Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that brings smiles and warms hearts, these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are just the treat! They’re a delightful combination of soft, chewy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a busy weeknight dessert or for family gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, they come together in just one bowl—minimal mess and maximum enjoyment!

What makes these cookies even more special is their freezer-friendly nature. You can make a big batch and save some for later, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand when those cravings strike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-bowl convenience: Say goodbye to the hassle of multiple dishes! This recipe only requires one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and rolling these cookie dough balls is an activity everyone can enjoy together.
• Freezer-friendly: Make extra cookies and store them in the freezer for quick snacks or surprise guests—no one will ever know they were made ahead!
• Irresistible flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter shines through, creating cookies that are soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.
• Customizable treats: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to make them uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These easy Peanut Butter Cookies come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s gather what you need:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies:

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped peanuts or walnuts add extra crunch and flavor to your cookies.
• Experiment with spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters

In a large bowl with an electric mixer (or using a paddle attachment on a stand mixer), beat together the peanut butter and unsalted butter until smooth. This step is crucial because it helps develop the creamy texture that makes these cookies so delightful.

Step 2: Add Sugars

Next, add both types of sugar into the bowl. Beat this mixture on high speed until it becomes light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the dough, which gives your cookies that lovely soft texture once baked.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Now it’s time to crack in those eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat everything together on low speed until well combined. The eggs help bind everything together while adding richness to each bite.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently add in your flour (make sure it’s fluffed and leveled), baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed just until the cookie dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to stay tender!

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies won’t stick while they bake.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Don’t forget to gently press each ball down slightly with a fork—this gives them that classic cookie look while helping them bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake Until Set

Bake your cookies for 8-10 minutes, just until they’ve set but still have a slight glossy sheen in the center. This ensures they’ll be perfectly soft when cooled.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets before transferring them to an airtight container for storage. Trust me; they’re best enjoyed fresh but still delicious after being stored!

With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delightful batch of Easy Peanut Butter Cookies ready to share—or enjoy all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you create the perfect batch of peanut butter cookies every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and better texture in your cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft and chewy texture you desire.
• Chill the dough: If you’re short on time, chilling the dough for even 10-15 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and enhance the flavor.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to your cookie dough for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to keep it balanced so that the peanut butter remains the star!
• Check for doneness carefully: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your cookies. They should look set but still have a slight shine in the center. This ensures they’ll be chewy rather than dry.

How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

These easy peanut butter cookies are delightful on their own, but with a few creative touches, you can elevate their presentation and enjoyment!

Garnishes

• Peanut Butter Drizzle: Melt some additional peanut butter in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s pourable. Drizzle it over each cookie for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Finishing Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving adds a delicious contrast to the sweetness and enhances the peanut flavor.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! Serve your cookies with a cold glass of milk—dairy or plant-based—for a nostalgic treat that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: Pairing these cookies with slices of apple or banana not only adds freshness but also balances out sweetness with natural flavors.
• Yogurt Parfait: Create a simple yogurt parfait by layering yogurt with granola and fresh fruit. The creaminess of yogurt contrasts nicely with the chewiness of your cookies.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors of both beverages complement the nutty notes in your cookies perfectly!

Enjoy every bite and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These easy Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand when the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• Keep at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Layer cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw cookies on the counter for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
• For a warm treat, microwave each cookie for 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious cookies!

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

Using natural peanut butter may alter the texture and consistency of the cookies, resulting in less chewy results. Stick with smooth peanut butter for the best outcome!

How do I know when my Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when they just start to set and have a slight glossy sheen in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

What other variations can I make with Easy Peanut Butter Cookies?

Feel free to get creative! Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even swirl in some jam before baking for a fun twist on this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these easy Peanut Butter Cookies as much as I do! They’re not only simple but also bring back those cozy childhood memories with every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), these cookies are bound to bring smiles. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for some delightful baking magic!