Name: Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484616H42M17S
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened, no-stir is best for consistent texture); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: extra granulated sugar for rolling dough balls

There’s a special kind of joy that comes from biting into a freshly baked peanut butter cookie. It’s soft in the middle, maybe with a little chew, crisp on the edges, and packed with that unmistakable roasted peanut flavor. Whether you grew up eating them after school with a cold glass of milk or discovered them later in life at a cozy coffee shop, there’s no denying their place in the cookie hall of fame.

Peanut butter cookies are a vibe all their own. Unlike chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies, which rely heavily on butter or sugar for personality, peanut butter cookies bring their A-game with one star ingredient. And that ingredient does all the heavy lifting—it adds richness, texture, and flavor. Plus, it gives the cookies that creamy-meets-crumbly mouthfeel that somehow makes them feel both nostalgic and luxurious.

This recipe is a go-to for anyone craving a no-fuss, pantry-friendly, and foolproof cookie that always delivers. No chilling needed, no fancy mixers required. Just a few basic ingredients, one bowl, and a baking sheet. And the results? Oh, they’re bakery-worthy. Whether you like them with a crisp snap or a tender middle that melts away, you’re in control here.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to make the best homemade peanut butter cookies you’ve ever had. These are the kind of cookies that make you want to bake a second batch the moment the first one hits the cooling rack.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

They’re soft, chewy, and rich with peanut butter flavor—the ideal texture in every bite
No chilling required, so you can go from craving to cookie in under 30 minutes
They use basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge
One bowl, one spoon, one baking sheet—super easy cleanup
You can make them extra crisp or a little fudgy just by adjusting the bake time
Customizable: stir in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or a swirl of jam if you’re feeling fancy
Naturally rich and satisfying, so just one or two will totally hit the spot (though we bet you’ll want more)
A total crowd-pleaser—kids love them, adults get nostalgic over them, and they’re safe for lunchboxes (just make sure allergies aren’t an issue)
Easy to double or freeze for later—perfect for meal preppers or holiday bakers
That classic criss-cross fork pattern on top adds just the right old-school charm
You can make them soft-baked or crunchy depending on your baking time preference
They travel well for bake sales, gift tins, and snack packs
A great “starter” recipe for beginner bakers looking for something that feels impressive without the stress
The recipe can be adapted for dairy-free or gluten-free diets with simple swaps
That warm peanutty aroma while they bake? Absolute magic.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened, no-stir is best for consistent texture)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: extra granulated sugar for rolling dough balls

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and perfect browning.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula. Beat until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes.

Step 3
Add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is smooth, creamy, and fully incorporated. You want the batter to look silky and cohesive.

Step 4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be thick but scoopable. Don’t overmix or the cookies may turn out tough.

Step 6
Scoop the dough into 1 to 1 1/2-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each). If you like, roll the balls in granulated sugar for a sweet, crisp exterior.

Step 7
Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press down in a criss-cross pattern on each ball—this helps flatten them slightly and gives that signature peanut butter cookie look.

Step 8
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, depending on your desired texture. For soft cookies, aim closer to 10 minutes. For a crispier edge, go for 12. They’ll look slightly underdone in the center—that’s perfect.

Step 9
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 10
Pour yourself a glass of milk (or a hot cup of tea) and dig in. These cookies are just as good the next day—if they last that long.

Ingredient Background

Peanut butter is the undisputed star of this cookie, and it’s worth giving it a little spotlight. While most people associate peanut butter with lunchbox sandwiches, it’s actually one of the most versatile and flavorful ingredients in baking. Made by grinding roasted peanuts into a paste, peanut butter delivers richness, fat, protein, and a nutty sweetness that creates depth in every bite. For cookies, the best kind to use is smooth, no-stir peanut butter. The natural oil content adds moisture and chew, while the salt enhances sweetness and brings out the full flavor of the dough.

Next up: sugar. This recipe uses both brown sugar and granulated sugar, and there’s a good reason for that combo. Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that complements the roasted peanuts beautifully. It also helps the cookies stay soft and chewy. Granulated sugar, on the other hand, is what gives you those crisp edges and slightly golden tops. Together, they balance each other out and build a cookie that’s just the right kind of sweet with complex flavor throughout.

The butter in this recipe isn’t just a background player—it’s key for richness and texture. Softened butter creamed with sugar creates air pockets that help the cookies rise and give them that melt-in-your-mouth softness. Then there’s flour, leavening agents, and salt—your typical dry ingredients that form the structure of the cookie, help it rise, and keep everything balanced. Finally, vanilla extract adds that warm, mellow undertone that rounds out all the flavors and brings the whole cookie together.

Every ingredient here serves a purpose. When combined, they create a cookie that’s salty-sweet, nutty, soft, and undeniably satisfying.

Technique Tips for Peanut Butter Cookies

Even though peanut butter cookies are considered a beginner-friendly recipe, a few pro-level techniques can really elevate them. First and foremost, don’t overmix the dough. Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir just until the flour disappears. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour and can make the cookies tough instead of tender. You want a dough that holds together but still feels light and pliable—not sticky or stiff.

Another important step is the criss-cross fork pattern, and it’s not just for looks. Peanut butter cookie dough is denser than typical cookie dough due to the peanut butter, and it doesn’t spread as much during baking. Flattening each dough ball slightly helps the cookies bake evenly. The fork marks also create those crispy ridges that toast slightly in the oven, giving you extra texture and flavor in each bite.

