Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Irresistible
If you're a peanut butter lover, this easy peanut butter cookie recipe is perfect for you! These classic homemade cookies have a soft, chewy texture with a rich, nutty flavor that melts in your mouth. Whether you're baking for a quick snack, a holiday treat, or just satisfying your sweet cravings, this foolproof recipe guarantees perfect results every time.
In this guide, you'll learn:
✔️ How to make peanut butter cookies from scratch
✔️ Best ingredients for soft & chewy cookies
✔️ Pro tips for the perfect texture
✔️ How to store and freeze peanut butter cookies
So, let’s dive into this easy homemade peanut butter cookie recipe and get baking!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy – Just 10 minutes of prep and minimal ingredients.
✅ No Chilling Required – You can bake right away!
✅ Perfect Texture – Soft, chewy inside with slightly crisp edges.
✅ Kid-Friendly – Simple steps, great for baking with kids.
✅ Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate.
Ingredients for Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
For this easy peanut butter cookie recipe, you only need basic pantry staples:
- 1 egg – Helps bind the dough.
- ¼ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup real butter (softened) – Adds richness and softness.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Creates a chewy texture.
- ¾ cup peanut butter – Use creamy or chunky peanut butter.
- 1 tsp real vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Gives the cookies a crisp outer texture.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
- 1½ tsp baking powder – Creates a light, tender texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until soft and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
2️⃣ Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
3️⃣ Mix in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
1️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
2️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the Dough (Optional, But Recommended!)
- Scoop the cookie dough into balls using a tablespoon or cookie scoop.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
👉 Why chill the dough? This helps the cookies hold their shape and develop a richer flavor.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2️⃣ Arrange the chilled dough balls 1-2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3️⃣ Use a fork to press down each dough ball in a crisscross pattern.
4️⃣ Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
💡 Tip: The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after removal.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve warm or store them for later!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
✔️ Use high-quality peanut butter – Avoid natural peanut butter as it can make the cookies dry.
✔️ Measure ingredients properly – Too much flour makes them dry; too little makes them spread too much.
✔️ Don’t overbake – Remove cookies when they look slightly underbaked for a softer texture.
✔️ Let them cool properly – This prevents them from crumbling.
✔️ Customize with mix-ins – Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a peanut butter drizzle!
How to Store & Freeze Peanut Butter Cookies
Storing at Room Temperature
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cookie Dough
1️⃣ Scoop dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
2️⃣ Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
3️⃣ Bake straight from the freezer, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Freezing Baked Cookies
- Allow cookies to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
FAQs: Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
1. Can I Use Crunchy Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture. Just make sure it's not too oily.
2. Why Do Peanut Butter Cookies Have Fork Marks?
The fork marks help the cookies bake evenly, preventing them from being too dense.
3. Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Yes! Swap regular flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend, and they’ll still turn out great.
4. Can I Make Them Vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) and use vegan butter.
More Easy Cookie Recipes to Try
Love cookies? Here are more delicious homemade cookie recipes you might enjoy:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – Soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate!
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Classic, hearty, and full of warm flavors.
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Cookies – Quick, easy, and perfect for a no-fuss treat.
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Final Thoughts
This easy peanut butter cookie recipe is a must-try for any cookie lover! With a rich, nutty flavor and a soft, chewy texture, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making a batch for family, friends, or a bake sale, these cookies will be a hit.
Now it’s your turn! Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share it with fellow peanut butter lovers!
Happy baking!
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