to making the ultimate peanut butter cookies, it’s time to dive in and experience the joy of baking! These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a quick snack, wanting to impress your friends at a gathering, or simply indulging your sweet tooth after dinner. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! We would love to see your creations, so share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish!