Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that’s all about that rich, nutty flavor and a soft, chewy texture. These cookies usually have that delightful crisscross pattern on top, making them instantly recognizable and pretty fun to make. You get the perfect balance of sweet and salty with every bite, thanks to the peanut butter’s natural taste shining through.
I love making these cookies because the dough is super simple to prepare, and the smell of peanut butter baking fills the whole kitchen with warmth. I often sneak a little piece of dough while baking—it’s like a little reward! Plus, they come together quickly, which makes them great for a last-minute dessert or to bake with kids.
My favorite way to enjoy peanut butter cookies is with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They’re the perfect companion for an afternoon snack or a cozy evening treat. Whenever I bake a batch, they disappear in no time because everyone loves how comforting and satisfying they are.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth dough, but chunky can add a nice crunch if you like texture. Natural peanut butter is great for less sugar, while regular peanut butter will give a sweeter taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps the cookies crisp up a bit, but you can swap half for brown sugar for a chewier, slightly caramel flavor.
Egg: The egg binds everything together and adds moisture. For an egg-free version, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as a substitute.
Baking Soda: This is important to give the cookies a little lift and keep them from being too dense.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisscross Pattern on Peanut Butter Cookies?
The classic fork crisscross marks aren’t just for looks—they also help flatten the cookie so it bakes evenly.
- Use a fork dipped in sugar or lightly greased so the dough doesn’t stick.
- Press down gently but firmly on each dough ball, first in one direction, then turn and press perpendicular to make the pattern.
- If the dough is too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping and pressing.
This step is simple but makes a big difference in texture and appearance!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – A flat surface to bake your cookies evenly without crowding.
- Parchment paper – Stops cookies from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining your ingredients smoothly.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – Helps portion the dough evenly for uniform cookies.
- Fork – For pressing the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
- Wire cooling rack – Lets your cookies cool down evenly without getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chocolate chips – Mix them into the dough for a sweet, melty twist.
- Stir in chopped peanuts – Gives extra crunch and more peanut flavor.
- Try peanut butter and jelly style – Add a small dollop of your favorite jam on top before baking.
- Use almond or cashew butter – Swap peanut butter for a different nutty taste while keeping the same texture.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (preferably natural or unsweetened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional, if peanut butter isn’t salted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 10 to 12 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5 minutes for cooling before enjoying your delicious peanut butter cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Area:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cookie Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt if using. Stir everything well until you have a smooth dough that’s fully combined.
3. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll each into a ball. Place these balls onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Create the Crisscross Pattern:
Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, flattening them slightly and creating the classic crisscross pattern. This also helps the cookies bake evenly.
5. Bake and Cool:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Enjoy!
Now your peanut butter cookies are ready to enjoy! They’re soft, chewy, full of peanut flavor, and perfect with a glass of milk or your favorite drink.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter for This Recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well, but since it’s often thinner and oilier, you might want to chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.
How Should I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft longer, add a slice of bread to the container—the cookies will absorb moisture and stay fresh!
Can I Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts to the Dough?
Absolutely! Stir in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts before baking for extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful not to overload the dough so cookies hold together well.
Is It Possible to Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, since this recipe doesn’t use flour, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free peanut butter and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
