Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that brings the perfect mix of soft and chewy with just a hint of salty peanut flavor. These cookies usually have that unmistakable crisscross pattern on top, making them instantly recognizable and super inviting. Whether you love peanut butter itself or just enjoy a good cookie, these little bites of goodness never fail to satisfy.
I always find that the best part about making peanut butter cookies is how simple and quick they come together. I like to press them gently with a fork for that iconic look, and the smell while baking fills the whole kitchen with warmth. I also appreciate that they use just a few everyday ingredients, making them an easy go-to for when I want a homemade snack fast.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy peanut butter cookies is with a cold glass of milk or a cup of tea in the afternoon. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or packing in a lunchbox when someone needs a little sweet pick-me-up. These cookies have a way of bringing a bit of comfort and happy memories to any day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for smooth cookies. If you prefer a bit of crunch, try chunky peanut butter for extra texture. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a good substitute.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives cookies that classic sweet crunch. You can swap half with brown sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture.
Egg: The egg binds everything together and adds moisture. If you need an egg substitute, flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) works well here.
Baking Soda: This helps cookies rise slightly and spread just the right amount. Don’t skip this; it keeps the texture light and soft.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor. If you don’t have vanilla, a tiny pinch of cinnamon can add a nice twist.
How Do You Get Perfect Crisscross Marks Without Sticking?
The crisscross pattern is a peanut butter cookie classic, and it’s easier than you might think. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a fork dipped in sugar or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Press gently but firmly straight down, then turn the cookie 90 degrees and press again.
- Do this right before baking so the marks stay clear and don’t blend back into the dough.
This simple step gives the cookies their signature look and helps them bake evenly. Plus, it’s fun to do!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat one makes sure cookies bake evenly and don’t spill over.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl – a large one gives you plenty of room to mix the dough thoroughly.
- Spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring the sticky peanut butter dough.
- Fork – used to press the crisscross pattern on each cookie with ease.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool quickly without getting soggy on the bottom.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chocolate chips for a mix of peanut butter and sweet chocolate in every bite.
- Mix in chopped peanuts to boost crunch and amplify the peanut flavor.
- Try half peanut butter and half almond butter for a subtle nutty twist.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to balance sweetness with a salty kick.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, plan for about 20 to 25 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious peanut butter cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt if you’re using it. Stir everything together well until the dough is smooth and all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Shape and Flatten the Cookies:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Take a fork and gently press down each ball to flatten it slightly. Press again in the other direction to create the classic crisscross pattern.
4. Bake and Cool:
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are a light golden brown. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let cookies cool on it for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your peanut butter cookies are ready! Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or your favorite drink. They’re perfect for a quick treat or sharing with friends and family.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Yes, you can! Natural peanut butter works well but may make the dough a bit softer. Chill the dough briefly before baking if it feels too sticky to handle.
How Should I Store Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts?
Absolutely! Mix in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts to the dough before rolling. This adds extra flavor and texture without changing the baking time.
What If I Don’t Have Baking Soda?
Baking soda helps the cookies spread and rise a bit, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it. The texture may be slightly different—more dense and chewy—but still tasty.
