Peanut Butter Cookies
Presentation:
Peanut butter cookies are a timeless favorite, celebrated for their delightful combination of rich peanut butter flavor and irresistibly soft, chewy texture. With origins dating back to the 1910s, they quickly won over American households and have remained a cherished treat for over a century. The classic crosshatch pattern on top adds a signature touch, and their enticing aroma as they bake is enough to bring everyone into the kitchen.
What makes peanut butter cookies truly special is their simplicity and versatility. Made with a handful of pantry staples peanut butter, sugar, eggs, and flour these cookies are easy to whip up for any occasion. Whether you prefer them plain, loaded with chocolate chips, or with a sprinkle of sea salt, peanut butter cookies are wonderfully adaptable. They’re the kind of treat that’s as delightful fresh out of the oven as it is enjoyed days later with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Perfect for gatherings, gifts, or solo indulgence, peanut butter cookies are sure to satisfy all kinds of cravings. Their balance of nutty sweetness and soft bite make them an instant comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a die-hard peanut butter fan or just want a taste of a true classic, these cookies promise a little piece of nostalgia and a lot of deliciousness in every bite.
So, next time you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of peanut butter cookies. Each bite brings you a warm, familiar flavor that’s bound to win over hearts and taste buds alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
Here’s what you need to whip up a batch of scrumptious peanut butter cookies. This simple ingredient list brings together pantry staples for a delicious and easy recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | 1 cup | Creamy or chunky |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | |
| Egg | 1 large | |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Adds a hint of sweetness |
| Baking Soda | ½ tsp | For a light, chewy texture |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances the sweetness |
| Brown Sugar (Optional) | 1 cup, packed | For added richness |
Each ingredient brings a unique touch to the cookies, creating a deliciously soft and nutty treat that’s hard to resist.
Nutritional Information:
Peanut butter cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also provide some nutritional benefits thanks to the peanut butter, which is a good source of protein and healthy fats. While these cookies are indulgent, they can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional breakdown of a typical peanut butter cookie to help you make an informed choice:
| Nutrient | Amount per Cookie | % Daily Value (DV)* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal | 9% |
| Total Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g | 8% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | – |
| Cholesterol | 15mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 100mg | 4% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugars | 15g | – |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 20mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 120mg | 3% |
*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
In conclusion, while peanut butter cookies are a tasty treat, they also offer some nutritional benefits, especially with the protein and healthy fats from peanut butter. Enjoying these cookies in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. Whether you’re savoring a few for a sweet snack or sharing them with friends, these peanut butter cookies are a delicious indulgence that satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs.
Essential Tools for Baking Peanut Butter Cookies:
Before you start baking, gathering the right tools will make the process much easier and more efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools you’ll need to make perfect peanut butter cookies:
Large Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients. Choose one that’s spacious enough to comfortably stir and mix the peanut butter, sugar, eggs, and dry ingredients. This will prevent spills and help ensure an even consistency in your dough.
Whisk or Electric Mixer
A whisk is ideal for stirring the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, especially if you’re mixing by hand. However, for a quicker and smoother process, an electric mixer will make the job much easier, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined and evenly mixed.
Spatula
A spatula is perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and ensuring no ingredients are left behind. It’s also helpful for scooping out the dough and transferring it onto the baking sheets without any mess.
Baking Sheets (lined with parchment paper)
Baking sheets are where your cookies will bake. Lining them with parchment paper will make it easy to remove the cookies once they’re baked and help prevent them from sticking to the surface. It also makes cleaning up afterward much simpler.
Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon
A cookie scoop or tablespoon will help you portion the dough evenly. This tool ensures that all the cookies are the same size, which leads to consistent baking. It also reduces the mess of using your hands and gives a more professional look to your cookies.
Fork (for Crisscross Pattern)
The iconic crisscross pattern on peanut butter cookies is made with the tines of a fork. Simply press the fork down on top of each dough ball before baking to create this signature look. It also slightly flattens the cookie, helping them bake evenly.
Wire Rack for Cooling
Once your cookies are baked, they need a cooling space to set. A wire rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from getting soggy and ensuring they cool down evenly. This is the best way to preserve their chewy texture while they finish cooling.
By gathering these essential tools, your peanut butter cookie baking experience will be a smooth and enjoyable process. With the right tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to create perfectly baked peanut butter cookies every time.
Preparation Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (includes baking)
Cooking Time:
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar (if using), egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything together using a whisk or electric mixer until the dough is smooth and well combined.
3. Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. For that classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
4. Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are lightly golden. The centers may look a little soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Peanut Butter Cookies:
One of the most common mistakes when baking peanut butter cookies is overmixing the dough. While it’s important to thoroughly combine your ingredients, overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture we all love. When using an electric mixer or whisk, mix the dough until just combined—this ensures the cookies remain light and tender. Overmixing can also incorporate too much air into the dough, causing the cookies to spread too much during baking. To get the best peanut butter cookies, stop mixing once everything is incorporated.
Another mistake is not properly measuring your ingredients. Especially when it comes to peanut butter cookies, using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the final result. For instance, if you don’t pack the brown sugar properly, it can lead to a less rich flavor, while too much flour could make the cookies dry. Make sure you measure your ingredients accurately, and when using peanut butter, be sure to stir it well before measuring, as the oils can separate from the solids. Following precise measurements ensures your peanut butter cookies come out just as you expect them.
