The Best Peanut Butter Cookies from The Food Charlatan.

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Discover the ultimate peanut butter cookie recipe that is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Harper Reed

Created by

Harper Reed

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:13:15.834Z

These peanut butter cookies are a family favorite, known for their soft texture and rich flavor. Perfect for any occasion!

Why You Will Love These Cookies

  • Irresistibly chewy and soft texture
  • Intense peanut butter flavor in every bite
  • Quick to prepare, perfect for any last-minute cravings

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that evokes nostalgia for many. This recipe captures the essence of that timeless favorite with a perfect balance of sweetness and rich, nutty flavor. The creamy peanut butter melds beautifully with the granulated sugar, creating a delightful harmony that makes each bite memorable. It's the intense peanut butter flavor that truly sets these cookies apart, ensuring that anyone with a love for this ingredient will be thoroughly satisfied.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a spontaneous craving, these cookies are the perfect solution. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and likely to be found in your pantry, making them an accessible choice for bakers of all levels.

Chewy and Soft: The Ideal Texture

One of the standout features of these peanut butter cookies is their irresistibly chewy and soft texture. Achieving this perfect consistency is crucial, and this recipe does just that. The combination of creamy peanut butter and just the right amount of sugar creates a moist cookie that is both tender and satisfying. The use of baking soda also contributes to that delightful rise, giving the cookies a lovely shape while keeping them soft in the center.

When you take a bite, you'll find that they have a wonderfully chewy edge that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior. This texture is not only enjoyable but also makes these cookies ideal for dunking in milk or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee. Whether you prefer them straight from the oven or after a day in the cookie jar, their texture remains a highlight.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to bake can be a challenge. That's why this peanut butter cookie recipe is a game-changer. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have delicious cookies ready to enjoy or share with friends and family. The entire process, from mixing the ingredients to baking, takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute dessert needs.

Even if you're a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The clear instructions guide you through each step, ensuring that you can create perfect cookies without any previous baking experience. So whether you're an experienced baker looking to whip up a quick treat or a beginner wanting to impress, these peanut butter cookies are a reliable choice.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Flatten and Bake

Using a fork, press down on each cookie to create a crisscross pattern. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked peanut butter cookies!

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

To ensure your peanut butter cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider measuring your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve the right balance, especially with the peanut butter and sugar. Additionally, if you prefer a nuttier flavor, opt for crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.

Another tip is to let your cookie dough chill for about 30 minutes before baking. This can enhance the flavors and help the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Just remember to allow extra time for chilling in your baking schedule!

Storage and Freshness

Storing your peanut butter cookies properly is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. Once they have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, although they probably won’t last that long! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them.

To freeze, simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just pull out a few cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Serving Suggestions

Peanut butter cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful twist, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream is truly irresistible and perfect for entertaining guests.

You can also get creative by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for added flavor and texture. These additions can elevate the classic peanut butter cookie to new heights, making it a fun and customizable treat for everyone to enjoy.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I add to the cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of jam for a fun twist!

The Best Peanut Butter Cookies from The Food Charlatan.

Discover the ultimate peanut butter cookie recipe that is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration12 minutes
Overall Time22 minutes

Created by: Harper Reed

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies

  1. 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 egg
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  6. 1/4 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 03

Using a fork, press down on each cookie to create a crisscross pattern. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 9g
  • Protein: 3g