Peanut butter cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many, often considered a timeless classic. Whether you’re looking to make a batch for a family gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the best peanut butter cookies, complete with variations, storage tips, and more.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy for added texture)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

  4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  5. Chill the Dough: For best results, chill the dough for at least 1-2 hours. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

  6. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie, dipping the fork in sugar to prevent sticking.

  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

  8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Use Quality Peanut Butter: Stick to a well-known brand of creamy peanut butter (like Skippy or Jif) for the best texture and taste. Natural peanut butter can yield a grittier texture.
  • Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for a few hours helps maintain the cookie shape and prevents excessive spreading.
  • Use Sugar on the Fork: Dipping the fork in sugar before pressing down on the dough will help prevent it from sticking.

Fun Variations

  • Roll in Sugar: Before making the fork marks, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for an extra sweet touch.
  • Add a Hershey’s Kiss: Instead of making the fork pattern, leave the dough in balls and bake as directed. Press a chocolate Hershey’s kiss into the center immediately after removing from the oven.
  • Use Almond Butter: For a nutty twist, substitute peanut butter with almond butter.

Storage and Freezing

  • Storing Baked Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing Baked Cookies: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months.
  • Freezing Cookie Dough: Roll cookie dough into balls, place them on a lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are a beloved treat that can be enjoyed in various forms. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or with a chocolate surprise in the middle, this recipe is versatile and easy to follow. Happy baking!

More Peanut Butter Treats

  • Peanut Butter Buckeyes
  • Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
  • Easy Peanut Butter Fudge
  • Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

Enjoy your baking journey with this delightful peanut butter cookie recipe!

[0] The Hands-Down Best Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe - Simply Recipes

[1] Classic Peanut Butter Cookies - Allrecipes

[2] 29 Peanut Butter Cookie Recipes That Are So Good It’s Nuts - Taste of Home

[3] Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe - How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies

[4] The BEST Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies - Chef Savvy