There is something truly magical about a warm, chewy peanut butter cookie fresh from the oven, and this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe captures that magic perfectly. With just the right balance of creamy peanut butter, soft butter, and a hint of vanilla, these cookies deliver a nostalgic yet irresistible treat every time. Whether you prefer them slightly crunchy or soft, this recipe is a fail-safe way to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress anyone lucky enough to get a taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on classic baking staples that come together to create the perfect texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the peanut butter’s rich nuttiness to the brown sugar’s moist depth that makes these cookies so tender.
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): Your star ingredient that brings rich, nutty flavor and moisture to every bite.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Balances the peanut butter’s savoriness and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel undertone and keeps the cookies chewy.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder, providing structure so your cookies hold their shape.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The dry foundation that gives the cookies their classic crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a tender bite.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Works with baking soda for just the right lift and chewiness.
How to Make Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by heating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Having everything ready upfront means a smoother baking experience without any last-minute panics.
Step 2: Cream Together the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This step is crucial because the creaming process introduces air, which makes your cookies soft and tender.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix well until everything blends into a smooth, cohesive batter. The egg will help bind all the ingredients beautifully, while the vanilla will enhance the overall sweetness.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet peanut butter mixture, stirring until the dough forms. The gradual addition helps prevent lumps and promotes even mixing.
Step 5: Shape the Dough Balls
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading. This part is fun because you start seeing the dough take shape into something delicious.
Step 6: Create the Classic Crisscross Pattern
Press down on each dough ball gently with a fork, making a crisscross pattern by first pressing in one direction, then the other. This iconic pattern isn’t just for looks; it also helps flatten the cookie and ensures even baking.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Be careful not to overbake since these cookies stay soft in the center and harden when cooled. Let them cool on the baking sheet a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack for cooling completely.
How to Serve Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra touch of indulgence. Chopped peanuts can also add a delightful crunch and elevate the presentation considerably.
Side Dishes
These peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a grown-up twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple yet irresistible dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift giving, stack the cookies in a clear jar layered with parchment paper and tie with a rustic ribbon. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies together with a generous spread of chocolate or peanut butter frosting to wow your guests with a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll maintain their softness and peanut buttery flavor, making them perfect for quick, satisfying snacks anytime.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe fresh longer, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or resealable bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
For that fresh-out-of-the-oven allure, warm your cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes. This step brings out the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth magic all over again.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds a lovely texture and extra peanut pieces that make the cookies even more interesting to bite into.
Is it necessary to use both baking soda and baking powder?
Yes, the combination helps achieve the right balance of rise and chewiness, ensuring your cookies have the perfect soft but structured texture.
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?
Butter provides flavor and texture that margarine or oil might not fully replicate. For the best taste and consistency, stick with unsalted butter, but margarine can work in a pinch.
How do I prevent these cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can be folded into the dough for a personalized twist on this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the comfort of homemade cookies, and this Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is one you will want to make again and again. Easy to prepare and simply delicious, these cookies bring joy with every bite. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to some peanut butter cookie bliss today!
Print
Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless treat combining creamy and crunchy peanut butter with a perfect balance of sweetness and a tender texture. Easy to make in just over 20 minutes, these cookies feature a classic crisscross fork pattern and bake to golden perfection, making them ideal for any occasion or a simple snack.
Ingredients
Main 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 prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps give the cookies a tender texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly until fully combined. This helps bind the ingredients and adds flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, which could make the cookies tough.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Create Pattern: Flatten each dough ball with a fork by pressing down gently twice to form a crisscross pattern, a classic look for peanut butter cookies.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, helping them set and maintain their shape.
Notes
- For a crunchier cookie, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overbake to keep cookies soft in the middle.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
