If you’re craving a dessert that’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious, nothing beats classic peanut butter cookies. These cookies melt in your mouth with every bite, offering a perfect balance of sweet and salty. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will soon become your go-to treat.
What Are the Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies?
To make the best 18 peanut butter cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup (250g) processed peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: M&Ms, chocolate chunks, or chopped nuts for added texture.
Ingredient Tips
- Use processed peanut butter like Skippy or Jif for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the butter is soft but not melted for a creamy dough.
- Combine brown and granulated sugar for balanced sweetness and controlled spread.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cookies
Here’s how to bake cookies that are perfectly soft, flavorful, and irresistible:
First of all Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake as soon as your dough is prepared.
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This step ensures even distribution and lump-free dough.
2. Cream Butter, Sugar, and Peanut Butter
- Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Proper creaming traps air, giving your cookies a soft texture, then add peanut butter and mix until incorporated.
3. Add Egg, and Vanilla
- Incorporate the egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, scraping down the sides for an even blend.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed to avoid overmixing, which can make cookies tough.
5. Shape
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
6. Flatten and Bake
- Flatten each ball with a fork to create the classic cross-hatch pattern. Then bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Know When Peanut Butter Cookies Are Done
The key to perfectly baked peanut butter cookie lies in timing and appearance:
- The cookies should have a light golden edge while the center remains soft.
- Look for slight cracks on the surface; this indicates they’re cooked through.
- If in doubt, gently press the center with a fingertip—it should feel set but not hard.
Remember, cookies continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet!
Pro Tips for Baking the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
Want to take your cookies to the next level? Keep these tips in mind:
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision. If using measuring cups, fluff the flour before scooping to avoid adding too much.
- Taste Your Peanut Butter: Adjust the salt based on its flavor. If it’s unsalted, add a pinch of salt to the dough.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the flour disappears to keep the cookies tender.
- Use Add-Ins Creatively: Try chocolate chunks, sprinkles, or even peanut butter cups for a fun twist.
Variations of Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies are a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some delicious variations:
- Stuffed Cookies: Add a piece of chocolate or caramel in the center of each cookie before baking.
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies: Add a dollop of jelly in the center after baking.
- Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Once baked, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg.
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cookies
To enjoy your cookies for days (or weeks), follow these storage tips:
- Storing: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing Dough: Roll and flatten the dough, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Baking from Frozen: Add 2–3 extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Info and Healthier Options
Traditional peanut butter cookies are indulgent, but you can make them lighter with these swaps:
- Replace some flour with almond or oat flour for added nutrition.
- Use natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey.
- Swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cookies
Why are my peanut butter cookies dry?
This usually happens when you overmix the dough or add too much flour. Always measure accurately and mix just until combined.
Can I make peanut butter cookies without eggs?
Yes! Use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
What’s the best peanut butter for baking?
Processed peanut butter like Skippy or Jif is ideal because it’s smooth and emulsified, ensuring consistent results.
How do I make softer cookies?
- Add a bit more brown sugar for moisture.
- Don’t overbake! Remove cookies when edges are just set.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Freeze pre-scooped dough on a baking sheet, then store it in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen for fresh cookies anytime.
Peanut butter cookies are the ultimate treat for any occasion. With this easy recipe and helpful tips, you’re just minutes away from baking the perfect batch. Experiment with fun add-ins, or enjoy them in their classic form—either way, they’ll melt in your mouth and leave you craving more.
Get baking today, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!