If you are on the hunt for a truly soul-satisfying treat, look no further than this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of rich, nutty peanut butter with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of vanilla to keep things interesting. These cookies are soft yet slightly crisp on the edges, delivering that nostalgic homemade vibe with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe is a delicious way to keep your kitchen smelling amazing and your friends asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor in your Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. From creamy peanut butter to a blend of sugars, these staples combine to create that dreamy cookie foundation you can’t resist.
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): The star ingredient that gives the cookies their rich, nutty flavor and moist texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: For just the right sweetness and a subtle crunch on the surface.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings moisture and a deep, caramel-like richness to the cookies.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together, ensuring the dough holds its shape while baking.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure, making these cookies perfectly chewy and soft.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to create that ideal cookie lift without puffiness.
How to Make Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature by the time your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mix, making your cookies light, fluffy, and irresistibly tender.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring the vanilla flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough for a subtle and pleasing aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and prevents any clumps from forming, which helps in creating an even texture.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies tender and soft rather than tough.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the dough into one-tablespoon-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Then, use the back of a fork to gently flatten each ball and create that iconic crisscross pattern that’s as charming as it is tasty.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. This timing ensures a soft center with a slightly crisp exterior. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delightful on their own, you can sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before baking for a sophisticated salty-sweet twist. For a bit of color and texture, rolling the dough balls in crushed roasted peanuts before flattening adds an extra crunch.
Side Dishes
Peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, whether dairy or plant-based. For grown-up gatherings, try serving them alongside coffee or a creamy latte to balance the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate this treat to dessert status in no time.
Creative Ways to Present
You can stack these cookies with a layer of chocolate ganache or peanut butter frosting in between to make impressive cookie sandwiches. Alternatively, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a glossy finish and an extra flavor dimension. Present them on a rustic wooden board or in a colorful tin for charming gifting ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their soft texture and prevents them from becoming stale or too hard.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls ahead of time for up to three months. Simply place them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time without thawing first.
Reheating
To refresh leftover cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth and softness. Be careful not to overheat as it can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a little extra texture and nuttiness to the cookies, making every bite interesting. Just be mindful that it might create a slightly coarser dough.
What if I don’t have baking powder, can I skip it?
While baking powder helps with the rise and tenderness, you can use just baking soda if needed. Your cookies might be a bit denser but still delicious.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe without gluten. Just keep an eye on the dough’s consistency and adjust as necessary.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps keep the shape intact for thicker cookies.
Can I add extras like chocolate chips or nuts?
Of course! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can personalize these cookies and add unique flavors and textures. Just fold them into the dough before scooping.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe a try because it’s one of those timeless treats that welcomes everyone with open arms. From the first sweet, nutty bite to the warm aroma filling your kitchen, these cookies have a way of making everyday moments special. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share these delightful bites with the people you love!
Print
Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These favorite peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Perfectly sweetened with a blend of granulated and brown sugars, these cookies feature a classic crisscross fork pattern and a tender texture that melts in your mouth. Ideal for peanut butter lovers looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing homemade treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick during baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the peanut butter mixture, mixing thoroughly until everything is well combined for a uniform dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a consistent dough forms, free of dry flour patches.
- Form Cookies: Scoop the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for baking.
- Create Crisscross Pattern: Use the back of a fork to gently flatten each dough ball, pressing down to create the classic crisscross pattern characteristic of peanut butter cookies.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, indicating they are perfectly cooked but still soft inside.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake by a minute or two.
- You can use either creamy or crunchy peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
