Introduction
Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that evokes nostalgia and warmth. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with a chewy texture makes them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts.
Whether you're enjoying them after school or sharing them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to please. The perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness brings a delightful taste that keeps you reaching for more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This not only gives them that classic look but also helps them bake evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still appear soft. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the oven.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs
What should I do if my cookies are too dry?
If your cookies turn out dry, try reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra egg to increase moisture.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture, making the cookies even more interesting.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Cookies spread too much if the dough is too warm or if there’s too much sugar. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
How can I achieve a thicker cookie?
To make thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking and consider adding a bit more flour.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be aware that natural peanut butter can lead to a different texture, so you might need to adjust the flour.
What if my dough is too thick?
If your dough is too thick to easily scoop, add a tablespoon of milk to help soften it.
How can I make these cookies smaller for bite-sized treats?
You can easily scale down the portion size when scooping the dough; just remember to reduce the baking time slightly.
Can I replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup?
You can substitute part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup, but be mindful of the liquid ratio in the dough.
Conclusion
These irresistibly chewy peanut butter cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With their delightful texture and rich flavor, they are perfect for any occasion.
Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself—either way, you won't be disappointed. Happy baking!
Recipe Card
Irresistibly Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This not only gives them that classic look but also helps them bake evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still appear soft. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the oven.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
