My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies 😍😋
Soft, Sweet, Buttery Cookies with the Perfect Peanut Butter Bite
Introduction
Is there anything better than the smell of freshly baked peanut butter cookies wafting from the kitchen? This is the cookie that never lets me down. It’s soft but with just the right crisp on the edges, sweet without being too much, and has that perfect nutty flavor that makes you want to reach for another (and another). Whether it’s for a bake sale, after-school snack, or midnight treat, My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies deliver every time.
Why I Love This Recipe
These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy, sweet and salty, classic and craveable. You only need one bowl, no chill time, and a handful of pantry staples. Plus, the sugar fork crisscross on top gives them that signature nostalgic look—and a hint of crunch. They’re simple, reliable, and totally delicious.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Ingredient Tips & Swaps
- Peanut Butter: Creamy gives a smoother texture, while crunchy adds extra bite.
- Butter: Use unsalted for control, or skip the salt if using salted butter.
- Sugar: The brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness—don’t skip it!
- Add-Ins: Try chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or swirl in a little Nutella for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla and mix until fully combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in the sifted flour, baking soda, and salt until the dough is fully mixed and no streaks remain.
4. Shape and Press
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Use a fork dipped in sugar or flour to press a crisscross pattern on each cookie.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look slightly soft.
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added—just stir until combined.
- For perfectly soft cookies, don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Want a fancier look? Sprinkle with sea salt or dip half in melted chocolate.
- Make a double batch and freeze half the dough for future cravings.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are great on their own, but they also pair perfectly with:
- A cold glass of milk or warm chai latte
- Crumbled over ice cream or used in ice cream sandwiches
- Pack them in lunchboxes or serve with a dessert charcuterie board
And if you’re baking for a crowd or planning a sweet treat spread, add these:
- Peanut Butter Brownies for double the peanutty goodness
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies for a colorful touch
- Edible Cookie Dough when you want a spoonful of something sweet without baking
Storage & Leftovers
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
- Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave for 8–10 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
More Sweet Treats You’ll Love
Love cookies and no-fuss desserts? Try these next:
- Brownie Batter Dip – fast and fudgy
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – bite-sized and bold
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – cheerful and chewy
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Cookies are pure comfort in cookie form. They’re nostalgic, easy, and oh-so-delicious—just like the ones Grandma used to make, but maybe even better. Make them once and they’ll become your go-to cookie for any occasion.
Tried the recipe? Tag your sweet creations and let me know how they turned out! And don’t forget to explore more dessert favorites at ChefManiac.com. 🍪🥜✨
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