Finally, timing is everything. Pull the cookies out of the oven when they still look slightly underbaked in the center. Trust the process—they’ll continue to cook on the hot baking sheet and firm up as they cool. This trick ensures soft, chewy centers instead of overbaked, crumbly cookies. Letting them rest for at least five minutes before moving them also prevents breakage and helps lock in that perfect texture. Want crispier cookies? Just leave them in the oven a minute or two longer.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Peanut butter cookies are a classic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun with how you serve them. For starters, try using a cookie scoop to make uniform, bakery-style cookies. Roll the dough balls in turbinado sugar or coconut sugar instead of regular granulated sugar for a touch of sparkle and crunch. It gives the cookies a golden crust that feels a little fancy without being fussy.

Hosting a party or brunch? Stack your peanut butter cookies in a glass jar or tiered dessert tray for an old-school, homey vibe. You can also use the dough to make cookie sandwiches—just spread a little melted chocolate or marshmallow fluff between two cookies and gently press. It’s like an upscale peanut butter and jelly, minus the jelly.

Feeling creative? Turn the cookies into mini dessert pizzas. Press the dough into mini tart pans or muffin tins to create cookie cups, bake them, and top with a drizzle of chocolate, sliced bananas, or even a dollop of whipped cream. They’re fun, unexpected, and incredibly customizable. You can even dip half the baked cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle crushed peanuts or flaked sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. However you choose to serve them, these cookies adapt beautifully.

Freezing and Storing Peanut Butter Cookies

One of the reasons these cookies are so beloved—besides their flavor, of course—is their fantastic shelf life. At room temperature, peanut butter cookies keep well for about 5–7 days. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay soft and fresh. Add a slice of bread to the container if you really want to lock in moisture—it sounds weird, but it works like magic.

For longer storage, the dough freezes beautifully. After mixing, roll the dough into balls and lay them out on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a tray, flatten slightly with a fork, and bake—add an extra 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Already baked cookies also freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a sealed container or freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just future cravings, these cookies are freezer-friendly in every way.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to enjoy your peanut butter cookies with a bit less sugar or added nutrition? Totally doable, and they’ll still taste amazing. Start with the peanut butter itself. Choose a natural version with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils. It gives you a pure peanut flavor and cuts down on processed ingredients. Just be sure to stir it well before measuring to get a balanced consistency.

To reduce sugar, cut back on both the granulated and brown sugar by 25%. The cookies will be slightly less sweet but still satisfyingly rich. You can also swap out refined sugars for coconut sugar or date sugar, which have a lower glycemic index and bring their own deep, molasses-like flavor.

For an added nutritional boost, use whole wheat flour or a half-and-half blend of whole wheat and all-purpose. It adds fiber and a nuttier taste that pairs really well with the peanut butter. You can also sneak in ground flaxseed or chia seeds—just a tablespoon or two into the dry ingredients for added texture and healthy fats. The result? A slightly heartier cookie that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Peanut butter cookies are a hit for just about any event, but the way you present them can help match the vibe. For a casual get-together or kids’ party, bake a big batch and pile them high on a platter with little cartons of milk or small cups of hot cocoa. They’re easy to grab and universally loved, especially when slightly underbaked for that gooey center.

For more formal gatherings, like baby showers, holiday parties, or afternoon teas, consider dressing the cookies up a bit. Use a small cookie cutter to make perfectly uniform rounds, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top in elegant zigzags. Pair them with fruit skewers, cream cheese dips, or espresso for a grown-up touch that still satisfies the sweet tooth.

Hosting a bake sale or gifting event? Stack the cookies in mason jars or tuck a few into wax paper-lined tins. Add a handwritten tag or label with the recipe name for that homespun charm. You can even tie them up in little bags with ribbon and offer them as party favors. Their classic flavor and beautiful texture make them perfect for both casual and elevated settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Chunky peanut butter adds texture and a nice crunch to the cookies. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the consistency of the dough, making it a bit firmer.

2. Why do peanut butter cookies need the fork criss-cross?
Since the dough is dense, flattening the cookies helps them bake evenly. The pattern also creates extra surface area for a slight crunch and that signature look.

3. Can I use a natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred. Natural peanut butter can separate, and uneven mixing can cause greasy or dry cookies. For best results, use one with a creamy, uniform texture.

4. Do I have to chill the dough?
Nope! This recipe is designed to be scoop-and-bake. But if your dough is very soft or your kitchen is warm, a 15-minute chill can help with handling.

5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to hold the cookies together.

6. How can I make them vegan?
Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to replace the egg. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious.

7. Why did my cookies come out dry?
They may have baked too long or had too much flour. Always measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off—not scooping straight from the bag.

8. Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, and you absolutely should if you’re a fan. Milk, dark, or semi-sweet chips all work beautifully with the peanut butter base.

9. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them extra soft.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. These cookies are perfect for doubling and freezing. Just use a larger bowl and mix in stages so the dough stays even.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply comforting about a batch of homemade peanut butter cookies. They’re simple, unpretentious, and yet completely irresistible. The moment that warm, roasted nutty aroma fills your kitchen, you know you’re about to bite into something special. Whether you like them soft and chewy or crisp and golden, this classic recipe lets you bake your way, with room to customize and make it your own.

These cookies aren’t just treats—they’re little pockets of joy, made from pantry staples and baked with love. They’re the kind of dessert that never goes out of style, always hits the spot, and somehow tastes even better with each bite. And the best part? They’re easy enough to make on a whim and special enough to share with the people you care about most.

So next time the craving strikes, skip the store-bought stuff. Make a batch of these homemade peanut butter cookies. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so downright perfect.