Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that’s crunchy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. The rich flavor of peanut butter is the star here, making each bite full of nutty goodness. These cookies have that perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness that keeps you coming back for more.
I love how simple it is to mix up the dough, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. One tip I always follow is to slightly flatten the cookie dough balls with a fork before baking—that’s how you get that signature crisscross pattern and the ideal texture. It’s a small step that really makes a difference!
When I bake peanut butter cookies, I like to share them with friends or family because they’re always a crowd-pleaser. They’re great with a glass of cold milk or even warmed up a bit to enjoy with your morning coffee. These cookies bring a little bit of cozy comfort anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: This is the heart of the cookie. I prefer smooth peanut butter for a creamier texture, but crunchy adds a nice bit of crunch. If you’re allergic or want a twist, try almond or sunflower seed butter instead.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps with the classic crisp-tender texture. You can swap half for brown sugar if you like a softer, chewier cookie with a slight caramel flavor.
Egg: The egg binds everything together and gives some lift. For vegan options, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes) or mashed banana.
Baking Soda: This helps the cookies rise slightly and keep a light texture. Don’t skip it, or the cookies might be dense.
How Do You Get That Classic Crisscross Pattern on Peanut Butter Cookies?
That fork-pressed crisscross pattern does more than look pretty—it also helps flatten the dough so cookies bake evenly.
- Use a fork dipped in sugar or lightly floured so it doesn’t stick to the dough.
- Press gently but firmly on each dough ball to flatten it about half an inch.
- Make one set of parallel lines, then rotate the fork 90 degrees and press again to get the crisscross.
- This step also helps the cookies bake faster and gives them that classic texture.
It might seem small, but I find this simple trick really makes peanut butter cookies look and bake just right every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for even baking and easy to line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps cookies from sticking and helps with cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – roomy enough to mix peanut butter dough without making a mess.
- Fork – essential for making the classic crisscross pattern on top of the cookies.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – helps portion out dough evenly for consistent cookie size.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
- Stir chopped peanuts into the dough for extra crunch and a burst of peanut flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract to give a warm, cozy twist.
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter to try a new nutty taste.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 10–12 minutes baking time. Cooling requires an additional 5 minutes before you can enjoy the cookies, so plan for around 25–30 minutes total.
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 or a silicone baking mat to keep your cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Ingredients for the Dough:
In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt if using. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, well-mixed dough.
3. Scoop and Shape the Cookies:
Use a spoon or your hands to scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
4. Make the Classic Fork Pattern:
Take a fork and gently press down on each dough ball to flatten it slightly. Then press again perpendicular to the first lines to create the signature crisscross pattern. This also helps the cookies bake evenly.
5. Bake and Cool:
Bake in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges look lightly golden. Take the cookies out and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These peanut butter cookies are delicious warm or at room temperature. Serve with a glass of milk, coffee, or your favorite drink for a perfect treat anytime.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Regular Peanut Butter?
Yes! Just be sure to stir natural peanut butter well before measuring, and if it’s more liquidy, you might want to chill the dough briefly to make it easier to handle.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour. Just double-check your baking soda and peanut butter labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
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 bag for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before eating.
Can I Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts?
Definitely! Stir in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a pinch of cinnamon to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.
