A Timeless Treat for Peanut Butter Lovers
These Peanut Butter Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with that rich, nutty flavor we all love. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Simple to make and absolutely delicious, this is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again!
-Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
½ cup butter, softened
½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, your choice)
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
1¼ cups sifted all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Shape the Dough:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Dip a fork in sugar or flour and press each ball down to flatten slightly, creating a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-Why You’ll Love These Cookies
1. Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry!
2. Perfect Texture: A balance of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers.
3. Customizable: Add chocolate chips, drizzle with melted chocolate, or sprinkle sea salt on top for an elevated treat.
-Pro Tips for Success
1. Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make the cookies tough—mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Chill for Precision: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies keep their shape.
-Delicious Variations
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Peanut Butter Blossoms: Top each cookie with a Hershey’s Kiss immediately after baking.
Nutty Delight: Mix in ½ cup chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
-Serving Suggestions
With Milk: Nothing beats warm peanut butter cookies with a glass of cold milk.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for a fun dessert.
Cookie Crumble Topping: Crush the cookies and use as a topping for yogurt, pudding, or milkshakes.
-FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure to stir it well before using to incorporate the oils, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.
2. How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.
-Nutritional Information
Calories per cookie: 160 kcal
Servings: About 24 cookies
-The Story Behind These Cookies
Peanut butter cookies have been a beloved American classic since the early 1900s. Their signature crisscross pattern was popularized in the 1930s to help the cookies bake evenly. This recipe honors that tradition while delivering the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors.
-Conclusion
Soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter goodness, these cookies are a timeless treat that everyone will love. They’re easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, a bake sale, or just a cozy day at home.
Bake a batch today and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade Peanut Butter Cookies!
