Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies always take me back to a weekend afternoon when I wanted to bake something simple and nostalgic so I opened my pantry and saw a jar of creamy peanut butter calling my name and decided to whip up a batch on a whim. As soon as I pressed the classic criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie, I knew they were going to be just like the ones I loved growing up and when they came out of the oven warm and golden, I couldn’t resist grabbing one right away and savoring that sweet, nutty bite.

Since that day these peanut butter cookies have become my go-to when I need a quick treat that feels like a cozy hug so they’re always a hit with friends and family and I love sharing them with anyone who stops by so I know they’ll bring the same joy to your kitchen too.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient that gives the cookies rich, nutty flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps create that perfect crisp edge.
• Brown sugar – Adds a hint of caramel depth and softness.
• Unsalted butter – Makes the cookies tender and delicious.
• Egg – Binds the dough together and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor beautifully.
• All-purpose flour – The base that gives the cookies their classic structure.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies spread and bake evenly.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut flavor.
• Extra sugar – For sprinkling on top for a pretty finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – To mix the dough in stages.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – Makes creaming the butter, sugars, and peanut butter easy and fluffy.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get every ingredient just right.
• Cookie scoop – For evenly sized cookies.
• Fork – To make the classic criss-cross pattern on top.
• Baking sheets – To bake the cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone mats – To prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the wet ingredients

I start by creaming the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Then I add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Add dry ingredients

I mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring just until everything comes together into a soft dough.

Step 3: Scoop and shape

I use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Then I place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Create the criss-cross pattern

I use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, making a criss-cross pattern that flattens the cookies slightly and gives them their signature look.

Step 5: Sprinkle sugar

I like to sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet, sparkly finish.

Step 6: Bake

I bake the cookies at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers still look a bit soft. I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

Tips

If you want to make them extra special, I recommend using chunky peanut butter for added texture. You can also dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped peanuts for a fun twist. For an even softer cookie, slightly underbake them and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.

Ways to Serve

I love serving peanut butter cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or crumbled over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert. They also make great gifts packaged up in a cute jar or tin for friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze peanut butter cookie dough?

Yes! Scoop and freeze the dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How long do peanut butter cookies stay fresh?

They stay soft and tasty in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these peanut butter cookies a try! They’re such a simple, nostalgic treat that always brings a smile, and I know you’ll love them as much as I do. Please let me know how yours turn out and share your own fun twists below! Don’t forget to save this recipe for whenever that peanut butter craving hits.

Happy Cooking!

Print