Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as comforting as a warm hug, these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are just the thing! They come together in one bowl, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy delicious cookies with your loved ones. There’s something special about the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter, and these cookies deliver that with every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!

What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity and the joy it brings when shared. I can already picture you baking a batch, filling your home with that irresistible aroma, and sharing them with friends or savoring them all by yourself with a glass of milk. Trust me, this will quickly become your go-to cookie recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple: You only need one bowl and a few basic ingredients to whip these up.
• Family favorite: Everyone loves peanut butter cookies, making them a hit at gatherings.
• Freezer-friendly: Bake now and freeze for later; they taste great even after thawing!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
• Quick to make: From prep to oven in just 15 minutes—perfect for those spontaneous cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably have on hand in your kitchen. Gather them up, and let’s get baking!

• 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (240g — not natural)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup sugar (200g)
• 1 cup brown sugar (205g packed)
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all purpose flour (390g)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Variations

This recipe is flexible! Don’t hesitate to play around with it based on what you have or what you love.

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Incorporate nuts: Toss in chopped peanuts or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Make it festive: Add sprinkles to the dough for colorful cookies perfect for celebrations.
• Try different nut butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you want a twist!

How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters

In a large bowl with an electric mixer (a paddle attachment on a stand mixer works best), beat the peanut butter and butter until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates a creamy base that helps incorporate air into your cookies, making them light and chewy.

Step 2: Mix in the Sugars

Add both sugars to the bowl and beat on high speed until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This process not only sweetens the mixture but also adds volume to your dough.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until everything is combined. The eggs help bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients! Gently mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Be careful not to over-mix; you want just enough mixing until the cookie dough comes together.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper. Preparing your baking sheets ahead of time ensures that your cookies will bake evenly without sticking.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Roll the dough into 1 balls and place them about 2 apart on your baking sheets. Press down slightly with a fork—this gives those traditional crisscross marks while helping them spread just right during baking.

Step 7: Bake!

Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are set but still soft in the center (a slight glossy sheen in the very middle is okay). Remove them from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets before transferring them to an airtight container.

And there you have it—your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Baking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Having your butter and eggs at room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother cookie dough with a better texture.

• Measure flour correctly – Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough – Once you combine the flour, mix just until it disappears. Overmixing can develop gluten and make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.

• Chill the dough if necessary – If your kitchen is warm or you find the dough too sticky to handle, chill it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll into balls and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

• Watch baking time closely – Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies at 8 minutes. They should look set but still have a slight gloss in the center when done.

How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

These easy peanut butter cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, there are plenty of ways to present these delicious treats.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzle – A simple drizzle of melted chocolate adds elegance and an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkling some chopped peanuts on top right after baking adds a nice crunch and enhances the peanut flavor in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Glass of cold milk – A classic pairing! The creaminess of milk complements the rich flavors of peanut butter, making every bite even more delightful.

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing side that balances out the sweetness of the cookies. You can include berries, melons, or any seasonal fruits you love.

• Vanilla ice cream – Serve these warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will adore.

• Coffee or tea – Both beverages pair wonderfully with sweet treats. A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea offers a cozy touch to your cookie enjoyment.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up a batch of these easy peanut butter cookies and share them with family and friends! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or to share with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy a warm cookie, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place cookies on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use natural peanut butter for Easy Peanut Butter Cookies?

While it’s best to use smooth commercial peanut butter in this recipe for optimal texture, natural peanut butter can work but may result in a different consistency.

How do I make my Easy Peanut Butter Cookies chewier?

To achieve an extra chewy texture, try slightly underbaking the cookies. Removing them when they still have a glossy sheen will keep them soft and chewy.

Can I replace the butter in Easy Peanut Butter Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread, especially if you’re looking for a vegan option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies! They bring a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them all by yourself, these cookies are sure to warm your heart. Happy baking!