Peanut Butter Cookies
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the scent of freshly baked Peanut Butter Cookies wafting through the house. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of this classic treat or trying it for the first time, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. With a perfect balance of sweetness and that beloved nutty flavor, this recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delightful world of Peanut Butter Cookies!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Peanut Butter Cookies have earned their place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The creamy peanut butter provides a rich flavor and chewy texture that makes these cookies stand out. Moreover, they are versatile—perfect for dunking in milk, pairing with a cup of coffee, or even enjoying as a quick snack on the go. Cooks rave about how these cookies can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Extra granulated sugar, for rolling cookies in
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement ensures perfect cookies every time.
- Cookie Sheet: A good quality non-stick cookie sheet will help prevent sticking.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming together the butter and sugars.
- Oven Thermometer (optional): To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
From Start to Finish: Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.
Step 7: Roll the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Create the Classic Criss-Cross Pattern
Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie ball to create a criss-cross pattern. This not only looks nice but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful crunch.
- Summer: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-peanut butter combination.
- Fall: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Add crushed candy canes for a festive holiday flavor.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
The beauty of Peanut Butter Cookies lies in their simplicity. Here are a few notes to consider:
- For a more intense peanut flavor, use chunky peanut butter, or add a tablespoon of peanut butter powder to the dry ingredients.
- Adjust the sweetness by swapping some granulated sugar for brown sugar or using a sugar substitute if desired.
- These cookies freeze beautifully! Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you want to prepare your Peanut Butter Cookies in advance, you have a couple of options:
- Dough Storage: You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling and baking.
- Baked Cookie Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer.
Quick Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit runnier, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly for the right consistency.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers will look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit for a twist on the classic recipe.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately and keep an eye on the baking time.
Make It Tonight
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying baking project, these Peanut Butter Cookies are the answer. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can have a warm, fresh batch of cookies ready to enjoy in under an hour. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the delightful aroma fill your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will anyone lucky enough to share these delicious treats with you. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Step 2: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Step 5: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Step 7: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on the cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 8: Press down on each cookie ball with a fork to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Step 9: Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cookies may look underbaked but will firm up as they cool.
- Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a more intense peanut flavor, use chunky peanut butter or add a tablespoon of peanut butter powder.
- Adjust sweetness by swapping some granulated sugar for brown sugar.
- These cookies freeze beautifully! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
