Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless classic that bring together rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. With their signature crisscross pattern and warm, comforting aroma, these cookies are instantly recognizable and deeply nostalgic. Whether you enjoy them soft and chewy or slightly crisp around the edges, peanut butter cookies deliver big flavor using simple pantry staples.

This recipe is designed to give you perfectly balanced cookies—sweet but not overpowering, tender with just the right amount of crumble, and packed with real peanut butter goodness. They’re perfect for everyday baking, festive cookie trays, or whenever a peanut butter craving strikes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy, reliable, and full of bold peanut butter flavor. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, yet the result tastes bakery-worthy every single time. Plus, the dough comes together quickly, making it ideal for spontaneous baking sessions.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Rich, authentic peanut butter taste
• Soft, chewy centers with lightly crisp edges
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Quick to prepare and bake
• Loved by kids and adults alike

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time (Optional): 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: About 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 160–180 kcal
• Course: Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Cooking Directions

1. Cream butter, peanut butter, and sugars.
2. Add egg and vanilla.
3. Mix in dry ingredients.
4. Shape dough and flatten.
5. Bake until lightly golden.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Peanut Butter:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sugars:
   Add granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla:
   Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Make the Dough:
   Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
7. Shape Cookies:
   Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern on top.
8. Bake:
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and lightly golden.
9. Cool:
   Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a glass of milk
• Pair with coffee or tea
• Spread with chocolate or honey for extra indulgence
• Add to cookie platters or gift boxes

Recipe Tips

• Use creamy peanut butter for smoother texture.
• Avoid natural peanut butter unless well-stirred.
• Do not overbake for soft, chewy cookies.
• Chill dough briefly if cookies spread too much.

Variations

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips.

Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

Press a thumbprint and fill with jam or chocolate spread.

Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Use a gluten-free flour blend or try a flourless version.

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

Sandwich two cookies with chocolate ganache or peanut butter frosting.

Freezing and Storage Time

Storage

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4–5 days.

Freezing

• Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Fork (for crisscross pattern)
• Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cookies are a comforting, classic treat that never goes out of style. This recipe is simple, dependable, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy and quickly become a household favorite.