Lastly, many bakers make the mistake of skipping the chilling step. While some cookie recipes allow for immediate baking, peanut butter cookies benefit from resting in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too thin in the oven. Without this step, your peanut butter cookies might end up flatter than desired. So, don’t skip the chill time it’s a crucial part of the process for achieving the perfect texture and shape in your peanut butter cookies.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies:
Nutty Variations
To elevate the flavor and texture of your peanut butter cookies, consider adding a bit more crunch by mixing in some chopped peanuts or chocolate chips into the dough. The chopped peanuts will enhance the nutty flavor of the cookies, making them even more satisfying for peanut butter lovers. Chocolate chips can also add a sweet contrast to the rich, savory taste of the peanut butter, giving your cookies a delightful twist. Simply fold these ingredients into your dough after it’s mixed, ensuring they’re evenly distributed before scooping the dough onto the baking sheet.
Cookie Thickness
If you prefer your peanut butter cookies to be thick and chewy, it’s important to control the thickness of the dough before baking. Instead of pressing the dough down flat with the fork, you can leave the dough balls a little taller. Thicker dough results in a denser, chewier cookie that will hold its shape and texture. Keep in mind that thicker cookies might need a couple of extra minutes in the oven, so check for doneness by lightly pressing on the center of a cookie—it should still feel soft but firm to the touch.
Storage
If you happen to have any leftover peanut butter cookies (which might be rare!), it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This will help retain their soft, chewy texture and prevent them from becoming stale. If you prefer to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy your peanut butter cookies whenever you like, even after they’ve been baked.
Accompaniment:
Peanut butter cookies are an absolute delight on their own, but pairing them with a beverage can elevate the experience even further. The classic choice is a cold glass of milk, which perfectly complements the creamy, nutty flavor of the peanut butter. The milk’s rich texture balances out the slight sweetness of the cookies, creating a delicious contrast that enhances each bite. It’s a timeless combo that’s sure to bring comfort with every dip and bite.
For something a little different, try pairing your peanut butter cookies with a warm cup of chai tea. The aromatic spices in chai, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, bring a warm, exotic twist to the rich, nutty cookies. The spiciness of the tea pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy and inviting flavor combination. Whether it’s a cold winter day or a peaceful afternoon, this pairing will add a special touch to your treat.
If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, a rich cup of hot cocoa is another perfect companion for your peanut butter cookies. The smooth, velvety chocolate flavor complements the cookies’ nutty taste, creating a decadent combination that’s irresistible. Whether topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, the hot cocoa adds a layer of richness that pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the peanut butter cookies. It’s the ultimate way to indulge in a sweet treat.
Conclusion:
Peanut butter cookies are the perfect treat for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, you can have a batch ready in no time. The result is a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, peanut butter cookies are always a hit. Their soft, chewy texture and nutty flavor make them universally loved. You can even customize them with different mix-ins to suit your taste.
The beauty of peanut butter cookies lies in their versatility. You can serve them with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of cocoa, or even enjoy them on their own. These cookies are sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite.
So why wait? Grab your peanut butter, preheat the oven, and get baking! These homemade peanut butter cookies will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and offer a delightful treat that’s both easy and delicious. Happy baking.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use a fork to flatten each ball slightly, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy your classic Peanut Butter Cookies!
Notes
FAQ:
Is peanut butter good for health?
Peanut butter is a nutritious food when consumed in moderation. It contains healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium. The key is to choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils. Peanut butter cookies made with wholesome peanut butter are not only delicious but also provide a good source of energy and nutrients.
How often is it OK to eat peanut butter?
It’s perfectly fine to enjoy peanut butter in moderation, about 1 to 2 tablespoons per day. It provides healthy fats and protein but can be high in calories. When you’re making peanut butter cookies, keep portion sizes in mind to maintain a balanced diet while indulging in your favorite treat.
How is peanut butter made step by step?
Peanut butter is made by roasting peanuts and then grinding them into a smooth paste. The peanuts are first roasted to enhance their flavor, then cooled before being ground to release their oils. The result is a creamy or chunky peanut butter that can be used in a variety of recipes, including delicious peanut butter cookies.
What is peanut butter best for?
Peanut butter is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways, from spreading on toast to adding depth to savory dishes like satay. It’s also perfect for baking, making it the key ingredient in peanut butter cookies. Its rich, nutty flavor enhances both sweet and savory recipes, making it a kitchen staple.
Is peanut butter healthy or junk?
Peanut butter can be healthy, especially when it’s made with minimal ingredients like roasted peanuts and salt. It provides a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. However, processed versions with added sugars and oils may be considered junk food. For the healthiest peanut butter cookies, opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
How much peanut butter can I eat a day?
It’s recommended to eat no more than 1 to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter per day. This portion offers a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and healthy fats without overdoing the calories. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or in peanut butter cookies, keeping the portions reasonable ensures you reap the benefits without excess.
When not to eat peanut butter?
If you have a peanut allergy, you should avoid eating peanut butter entirely, including in peanut butter cookies. Additionally, if you’re watching your calorie intake or trying to reduce fat consumption, eating peanut butter in moderation is important. Opt for small amounts to avoid excess calories and ensure a balanced diet.