If you’re looking for the pinnacle of soft and chewy peanut butter cookies, this recipe is your answer. It’s all about texture and flavor, delivering thick cookies with a rich peanut butter taste, perfect for any cookie craving.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients make it easy with minimal prep.
- Perfectly balanced sweetness and rich peanut butter flavor.
- No chill time required to deliver soft cookies swiftly.
- Great texture contrasts with a chewy interior and slight exterior crisp.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides moisture and richness. Softer butter aids in better mixing.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and keeps the cookies soft. The molasses in brown sugar enhances chewiness.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor depth. Use pure vanilla for best results.
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of our recipe, delivering that signature peanut butter taste. Crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the cookies. Too much flour can make the cookies dry – measure precisely.
- 3/4 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly, preventing them from being too dense.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookies in, optional): Adds a slight sugary crunch when biting into the cookie.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which is essential for lightening the cookies.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter to the creamed mixture. Beat until completely blended. The smooth consistency is key for even baking and perfect texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Pour in the flour and baking soda. Mix until just incorporated, being careful not to over-mix as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should hold together but remain soft.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Scoop out dough into 1-2 tablespoon portions and roll into balls. If desired, roll in granulated sugar for extra texture. Place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheets. Use a fork to make a criss-cross pattern on top, adding a classic touch. Bake for 7-8 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture to the cookies with bits of peanuts, though it might slightly alter the smoothness of the dough.
Why aren’t my cookies spreading?
These cookies are designed to spread minimally for a thicker result. If they aren’t spreading at all, ensure your butter isn’t too firm, and that your dough isn’t overfloured.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their softness. They can also be frozen for three months.
