If you’re in need of a quick and simple dessert, these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are your best bet. With no flour and only three staple ingredients, they are not only incredibly easy to make, but also deliver that classic peanut butter cookie flavor we all love.

- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 18 cookies
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Only three pantry staples required.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish in just 15 minutes.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally flourless for those with dietary needs.
- Little Cleanup: Minimal dishes and no mixer necessary.
Ingredients
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the cookies together, giving them structure.
- 1 cup (236g) creamy peanut butter: The main ingredient, providing rich flavor and moisture. Crunchy peanut butter can be used for texture.
- 1 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a slightly crisp edge.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. Line two 18×13-inch baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats—these will prevent sticking and make for an easy cleanup.
Step 2: Beat the Egg
In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork until the yolk and white are just blended. This will help the egg integrate smoothly with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Combine the beaten egg, peanut butter, and granulated sugar in a medium mixing bowl. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it is thoroughly combined, ensuring that there are no streaks of egg or sugar left.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a medium cookie scoop or two spoons, portion the dough into 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 5: Create the Crosshatch Pattern
Lightly grease the bottom of a fork’s prongs (optional) and gently press down on each cookie to flatten slightly. Turn the fork and press again to create the signature crisscross pattern. This step is not just decorative; it also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies one sheet at a time for 10 to 11 minutes, or until they are slightly puffed and the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, but be aware that natural peanut butter is often less stable and might make the dough a bit oily. Be sure to stir the peanut butter well before using.
Can I substitute the sugar for a different sweetener?
You can use brown sugar or a sugar substitute, but these will alter the texture and sweetness. Brown sugar will make the cookies softer, while sugar substitutes may affect the structure.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their texture, it’s best not to refrigerate them.