5 Easy Peanut Butter Cookie Recipes

Peanut butter cookies, with their delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors, are a timeless treat cherished by many around the world. From home kitchens to professional bakeries, this humble cookie has carved a niche for itself. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the culinary arts, there's always a place for peanut butter cookies. Today, we'll explore five easy peanut butter cookie recipes that require minimal ingredients and preparation, ensuring everyone can enjoy this classic snack.

Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe is the gold standard for peanut butter cookies. The ingredients are simple, yet the flavor is profound:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 ¹⁄₂ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

⚠️ Note: Rolling the dough in granulated sugar before baking gives the cookies a delightful crackle and adds to their crunch.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cookies

Not everyone has the time or inclination to bake, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on the joy of homemade cookies. Here’s a no-bake recipe:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup milk
• ¹⁄₂ cup butter
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups quick-cooking oats

To prepare:

1. In a saucepan, bring the sugar, milk, and butter to a boil. Let it boil for exactly 1 minute.
2. Remove from heat, add peanut butter and vanilla, and stir until smooth.
3. Mix in the oats until thoroughly combined.
4. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper and let cool until set.

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

For those avoiding gluten, here's a simple recipe that skips the flour altogether:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch of salt

To make:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
3. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, place on a baking sheet, and press with a fork.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes.

🌰 Note: You can experiment with different types of peanut butter for varied flavors. Honey-roasted or almond butter are excellent choices for those looking for alternatives.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

Vegan diets can be restrictive, but these cookies prove they don’t have to be:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar
• 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt

Steps to follow:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make your flax egg and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
4. Form into balls, flatten with a fork, and bake for 8-10 minutes.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Adding chocolate chips elevates this simple cookie to a whole new level:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Here's the recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients except chocolate chips until well blended.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, flatten with a fork, and bake for 9-11 minutes.

These recipes prove that peanut butter cookies don't need to be complicated. Each one offers a unique twist on the classic, making them perfect for every palate and dietary restriction. Remember to experiment with the peanut butter type or add-ins to customize your cookies further. With these simple recipes, you're equipped to bake delicious peanut butter cookies that will please anyone who tries them.

🍪 Note: Always let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps in achieving that perfect texture - soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.

Can I use natural peanut butter in these recipes?

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Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it might change the texture slightly due to less oil content. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

How long can I store peanut butter cookies?

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Properly stored in an airtight container, peanut butter cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

Can I freeze the dough for later?

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Definitely! Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of eggs for the vegan recipe?

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Besides flaxseed, you can use other egg substitutes like chia seeds, apple sauce, or mashed banana for binding properties in vegan baking.