Peanut Butter Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Author: Tessa

Published: June 28, 2025

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Peanut Butter Cookies have always held a special place in my heart, evoking warm memories of childhood and simpler times. There’s just something so comforting and undeniably delicious about that classic combination of sweet and salty, all wrapped up in a soft, chewy package. For years, I’ve been perfecting my recipe to achieve that ideal texture – not too crumbly, not too dense, but perfectly tender with every bite.

I remember baking my first batch of these beauties with my grandma, her hands guiding mine as we pressed the fork tines into the dough. That simple act made me fall in love with baking, and these cookies have been a staple in my kitchen ever since. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a piece of culinary history passed down and refined, ensuring that every batch of these Peanut Butter Cookies brings pure joy. Trust me, with over two decades of baking under my belt, I know a good cookie when I taste one, and these are truly exceptional.

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Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

These Peanut Butter Cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re an experience! I’ve spent years tweaking this recipe, and I truly believe it’s the best one out there. You’re going to fall in love with them because:

Effortless to Make: With straightforward instructions and common pantry staples, these cookies come together quickly and easily, perfect for any baker.
Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: The classic flavor profile appeals to everyone, making them perfect for parties, bake sales, or a simple family treat.
Incredibly Versatile: While fantastic on their own, they’re also a great canvas for add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
Perfect Texture: That ideal soft, chewy center with slightly crisp edges is simply irresistible.

The Irresistible Charm of Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies

There’s a special kind of magic in homemade Peanut Butter Cookies that store-bought versions just can’t replicate. The aroma alone, filling your kitchen as they bake, brings back such comforting memories. This recipe captures that nostalgic, wholesome taste we all crave. They’re a universally loved treat, bringing smiles to faces young and old, proving that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most profound.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

Creating truly perfect Peanut Butter Cookies starts with understanding your ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature taste and texture we all love. I always say, you can’t build a great house without good materials, and the same goes for baking! We’re looking for a balance of sweetness, richness, and that distinct peanut butter flavor, all while ensuring our cookies are soft and chewy.

The fats provide richness and moisture, while the sugars contribute to both sweetness and browning. Our leavening agent ensures a soft rise, and of course, the star of the show, the peanut butter, delivers that unmistakable nutty goodness. Quality ingredients truly make a difference in the final product, so choose wisely!

Gathering Your Peanut Butter Cookie Supplies

To make these glorious Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll need: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (and I mean truly softened, not melted!); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed light brown sugar (the brown sugar adds that lovely chewiness); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (don’t skimp here, it’s the star!); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; and 1/2 teaspoon salt. The softened butter is crucial for creaming properly, and creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth, consistent dough. Trust me, these specific forms and measurements are key to cookie perfection!

How to Make Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies

Making delicious Peanut Butter Cookies is surprisingly simple, and I’m going to walk you through each step so you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen! The key is to follow the sequence and pay attention to those little details that make all the difference. We’ll start with preparing your workspace and then move onto mixing and baking. Don’t worry, even if you’re a beginner, these instructions are designed to be foolproof.

I find that having all my ingredients measured out before I begin makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Baking should be fun, not stressful! So, let’s get that oven preheating and get ready to create some magic. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together, and the aroma filling your home will be absolutely divine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Your Best Peanut Butter Cookies

Let’s get down to business! These steps will guide you from raw ingredients to perfectly golden-brown Peanut Butter Cookies, complete with that iconic crosshatch pattern. Remember, patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cooling!

Preparing Your Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper – this is a non-negotiable for easy cleanup and preventing sticking! In a large bowl, cream together your softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is beautifully light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, beat in your eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract. Finally, add the creamy peanut butter and mix until it’s perfectly combined and smooth.

In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Now, gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; overworking the dough can lead to tough Peanut Butter Cookies. A few streaks of flour are fine, they’ll disappear as you form the cookies.

Baking and Cooling Your Peanut Butter Cookies

Once your dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Now for the classic touch: take a fork and gently flatten each ball, making a crosshatch pattern. This isn’t just for looks; it helps the cookies bake evenly!

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers still look a little soft. Remember, they’ll continue to set as they cool. Overbaking is the enemy of a chewy cookie! Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes – maybe 5 or so – before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without breaking.

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Tips for Peanut Butter Cookie Success

Achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth Peanut Butter Cookie is all about a few simple tricks I’ve learned over the years. These aren’t complicated, but they make a world of difference. Think of them as your secret weapons for cookie greatness!

From ensuring the right texture to keeping them fresh, these tips will elevate your baking game and have everyone asking for your recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little once you’ve mastered the basics – that’s where the real fun begins!

Achieving the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

For truly outstanding Peanut Butter Cookies, here’s my golden rule: slightly underbake them. Pull them from the oven when the edges are just set and lightly golden, but the centers still look a little soft. They’ll continue to cook on the hot baking sheet, resulting in that wonderfully chewy texture. Also, make sure your butter is genuinely softened – it creams better with the sugars, creating air pockets for a lighter cookie. And seriously, don’t skip the parchment paper! It prevents sticking, promotes even baking, and makes cleanup a breeze.

Peanut Butter Cookie FAQs

I get a lot of questions about these Peanut Butter Cookies, and I love answering them! It means you’re just as passionate about getting them perfect as I am. Here are some of the most common queries I receive, along with my tried-and-true answers to help you troubleshoot or plan your next batch of deliciousness.

Baking is all about learning, and sometimes a quick answer to a common question can save you a lot of time and effort. So, let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about making and storing these classic Peanut Butter Cookies!

Common Questions About Peanut Butter Cookies

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? You absolutely can! While I prefer creamy for a super smooth texture, crunchy peanut butter will give your Peanut Butter Cookies a delightful extra bite and nutty texture. Just be aware the overall cookie might be a little less uniform. The flavor will still be fantastic!

How long do Peanut Butter Cookies last? When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these delightful Peanut Butter Cookies will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. Though, honestly, they rarely last that long in my house!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cookie dough? Yes, you can! Roll the dough into balls, flatten with a fork, and then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough cookies to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Storing and Serving Your Peanut Butter Cookies

Once your irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies have cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. I always recommend an airtight container – it’s your best friend for preserving that soft, chewy texture. Keep them at room temperature, and they’ll stay wonderful for up to 5 days, though I bet they won’t last that long!

Serving these beauties is a joy. They’re perfect on their own with a glass of cold milk, or as a sweet ending to any meal. Don’t be afraid to warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds; it brings out that fresh-baked aroma and makes them even more decadent!

Enjoying Your Delicious Peanut Butter Cookies

To keep your Peanut Butter Cookies at their best, simply place them in an airtight container once they’ve fully cooled. They’ll maintain their perfect texture and flavor for several days on your countertop. When it comes to serving, these classic treats are incredibly versatile. They’re fantastic alongside a cup of coffee or tea, a tall glass of milk, or even crumbled over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. Enjoy every single bite!

Estimated Nutritional Information

I know many of us like to keep an eye on what we’re eating, even when indulging in a delicious treat like these Peanut Butter Cookies. While these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes, I’ve put together a general guide for you. Each cookie is roughly:

Calories: 180
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Remember, this is an estimate per serving (one cookie). Enjoy these delightful treats in moderation, savoring every single bite!

Share Your Peanut Butter Cookie Creations

Now that you have the recipe for the best Peanut Butter Cookies, I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out for you. Did you add chocolate chips? A sprinkle of sea salt? Rate the recipe, and don’t forget to share your cookie photos on social media. Tag me – I love seeing your baking adventures!