Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat loved by both kids and adults. Their rich, nutty flavor and chewy texture make them irresistible, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re baking for a school snack, a family gathering, or a simple sweet treat, a well-made peanut butter cookie is always a hit.
This guide will walk you through a step-by-step peanut butter cookie recipe, tips to ensure soft and chewy results, and variations that everyone will enjoy.
Why Peanut Butter Cookies Are Perfect for All Ages
Peanut butter cookies are popular because:
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Simple ingredients: Most recipes require pantry staples like peanut butter, sugar, and eggs.
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Quick to make: From mixing to baking, cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.
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Chewy and satisfying: Perfect texture for both kids’ small hands and adults’ cravings.
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Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
With a few key tips, you can make cookies that are soft, chewy, and full of peanut flavor every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts
Tip: Using a combination of sugars creates cookies that are chewy yet slightly crisp on the edges.
Step-by-Step Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Why it works: Prevents cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars
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In a large bowl, beat softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Tip: Creaming incorporates air for soft, tender cookies.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Common mistake: Adding cold eggs can cause the mixture to separate—use room-temperature eggs.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, combine 1 teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon salt.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
Tip: Avoid overmixing; overworked dough can lead to tough cookies.
5. Add Optional Mix-Ins
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Fold in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra flavor and texture.
Why it works: Adds a fun twist and makes cookies even more delicious.
6. Shape the Cookies
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Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into balls.
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Place them on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
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Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
Tip: Flattening ensures even baking and the classic peanut butter cookie look.
7. Bake
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
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Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tip: Cookies may look soft in the center when removed—they firm up as they cool.
8. Storage
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Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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For longer storage, freeze dough balls or baked cookies.
Tip: A slice of bread in the container can help keep cookies soft longer.
Expert Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
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Use quality peanut butter: Natural peanut butter works, but slightly salted or roasted gives deeper flavor.
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Don’t overbake: Soft centers are achieved by baking until edges are lightly golden.
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Experiment with mix-ins: Chocolate chips, white chocolate, or chopped nuts can elevate the cookies.
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Chill dough if needed: Helps prevent cookies from spreading too much.
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Combine sugars for best texture: Brown sugar adds chewiness; granulated sugar adds crisp edges.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cookies
1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
2. Can I make them without eggs?
Yes. Use a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon seeds + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan alternative.
3. How can I make cookies softer?
Use slightly more brown sugar and slightly underbake for soft, chewy centers.
4. Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chocolate and peanut butter are a classic combination.
5. How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill dough, avoid excessive butter, and flatten cookies before baking.
Variations for Kids and Adults
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Mini Peanut Butter Cookies: Perfect for lunchboxes or small hands.
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Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
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Peanut Butter and Jam Thumbprints: Press a small indent in the center and fill with fruit jam.
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Nutty Cookies: Add chopped peanuts or almond slivers for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Making peanut butter cookies that everyone loves is simple when you follow the right steps. By creaming butter and peanut butter, combining sugars, gently mixing in dry ingredients, and baking to perfection, you can enjoy soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies every time.
These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, after-school snacks, or any time a sweet treat is needed. With optional mix-ins and easy variations, you can make them kid-friendly or sophisticated for adults, ensuring everyone enjoys a delicious homemade treat.