These peanut butter cookies are deliciously soft and chewy in the middle. They taste great and are easy to make! With their classic crisscross pattern and perfect peanut butter flavor, these cookies are everything you want in a homemade treat.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it achieves that perfect balance of soft and chewy. The combination of butter and peanut butter provides richness and that unmistakable peanut butter flavor. The brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of molasses. The egg binds everything together. And the baking soda gives them just the right amount of lift.
The Complete Recipe: My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 12-15 minutes | Total Time: 22-25 minutes | Yield: About 24 cookies
Ingredients
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½ cup butter, softened
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½ cup peanut butter
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½ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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1 large egg
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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1¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
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¾ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the sifted flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 5: Shape and Press
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Using a fork dipped in sugar or flour, press down on each ball to create the classic crisscross pattern, flattening slightly.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned. The centers may look slightly soft—that’s perfect.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
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Don’t Overbake: These cookies continue to set as they cool. Take them out when the edges are just lightly browned.
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Room Temperature Ingredients:Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best texture.
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Fork Dipping: Dip the fork in sugar between each cookie to prevent sticking and add a little sparkle.
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Peanut Butter Choice: Regular peanut butter works best—natural peanut butter can make the cookies spread too much.
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Chill the Dough: If the dough seems too soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling.
Delicious Variations
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Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips.
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Peanut Butter Blossoms: Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
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Peanut Butter and Jelly: Make a thumbprint and fill with your favorite jam.
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Nutty Peanut Butter: Add ½ cup of chopped peanuts.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a cold glass of milk
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Pair with a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a sandwich
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Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa
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Pack in lunchboxes for a special treat
Storage
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Conclusion: A Classic for a Reason
These My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. With their soft, chewy centers and perfect peanut butter flavor, they’re a timeless treat that everyone loves.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Make them once, and you’ll understand why they’re my favorite.