If you’re searching for a treat that is both nostalgic and utterly irresistible, Peanut Butter Cookies are the answer. With their tender crumb, sweet-salty balance, and old-fashioned charm, these cookies always hit the spot. Whether you’re baking for a holiday platter, a lunchbox surprise, or simply to satisfy a craving, this recipe captures everything you love about classic Peanut Butter Cookies in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Peanut Butter Cookies is how they rely on just a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the richness of the butter to the signature flavor of peanut butter. Here’s what you’ll need, plus why each one matters:
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery flavor.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The heart of the cookie, providing deep peanut flavor and a soft, chewy bite.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create those beautiful crisp edges.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Brings a hint of molasses, which makes the cookies chewy and gives them a lovely golden color.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds a touch of richness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure so the cookies hold their shape but stay soft inside.
- Baking soda (3/4 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a lightness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter goodness.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your dough is ready. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This little bit of prep ensures your Peanut Butter Cookies bake evenly and release easily every time.
Step 2: Cream Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial: the creaming process incorporates air, making your cookies soft and tender. Don’t rush it—give it a good two to three minutes for best results.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and helps hold the dough together, while the vanilla brings out the best in the peanut butter flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed, so every bite of your Peanut Butter Cookies is just right.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to stir in extras like chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for a twist.
Step 6: Shape and Crisscross
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each one for spreading. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern on the tops—this not only makes them look iconic but helps them bake evenly, too.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Resist the urge to overbake; the centers should still look a bit soft when you take them out. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This short rest helps them set up perfectly.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cookies
Garnishes
For a simple flourish, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the warm cookies to enhance the peanut flavor. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with melted chocolate or dip half of each cookie in chocolate for a pretty (and delicious) finish.
Side Dishes
Peanut Butter Cookies are amazing alongside a tall glass of cold milk, but they also pair beautifully with fresh fruit like apple slices or strawberries. For a party platter, try serving them with other classic cookies for a nostalgic dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack a few cookies and tie them with twine for a charming homemade gift, or sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an unforgettable ice cream sandwich. You can even crumble leftover cookies over yogurt or ice cream for a sweet, crunchy topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your freshly baked Peanut Butter Cookies will keep their wonderful texture for up to five days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep them extra soft, add a slice of bread to the container—the cookies will absorb moisture from the bread and stay deliciously chewy.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the bake time.
Reheating
If you love warm cookies, simply pop a Peanut Butter Cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or warm several on a baking sheet in a low oven (300°F) for 3–5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness and aroma.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add extra texture and little bits of peanuts throughout your cookies. Just keep in mind that the dough will be a bit thicker, but the results are just as delicious.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
If your Peanut Butter Cookies are spreading more than you’d like, try chilling the dough for 20–30 minutes before shaping and baking. Also, make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted when you start mixing.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. The cookies will still be soft and flavorful, so everyone can enjoy them.
Why do Peanut Butter Cookies have a crisscross pattern on top?
The classic fork marks help flatten the dough for even baking and give the cookies their signature look. Plus, it’s a fun step that adds a touch of nostalgia to the process!
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely. This recipe doubles easily, so you can make a big batch for parties, gifting, or just to have extra cookies on hand. Just be sure to bake in batches so the cookies have enough space to spread.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give these Peanut Butter Cookies a try—they’re the kind of treat that brings a smile to any day. Whether you’re baking your first batch or your hundredth, there’s always something special about pulling a tray of these warm, golden cookies from the oven. Enjoy every bite and share them with someone you love!
