Soft, Chewy & Packed with Flavor!
There’s nothing quite like a classic peanut butter cookie. Soft, chewy, and full of that rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making them for an afternoon snack, a holiday treat, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this easy peanut butter cookie recipe is a must-try!
I love this recipe because it’s simple, uses pantry staples, and comes together in minutes. Plus, that signature crisscross fork pattern gives them that old-fashioned, homemade feel. My family devours these cookies fresh out of the oven, and they also make the perfect lunchbox or coffee-time treat.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make these without flour?
Yes! You can make flourless peanut butter cookies by using 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, and 1 egg—that’s it! They’re just as delicious and naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of texture in your cookies, crunchy peanut butter works great. It adds little peanut bits for extra crunch.
Q: How do I make these cookies softer or crispier?
- For softer cookies: Add an extra egg yolk and reduce baking time slightly.
- For crispier cookies: Bake them a couple of minutes longer and use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar.
Q: Can I freeze peanut butter cookie dough?
Yes! Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Of course! Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even Reese’s Pieces are fantastic mix-ins for peanut butter cookies.
What You Need to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Shape & Press: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet. Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Enjoy! Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
✔ Use room temperature butter – This ensures the cookies are soft and spread evenly.
✔ Chill the dough if needed – If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
✔ Don’t overbake – The cookies may look soft when you take them out, but they firm up as they cool.
✔ For extra peanut butter flavor – Add a handful of chopped peanuts to the dough.
✔ Make them extra special – Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica R. – “These are hands-down the BEST peanut butter cookies I’ve ever made. So soft and chewy!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Mike T. – “Loved them! I used crunchy peanut butter for extra texture, and they turned out perfect.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emily S. – “Super easy recipe. My kids had so much fun making the crisscross pattern with a fork!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 David K. – “I added chocolate chips, and they were amazing. Definitely keeping this recipe in my favorites.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sarah P. – “Made a double batch, and they disappeared in minutes. So good with a glass of milk!”
Printable Recipe
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until combined.
Shape & Press:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet. Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
Bake:
- Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoy!
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! Post it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a fellow peanut butter lover. Homemade cookies always taste better when shared, so spread the sweetness!
