Warm, chewy peanut butter cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them so comforting. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night at home. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a batch, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These cookies are fantastic because they come together in just one bowl. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. They are deliciously sweet and satisfying, making them a family favorite. Plus, they bake in just 10-12 minutes. Enjoy warm from the oven or stored for later!
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these cookies is a breeze. You’ll combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, and bake until golden. They require minimal prep and no chilling time, so you can enjoy fresh cookies in no time!
What You Need
Here’s what you need to make delicious peanut butter cookies:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to make your cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in baking soda and salt.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Use a fork to flatten each cookie and create a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies are perfect on their own or with a glass of milk. They also pair well with coffee for a tasty afternoon treat. For special occasions, consider packaging a few as gifts. They make delightful party snacks too!
How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them tightly and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to three months!
Recipe Tips
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
- Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Don’t overbake them; you want soft edges for chewy goodness.
- If dough is too sticky, refrigerate for a few minutes before scooping.
- Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
Variations & Swaps
- Replace peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Try adding oats to create a chewy oat variation.
- For a festive touch, mix in cinnamon or holiday spices.
- You can also create a gluten-free option using a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready. The cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but the baked cookies can be stored.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. You can thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
How should I reheat peanut butter cookies?
To reheat, just pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-8 minutes. This will make them warm and soft again, just like when they were fresh!
What can I substitute for sugar?
You can use brown sugar for a richer flavor or a sugar substitute like coconut sugar. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may change a bit with substitutes.
What if my cookies turn out too hard?
This can happen if they are overbaked or if too much flour is used. Make sure to follow the bake time and tips for proper measuring. Adjusting the baking time a little can lead to perfectly soft cookies.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
- 1 cup sugar You can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in baking soda and salt.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Use a fork to flatten each cookie and create a crisscross pattern on top.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
