Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make these cookies in no time.
- Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty: The peanut butter provides a savory richness while the sugar adds the right amount of sweetness.
- Chewy and Crisp: These cookies have the perfect texture—crispy edges with a chewy center.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and baking soda. If using vanilla extract, add it as well. Mix until smooth.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten the Cookies: Use a fork to make a criss-cross pattern on the top of each cookie, gently pressing down to flatten them.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Makes about 24 cookies.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Make Them Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or substitute with oats to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Add Chopped Peanuts: For extra crunch, fold in chopped peanuts to the dough.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: You can freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply roll them into balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds a bit more texture, which many people enjoy.
Can I make these cookies without an egg?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should have golden edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Try adding raisins, white chocolate chips, or dried cranberries.
Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
These cookies are typically soft in the center with slightly crunchy edges.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a zip-top bag and storing them for up to 3 months.
What kind of peanut butter should I use?
Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. Avoid natural peanut butters that separate.
Can I make these cookies without sugar?
You can use a sugar substitute like stevia, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary.
How do I store leftover cookie dough?
Wrap leftover dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I make these cookies larger?
Yes, you can increase the size, but be sure to bake them longer. Check every 2-3 minutes after the initial baking time.
Conclusion
These classic peanut butter cookies are the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack or serve them at your next gathering, these cookies will never disappoint. Their peanut-buttery goodness, with just the right amount of sweetness, makes them a timeless treat that everyone can enjoy!
Print
Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are the ultimate sweet and savory treat, with a perfect balance of chewy centers and crispy edges. Made with just a few ingredients, they’re quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a family event or a simple snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- Peanut butter – 1 cup
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Egg – 1
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract (optional) – ½ teaspoon
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Mix Ingredients – In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, baking soda, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until smooth.
3️⃣ Shape the Cookies – Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4️⃣ Flatten with a Fork – Gently flatten the dough balls by pressing them with a fork to make a criss-cross pattern.
5️⃣ Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
6️⃣ Cool – Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
✅ Add Chocolate Chips – Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
✅ Make Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free flour blend or substitute oats for a gluten-free version.
✅ Extra Crunch – Fold in chopped peanuts to the dough for added texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
