Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

This classic peanut butter cookies recipe captures everything people love about this iconic treat: a deeply nutty flavor, a slightly crisp exterior, and a perfectly soft, chewy center.

These cookies are beloved for their simplicity and flexibility, making them just as ideal for an after-school snack as they are for a holiday cookie platter.

This version covers not only the basics, but also gives you pro techniques, flavor twists, and essential troubleshooting tips for baking the perfect batch—every time.

Ingredients Checklist

Before you begin, set yourself up for success by gathering and measuring all ingredients. Quality and accuracy make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.

• 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter:
  For best results, use shelf-stable creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy). Natural styles may cause excess spreading.

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened:
  Room temperature butter creams better and ensures a uniform, tender crumb.

• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar:
  White sugar helps achieve classic crisp edges.

• ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar:
  Brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for a chewy center.

• 1 large egg, at room temperature:
  Blends more smoothly for even texture.

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract:
  Elevates the nutty, sweet flavor.

• 1¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour:
  Measure with the “spoon & level” method to avoid dense cookies.

• ½ teaspoon baking powder:
  Provides subtle lift and softness.

• ½ teaspoon baking soda:
  Ensures spread and slight chewiness.

• ¼ teaspoon salt:
  Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts (for crunch)

• ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth

• Flaky sea salt for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking peanut butter cookies is straightforward when you understand each phase. Follow these steps for reliable, bakery-quality cookies every time.

• Prep Your Kitchen:
  Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set out all measured ingredients and tools for a smooth workflow.

• Cream the Fats & Sugars:
  In a large bowl, use a hand mixer (or stand mixer with paddle attachment) to cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until pale and fluffy.

• Add Egg and Vanilla:
  Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.

• Combine Dry Ingredients:
  In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures leaveners are evenly distributed.

• Mix Dough:
  Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand just until combined. Overmixing can cause tough cookies.

• Incorporate Optional Add-ins:
  Fold in any extras (chocolate chips, nuts, spices) with a spatula for even distribution.

• Shape the Cookies:
  Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough into 1-inch balls. Arrange on prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.

• Create the Crisscross Pattern:
  Lightly flatten each dough ball with a fork, pressing down in one direction, then again in the opposite direction to form the traditional crisscross. Dip the fork in sugar between cookies to prevent sticking.

• Bake:
  Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Cookies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden but centers still look slightly soft.

• Cool:
  Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents overbaking and soggy bottoms.

Tips for Perfect Results

To elevate your cookies from good to exceptional, keep these strategies in mind throughout the process.

• Ingredient Temperatures Matter:
  Room temperature butter, egg, and peanut butter blend more easily, helping cookies bake evenly and preventing a greasy texture.

• Accuracy Counts:
  Weighing your flour or spooning it into a measuring cup prevents dense or dry cookies.

• Chill for Thicker Cookies:
  For thicker, puffier cookies, chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking. This also intensifies the peanut flavor.

• Watch the Bake Time:
  Remove cookies from the oven while the centers still appear slightly underdone. They will finish setting as they cool.

• Flavor Boosters:
  For a gourmet touch, sprinkle cookies with flaky sea salt immediately after baking. This amplifies the nutty flavor and adds contrast.

• Allergy & Dietary Swaps:
  Substitute with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, or use vegan butter and a flax egg for plant-based baking.

Serving Suggestions

Peanut butter cookies are versatile and can be served in creative ways, whether for everyday snacks or special gatherings.

• With a Beverage:
  Classic pairing with cold milk, hot cocoa, or coffee.

• Ice Cream Sandwiches:
  Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for a crowd-pleasing dessert.

• Cookie Platter:
  Mix with chocolate chip, oatmeal, and sugar cookies for a festive tray.

• Gifting:
  Stack cooled cookies in cellophane bags or cookie tins and tie with ribbon for homemade gifts.

• Decorative Finish:
  Drizzle cooled cookies with melted chocolate or press extra chips or nuts into the tops before baking for a bakery-style look.

Final Thoughts

Baking peanut butter cookies at home is both rewarding and practical. With simple pantry ingredients and a few expert tips, you can create cookies that rival your favorite bakery—every time.

This classic recipe invites personalization, whether you enjoy them plain, with chocolate, or with a hint of spice. Don’t forget to store them properly for lasting freshness, and try making a double batch to freeze for later cravings.

Homemade peanut butter cookies bring warmth and nostalgia to any day, making them a must-bake for all cookie lovers.