Peanut butter cookies are a timeless delight that blend simplicity with irresistible flavor. If you're a fan of baking or just looking for an easy dessert that's sure to please, then this easy peanut butter cookie recipe is perfect for you. Let's dive into how you can whip up these delicious treats in no time!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Here’s how to make these cookies:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- Form Cookies:
- Scoop out small balls of dough, about a tablespoon in size, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 15 minutes before shaping.
- Make the Pattern:
- Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crosshatch pattern. This not only flattens the cookies but also gives them their classic peanut butter cookie look.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overbake; the edges should just be starting to brown.
- Cool Down:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some delightful variations you can try:
- Chocolate Chip: Add mini chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty treat.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is already gluten-free, but you can enhance it by using almond flour for a different texture.
- Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp of flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp of water).
💡 Note: For a crunchier cookie, bake slightly longer. Ensure not to burn the edges!
The beauty of these peanut butter cookies lies in their simplicity, but don't let that fool you. Each bite offers the rich, comforting flavor of peanut butter, sweetened just right to make them irresistible. They’re perfect for when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the delightful textures and flavors these cookies bring, and remember, baking is as much about creativity as it is about tradition. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with our suggested variations, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use natural peanut butter. However, it tends to be oilier, so you might need to adjust by adding a bit more sugar to help with the texture and consistency of the dough.
How long can these cookies be stored?
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Peanut butter cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
What can I use if I don’t have parchment paper?
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Without parchment paper, you can lightly grease your baking sheet with butter or oil. Alternatively, using a silicone baking mat works just as well.
