Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that combine a rich, nutty flavor with a soft and chewy texture. With just a few simple ingredients like peanut butter, sugar, and eggs, these cookies come together quickly and fill your kitchen with the most comforting aroma.
I love making peanut butter cookies because they’re so easy and always bring a smile. One little trick I use is pressing the cookies with a fork in a crisscross pattern before baking—it makes them look just like the ones I had as a kid, and it helps them bake evenly. Plus, that little touch adds a fun texture that’s hard to resist.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon snack, a lunchbox surprise, or a cozy night treat with a glass of cold milk. Whenever I bake a batch, I’m always tempted to keep a few hidden away just for myself. They’re that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: This is the star! Smooth peanut butter gives a classic, creamy texture, while chunky adds a nice crunch. If you’re allergic or prefer another nut, try almond or cashew butter instead. Just pick natural kinds without added sugar for best flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps give these cookies that perfect crunch on the outside. You can swap half the sugar for brown sugar if you want a softer texture and a bit of caramel flavor.
Egg: Eggs bind everything together and add moisture. For an egg-free version, a flax egg or chia egg can work well, but expect a slight change in structure.
Baking Soda: It helps the cookies rise a little and creates a lighter texture. Don’t skip this one, or your cookies could turn out dense.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crisscross Pattern on Peanut Butter Cookies?
Pressing a fork into the cookies makes the classic crisscross design and ensures they bake evenly.
- After rolling dough into balls, use a fork dipped lightly in sugar or flour to avoid sticking.
- Press once down, then turn the fork 90 degrees and press again gently.
- This flattens the cookies so they bake at the same rate and creates the iconic look everyone recognizes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat, rimmed one helps the cookies bake evenly without spreading too much.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to mix all ingredients comfortably.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – for portioning dough evenly, so cookies bake uniform size.
- Fork – to press the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
- Wire rack – lets cookies cool evenly and keeps bottoms from getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet chocolate-peanut butter combo that’s always a hit.
- Mix in chopped peanuts or pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Try creamy almond butter instead of peanut butter for a milder, different nut flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or a little cocoa powder to change up the usual taste.
Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky based on preference)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt (omit if your peanut butter is salted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Add a few minutes for cooling, so plan for about 25 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Mix the Cookie Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients come together into a smooth dough.
3. Shape and Flatten the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls evenly spaced—about 2 inches apart—on your baking sheet. Then, press each ball gently with the back of a fork to flatten slightly and create the signature crisscross pattern.
4. Bake and Cool:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden but the centers remain soft. After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your warm peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite drink for a delicious treat!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter for This Recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well but may make the dough a little oilier. You might need to chill the dough briefly before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
How Should I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Can I Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts to the Dough?
Absolutely! Stir in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to add extra texture and flavor. Fold them in gently after mixing the base dough.
What If I Don’t Have Baking Soda?
While baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly and affects texture, you can omit it. Just expect a denser cookie with a slightly different chewiness.
