Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat, loved by many for their rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This classic recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an irresistible delight for all ages. Not only are these cookies incredibly delicious, but they are also simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find joy in baking and indulging in these scrumptious cookies.

Ingredients

To make these delectable peanut butter cookies, you’ll need 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, and 1 cup of peanut butter, ensuring a creamy texture. Add to this 1/2 cup each of brown sugar and granulated sugar for that perfect sweetness. Incorporate 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to provide structure, and use a large egg at room temperature for binding. A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, while 3/4 teaspoon of baking powder helps the cookies rise beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the ideal cookie dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature by the time your dough is ready. This is a crucial step to achieve even baking.

Next, sift the flour and baking powder together in a bowl. This process helps to evenly distribute the baking powder, ensuring consistent leavening throughout the dough. It also removes any lumps from the flour, contributing to a smoother texture.

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and both types of sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This creaming process is essential for incorporating air, which helps create a tender cookie. For an added depth of flavor, consider adding 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.

Once the butter and sugar mixture is perfectly creamed, add the peanut butter. Mix until it’s fully incorporated, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well blended.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined, providing a uniform base for the cookies.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Roll the dough into one-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Flatten each dough ball with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern. This not only gives the cookies their classic look but also ensures even baking.

Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and chewy. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial as the cookies continue to firm up while cooling.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for ensuring perfect texture and flavor:

• Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and egg, are at room temperature to mix properly.
• Avoid overbaking by removing the cookies from the oven when they are just set and slightly golden at the edges.

Suggestions for optional add-ins:

• Enhance the cookies by folding in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit.
• For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.

Storage and shelf-life advice:

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze the dough balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

• Yes, but omit any added salt to balance the flavors.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

• Ensure the dough is properly chilled before baking and avoid overcreaming the butter and sugar.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

• Absolutely, shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?

• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar texture and taste.

What to Serve With This Recipe

These peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, enhancing the creamy, nutty flavor. For a more decadent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. Another creative idea is to make dessert sandwiches by spreading Nutella, jam, or marshmallow fluff between two cookies, turning a simple cookie into a gourmet dessert.

Variations and Customizations

If you’re looking to put a unique spin on this classic recipe, there are plenty of variations to explore. Try using almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile. Adding cocoa powder to the dough creates delicious chocolate peanut butter cookies. For a seasonal twist, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which add warmth and complexity to the cookies. These customizations allow you to experiment and create a cookie that’s perfectly suited to your taste preferences.

In summary, these peanut butter cookies are a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor, making them a must-try recipe for any baking enthusiast. The step-by-step instructions and helpful tips ensure that you achieve perfect results every time. We encourage you to try this recipe and share the delicious outcome with friends and family. For more exciting and easy-to-follow recipes, explore other sections of the blog and discover new favorites to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, unsalted, at room temperature (113g)
• 1 cup peanut butter (250g)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed (100g)
• 1/2 cup sugar (100g)
• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (180g)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
• 3/4 tsp baking powder (3g)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Start by sifting together the flour and baking powder, ensuring they are well combined.

In a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. If desired, you can also add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt at this stage.

Incorporate the peanut butter into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully blended.

Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until everything is well incorporated and a dough forms.

Roll the dough into one-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Using a fork, gently flatten each dough ball, creating a criss-cross pattern on top.

Bake the cookies for approximately 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial as the cookies will continue to set and firm up before they can be transferred.